The Woodlands

The Woodlands is a sizable township that is sought after for its abundance of green spaces and a plethora of upscale retail and dining options. Though not a city or even a traditional township, it’s one of the best places to live in the Houston Metro area.

Located in the southern portion of Montgomery County, The Woodlands began as a master-planned community in 1974. Over time, individual villages and enclaves sprang up as the community grew. It eventually became a special purpose district in 1993, courtesy of the 73rd Texas Legislature.

Home prices in The Woodlands go within a range between $300,000 and $13 million. The housing stock here is composed of single-family homes, condos, and townhomes, with several properties sitting on generous lots with plenty of lawn space.

WHAT YOU’LL LOVE

• Family-friendly amenities and attractions. Check out the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, an expansive outdoor space for live performances and various events. Meanwhile, The Woodlands Children’s Museum is a great spot to cultivate youngsters’ curiosity.

• Lush greenery. There’s no shortage of tree cover in The Woodlands. In fact, even during its early development, the area’s planners already made sure to preserve about 25% of the wooded areas.

• World-class country clubs. Whether you’re an avid golfer or not, you’ll enjoy the pampering and classy dining that the area’s finest public and private clubs offer. The Woodlands Country Club is home to a whopping 99 holes of championship-caliber golf. The Jack Nicklaus-designed The Club at Carlton Woods, for its part, exudes elegance and sophistication.

• Trendy retail and commercial areas. It’s easy to get in the mood for retail therapy and upscale dining in The Woodlands. From The Woodlands Mall to Market Street, you’ll find a vast array of luxury shops, local boutiques, and top-notch restaurants in the area.