West University

 

Close to Rice University, West U feels like a small town that happens to be surrounded by one of the largest cities in the country. In 1939, residents resisted attempts to be absorbed into the city of Houston and the municipality has happily maintained its independence ever since.

 

The neighborhood known as West U offers two square miles of lowkey, but high end, living inside the 610 Loop. The first lots went on the market in 1917, and this affluent, autonomous suburb consistently lands on national best places to live lists.

 

 

Thanks to its history of zoning codes and private police and fire departments, West U prides itself on providing residents with covetable quality-of-life amenities. Top-ranked West University Elementary School is a particularly popular draw. And though mostly residential, the neighborhood has a good number of shops and eateries on convenient corners.

 

 

West U families take advantage of the swimming pool and many programs at the local rec center, and the neighborhood boasts one of the largest little leagues in the country. Friends and neighbors, who often volunteer together, catch up at popular hangouts like Tiny’s No. 5 and Little Matt’s or at the open-air Rice Village mall.

 

 

Tucked into West University’s orderly grid are charming pocket parks like Colonial Park, which has a popular neighborhood pool, and Friends Park, which has brick-lined walkways and a striking clock tower.

 

 

Forties-era, split level brick bungalows bordering parks. Traditional stucco stunners that have gone up in recent years. Farmhouse style homes with inviting porches. In West U, the homes tend to be unique and unfailingly endearing.

 

 

Rich in recreational resources, solid schools, and kid-friendly hot spots (not to mention next door to Houston’s vaunted Museum District), West U has long been considered an ideal place to raise a family, making it a smart investment for homeowners.