Houston - West University

Housing Market

As one of the top ten wealthiest cities in the state of Texas, West University Place--also known as West U or West University is a bedroom community of just over 18,000 people. Most of the cottages which originally made up the housing in the city have been torn down and replaced with larger two-story houses occupied by middle and upper income families. The demographics of the housing market is unusual, since sixty to eighty year old bungalows worth little more than the value of the land they occupy sit side by side with $2 million mansions. This eclectic mix means that good real estate bargains can be found.

Things to Do

Six city parks are located within the confines of West University Place.  The Community Building, Liberty Hall and West University Place Recreation Center are part of the community resources. In addition, all the facilities of the larger metropolitan area of "Houston Midtown - Houston Downtown - Houston Medical Center" are available to West University Place residents, thanks to the Metropolitan Transport System (METRO). Because of the close proximity of Rice University, West University Place residents have access to all the University sports and activities as well as the cultural events. Professional sports teams in Houston abound, including football, basketball, soccer, tennis, hockey and baseball.  Fans can attend major sports events throughout the year.  If you prefer more cultural events, you can attend the theater or the symphony.

Nightlife

The opportunities for getting out and enjoying the night with friends are almost unlimited.  You can dance at the dance clubs and bars, sing with the Karaoke contests, listen to live music including rock, country-western, or jazz. You can get Irish brew, beer, wine or cocktails, depending upon the establishment you choose.  The proximity to Houston makes an even wider selection of places where you and friends can go to play pool, dance, drink and listen to great music. 

Restaurants

Restaurants in West University Place and neighboring Houston are known for their variety and for the quality of the meals served.  Service is first rate.  You can try the many ethnic sites such as Asian, Cajun, French, Indian, Italian, Mexican, Mediterranean, and Southwestern.  Specialty foods such as vegetarian, wild game and barbecue restaurants are within easy driving distance of West University Place. No matter what your food preferences are, you can find it close to West University Place.  You can even enjoy a restaurant with live entertainment along with your meal.

Shopping

Because West University is home to many middle and high income families, the available shopping tends to be high end for both quality and variety.  How about several businesses devoted to quality footwear?  Would you prefer curios or art?  The Village Shopping Center is just one of the nearby retail therapy sites. The Rice Village Is known because of its proximity to Rice University campus. Its high end establishments offer everything from food to jewelry to sports wear.  Stores include a range from Banana Republic to the music outlet Ovations.