Are you thinking of moving to Kingwood TX? Kingwood is a Houston suburb that is on Lake Houston- giving residents the opportunity to live the lake life while still being near Houston. In this article, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of living in Kingwood.
Pros of Living in Kingwood, Texas
1. Master Planned Community
One of the pros of living in Kingwood is that it is a master-planned community. As a master-planned community, Kingwood features carefully designed neighborhoods, green spaces, and convenient access to shopping centers, including a picturesque waterfront shopping area along Lake Houston.
Residents enjoy many amenities, including community pools, parks, and recreational areas.
For those seeking a country club lifestyle, The Clubs of Kingwood is a standout feature, with five 18-hole golf courses suitable for golf enthusiasts of all levels. This family-friendly country club also offers a water park, Kids Club, and numerous social events
2. New Construction
If you’re in the market for a new construction home, then you should consider Kingwood. Kingwood is a master-planned community that has not been fully built out yet. Unlike older master-planned communities, such as The Woodlands, you can still buy new construction homes at Kingwood.
3. Affordable
Kingwood stands out as an affordable Houston suburb with a median home price of $349,000. This affordability can be especially appealing to individuals and families looking to buy their first home without breaking the bank.
4. Lake Life
Kingwood offers a unique opportunity for residents to enjoy the lake life while still being close to Houston. Lake Houston, spanning over 12,000 acres, is the central attraction of Kingwood. It caters to water enthusiasts with activities like boating, kayaking, jet-skiing, and fishing. The lake’s vast expanse provides ample space for cruising, and fishing enthusiasts can expect to find various freshwater fish species.
5. Natural Beauty
One of Kingwood’s standout features is its picturesque natural surroundings. The community is nestled in a lush, wooded area with several parks and green spaces, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Referred to as the “Livable Forest,” Kingwood offers over 75 miles of nature trails, ideal for jogging, biking, or leisurely walks. This suburb embraces its natural surroundings, allowing residents to immerse themselves in nature right in their backyard.
6. Excellent Schools
Kingwood is home to some of the best public schools in the Houston area. Kingwood High School, part of the Humble Independent School District (Humble ISD), consistently ranks among the top schools in Texas. Niche.com ranks Humble ISD as the #4 Best School District in Harris County.
7. Convenient Location
Located just 28 miles north of downtown Houston. Kingwood’s location is perfect for those seeking lake life but still want to be near Houston.
Kingwood’s proximity to downtown Houston and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) makes it an ideal place for commuters. Easy access to major highways like I-69 ensures a relatively painless daily commute.
8. No State Income Tax
One of the significant financial benefits of living in Kingwood, Texas, is the absence of state income tax. Texas is among the states that do not impose a state income tax on its residents.
Cons of Living in Kingwood, Texas
1. Flooding
Kingwood is susceptible to flooding, particularly during heavy rains and hurricanes. Hurricane Harvey flooded Kingwood after Lake Houston and San Jacinto River overflowed. Just be aware that there is a chance of flooding at Kingwood.
2. Property Taxes
Texas is known for having relatively high property taxes, and Kingwood is no exception. While the absence of state income tax can offset this for some residents, property taxes can still be a financial burden for homeowners.
3. Limited Dining and Entertainment Options
Kingwood offers a quieter lifestyle compared to the bustling city of Houston. However, this also means there are fewer dining and entertainment options available within the community. Residents may need to venture into Houston for a wider range of choices.
4. Commute Times
Despite its proximity to Houston, commuting to Houston can still be time-consuming, especially during rush hours. The daily commute may be a drawback for those working in downtown Houston. Without traffic, the commute from Kingwood to Houston is 32 minutes but with traffic, that’s another story!
5. Hot Summers
Like much of Texas, Kingwood experiences a hot and humid climate during the summer months. This can be challenging for individuals who prefer milder weather or have difficulty coping with extreme heat, especially in the summer months.