Top 10 Most Expensive Neighborhoods in Houston, Texas


Looking to buy in Houston’s most exclusive communities? From historic mansions to gated golf estates, these neighborhoods combine prestige, luxury, and timeless value. Whether you’re relocating, upgrading, or investing in a high-end lifestyle, here are Houston’s most elite addresses — where elegance meets everyday living.


1. River Oaks – Old Money Meets Modern Prestige

Known for its tree-lined boulevards, sprawling estates, and old-money charm, River Oaks is Houston’s most iconic and exclusive neighborhood. Tucked between downtown and the Galleria, it’s home to CEOs, celebrities, and legacy families.

Real Estate Snapshot – River Oaks:

  • Median Listing Price: $4.5M
  • Luxury Range: $3M – $25M+
  • Historic mansions, modern estates, gated compounds
  • Golf course views (River Oaks Country Club)
  • Steps from Highland Village & fine dining


2. Memorial Villages – Quiet Luxury in a Gated, Wooded Setting

The Memorial Villages — Piney Point, Bunker Hill, Hedwig, Hunters Creek, and more — are a cluster of independent cities just west of Houston proper. Known for zoned privacy, top schools, and oversized estates, these villages are synonymous with generational wealth.

Real Estate Snapshot – Memorial Villages:

  • Median Listing Price: $3.2M
  • Luxury Range: $2M – $10M+
  • Estate-style homes on ½ to 1+ acre lots
  • Zoned to Spring Branch ISD (Memorial High School)
  • Gated communities, guarded entrances, and private roads

3. Tanglewood – Sophisticated Living Minutes from the Galleria

Just west of Uptown, Tanglewood is a peaceful, upscale neighborhood known for its wide lots, towering trees, and luxury ranch-style estates. It’s favored by professionals, executives, and those who value space with city convenience.

Real Estate Snapshot – Tanglewood:

Median Listing Price: $2.7M
Luxury Range: $1.5M – $10M
Traditional and transitional estates with modern upgrades
Minutes to The Galleria and Memorial Park
Home to former President George H.W. Bush




4. The Woodlands – Carlton Woods & East Shore – Luxury Among the Pines

One of America’s top master-planned communities. Gated enclaves like Carlton Woods offer custom golf estates, while East Shore delivers lakeside luxury with a walkable vibe.

  • Median Home Price (Luxury Villages): $2.2M
  • Luxury Range: $1.5M – $6M+


5. West University Place – Walkable, Elegant, and Highly Sought-After

Often referred to as “West U,” this city-within-a-city combines luxury real estate with a highly walkable, family-friendly feel. Known for its top schools, tidy streets, and proximity to Rice University and the Medical Center, it’s a favorite for professionals and physicians alike.

Real Estate Snapshot – West University:


  • Median Listing Price: $1.8M
  • Luxury Range: $1.4M – $4M
  • Newer construction homes with classic charm
  • Easy access to Hermann Park, Rice Village, and downtown
  • Zoned city services and a true community vibe

6. Bellaire – Custom Luxury Close to Everything

Often overlooked but highly coveted, Bellaire blends custom new construction with beautiful tree-lined streets and access to top-tier schools and amenities.

  • Median Home Price: $1.5M
  • Luxury Range: $1.2M – $3.5M+


7. Southside Place – Tight-Knit Community with a High-End Feel

Bordering West U, Southside Place offers luxury townhomes, single-family homes, and manicured blocks with strong community charm and walkable perks.

  • Median Home Price: $1.7M
  • Luxury Range: $1.4M – $3M


8. Braeswood Place – Upscale Living Near the Medical Center

Perfect for medical professionals, Braeswood offers a mix of elegant remodels and high-end new builds close to Rice University and the Med Center.

  • Median Home Price: $1.3M
  • Luxury Range: $1M – $2.5M


9. The Heights – Historic Character Meets Urban Luxury

Houston Heights, Greater Heights, and Woodland Heights offer a mix of historic character and modern flair, with real estate values that have skyrocketed in recent years. Boutique mansions, custom builds, and restored bungalows draw in buyers who love walkability and charm.

Real Estate Snapshot – The Heights:

Median Listing Price: $950,000

  • Luxury Range: $1.2M – $3M
  • Craftsman-style homes, modern farmhouse builds, and 3-story custom homes
  • Walking distance to shops, restaurants, and parks
  • Strong appreciation and highly sought-after lots


10. Lakes of Parkway / Royal Oaks – West Houston Waterfront & Golf Luxury

These gated communities in West Houston offer lakefront estates, golf course homes, and European-inspired architecture with 24-hour manned security.

  • Median Home Price: $900,000
  • Luxury Range: $1M – $2.5M


Want to Tour Houston’s Finest Homes?

From gated estates to executive-style custom builds, Houston’s luxury market offers a lifestyle that’s refined, private, and full of potential. Let our team of expert agents guide you through the most elite addresses in the city.