Houston is a city that is rapidly growing, but the Houston Chronicle noted some concerns regarding a trend in growth in the unincorporated areas of Harris County. A population report for Harris County estimated that nearly 100,000 new residents had moved into the unincorporated areas of the county. Since county governments cannot raise sales taxes or pass ordinances, these parts of the county pose unique problems for the city and the state as a whole. 

The push outward to the unincorporated areas of the county is due to a few reasons. At first glance, the move away from the center of Houston is just a repeat of history. People move away from the interior of the city as the urban center gets too crowded. However, there has to be someplace to move to, a destination that attracts residents trying to get away from urban life. That’s where unincorporated Harris County has been successful. Its master-planned communities have helped to lure residents out toward the edges of Houston.

Courtesy of Active Rain

Spring, TX

Spring is well-known among Houstonians and home to communities like WindRose, which boasts 2,200 homes across 1,100 acres of natural wooded lands. The natural appeal of rural Harris County makes for an appealing place to live, and WindRose itself is characterized by long stretches of forest intersected by rivers and grass plains. The community’s amenities also include on-site fishing, tennis courts, swimming pools, and other recreational facilities. The community also has several social clubs centered around activities.

Rendering of Lakes at Creekside

Klein, TX

Likewise, Klein, TX is near to the Lakes at Creekside. The Lakes are yet another master-planned community situated on the natural grass plains that sit north of Houston. This community is positioned next to several parks and golf clubs that are popular around Harris County. Residents are also well positioned between the Woodlands to the east and Houston in the south, giving them access to the popular Woodlands Mall as well as the interior of Houston. 

Courtesy of Bridgeland

Cypress / Fairbanks, TX

Cy-Fair, which refers to the Cypress and Fairbanks area, is also another significant stretch of unincorporated Harris County. Here, residents will find prominent communities such as Bridgeland and Towne Lake. Bridgeland brings together a community around Josey Lake and offers members amenities such as an activity center, swimming pools, and extensive running and biking trails. Towne Lake also provides lakeside living and the popular Towne Lake Boardwalk, where residents can go shopping, dining, and catch nighttime entertainment.