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Downtown, Houston,TX

Neighborhood Data
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Downtown Houston, situated in the heart of the city’s northwest area, is a vibrant neighborhood that perfectly blends business, culture, and entertainment. For those relocating, it offers an exciting urban lifestyle with plenty of conveniences right at your doorstep. Whether you’re a young professional, a family, or someone seeking the pulse of city life, Downtown Houston has something for everyone. The area boasts a variety of high-rise apartments and lofts, giving residents stunning skyline views and easy access to work and play. The neighborhood’s walkability is a huge plus, meaning you can hop from your home to cafes, restaurants, and shops without the hassle of long commutes.

One of Downtown Houston’s biggest draws is its rich collection of attractions and amenities. Art lovers will appreciate the nearby Museum of Fine Arts Houston and the Houston Theater District, which hosts world-renowned performances at venues like the Alley Theatre and Jones Hall. Sports enthusiasts can catch a game at Minute Maid Park or Toyota Center, both located within a short distance, offering plenty of excitement throughout the year. The Discovery Green park is a local favorite, providing green space for outdoor activities, concerts, and community events. Plus, foodies will delight in the diverse culinary scene—ranging from upscale dining to casual eateries—that makes Downtown Houston a true hotspot.

Living in Downtown Houston means you’re never far from the city’s main hub, making it easy to commute or explore other parts of Houston. The area is well-connected by public transportation and major highways, which adds to its appeal for those working in or visiting the central business district. With an energetic community vibe and countless cultural and recreational options, Downtown Houston offers a dynamic urban experience that’s both convenient and captivating. For anyone moving to Houston’s northwest side, this neighborhood is a fantastic choice that marries the excitement of city living with a welcoming atmosphere.

Community Snapshot

Population 12,797
Density (People/sqml.) 5,808
Median Age 34.2
Married Couples
30%
30% of the population of Downtown aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
10%
10% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

About 30% of the Downtown population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 10% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Age Breakdown

Downtown neighborhood age breakdown chart

Exploring Downtown demographics can reveal a lot about its character, pace, and overall lifestyle. Downtown has a population of 12,797, which is larger than many other Houston neighborhoods, creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere. Its size brings an abundance of amenities, entertainment options, and community activities, while still offering spaces to unwind and enjoy the neighborhood’s unique character.

Downtown has a population density of 5,808, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Houston neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

With an average age of 34, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

Crime in Downtown

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Downtown neighborhood age breakdown chart

Downtown Crime Map

The Downtown crime map provides an in-depth look at crime rates throughout the community, using block group data to reveal both safer pockets and places with more frequent incidents. By visualizing these patterns, the crime map helps residents and newcomers alike better understand the dynamics of neighborhood safety. It’s worth noting that higher-crime areas on the map aren’t always indicative of danger — spots near busy commercial centers, transportation hubs, or popular attractions may naturally show more reports due to increased activity.

Housing

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Home Price $316,723
Median Rent $1,771
People/Household 1.8

Home Price Breakdown

Downtown neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 65% Own 36%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 26% After 2010 74%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Downtown, the median home price is about $316,723, which is on par with many comparable areas. This average pricing reflects a stable, affordable housing market and makes the neighborhood an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers seeking both value and long-term potential. Examining how home prices and appreciation rates in Downtown have shifted over time can reveal important clues about the neighborhood’s future value. These trends help potential buyers and investors understand market momentum and determine whether the area is likely to deliver strong returns over the long term.

With an average rent price of $1,771, rental rates in Downtown are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

The Lake House
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
Starbucks
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Simmons Family Stage
Theatre Arts
min.
min.
Minute Maid Park
Stadium
min.
min.

Food & Drink

MKT BAR
Bar
min.
min.
Chick-fil-A
Fast Food
min.
min.

Groceries

Phoenicia Speciality Foods
Grocery Store
min.
min.
Yen Huong Bakery
Bakery
min.
min.

Parks

John P. McGovern Playground
Playground
min.
min.
Park
Park
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min.

Shops

The Shops at Houston Center
Mall
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min.
Verizon
Electronics
min.
min.

Getting Around

Transit Stops

Bus Stop
Bus Stop
min.
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Travis St @ Capitol St
Bus Stop
min.
min.

Transit Stations

Convention District (eastbound)
Transit Station
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Convention District (westbound)
Transit Station
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Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Houston Ear, Nose, Throat & Allergy Clinic
Clinic
min.
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CVS Pharmacy
Pharmacy
min.
min.

Health Care

EaDo Family Dental
Dentist
min.
min.
Dentist
Dentist
min.
min.

Safety

Harris County Sheriff's Office
Police
min.
min.
Harris County Sheriff's Office - Economic Crime
Police
min.
min.

Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
East Early College H S
220 N Milby St, Houston, TX
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Young Scholars Academy For Excellence
1809 Louisiana St, Houston, TX
Elementary School PK - 8 School Score
Carnegie Vanguard H S
1501 Taft, Houston, TX
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Houston Academy For International Studies
1810 Stuart, Houston, TX
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Incarnate Word Academy
609 Crawford St, Houston, TX
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Yellowstone College Preparatory
3000 Trulley St, Houston, TX
Elementary School M - M School Score
Bruce El
510 Jensen Dr, Houston, TX
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in Downtown combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Downtown can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.

Economy

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Income Per Capita $64,587
Household Income $95,287
Unemployment 4.5%

Income Breakdown

Downtown Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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The economic makeup of a neighborhood often tells a deeper story about its lifestyle, opportunities, and overall character. In Downtown, median household incomes average $95,287, which is higher than many surrounding neighborhoods. This elevated earning power helps support a more upscale environment, offering residents access to premium amenities, well-maintained surroundings, and a standard of living that emphasizes comfort and quality.

The employment landscape offers valuable insight into the stability and economic health of a neighborhood. In Downtown, the unemployment rate sits at around 5%, which is about average compared to many other areas. This balanced rate reflects a steady local economy and a reliable foundation for residents and businesses alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the highlights?

Downtown Houston is a vibrant hub with a mix of cultural, entertainment, and business attractions. Key highlights include the Theater District, home to the Houston Ballet, Houston Symphony, and Alley Theatre. Discovery Green is a popular urban park that hosts concerts, fitness classes, and festivals year-round. Sports fans can enjoy games at Minute Maid Park, where the Houston Astros play, or catch a basketball game at the Toyota Center. The area also boasts a variety of dining options, from upscale restaurants to trendy food halls like Finn Hall.

Are there any major highways or transit lines nearby?

Downtown Houston is well-connected with several major highways including Interstate 10 (Katy Freeway), Interstate 45, and Interstate 69 (Eastex Freeway), providing easy access to other parts of the city and beyond. Public transit is also robust with the METRORail system running through downtown, offering convenient stops at key locations such as the Convention District and Theater District. Additionally, the area is served by numerous bus routes, making commuting and exploring the city straightforward.

Are there any notable landmarks or historical sites?

Downtown Houston features several notable landmarks and historical sites. The JPMorgan Chase Tower and Wells Fargo Plaza are iconic skyscrapers defining the skyline. The historic Market Square Park offers a glimpse into Houston’s past with its 19th-century architecture and hosts regular events. Other significant sites include the Julia Ideson Building, part of the Houston Public Library, known for its classic Spanish Renaissance architecture, and the Heritage Society at Sam Houston Park, showcasing preserved historic homes and buildings from Houston’s early days.

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