Houston, TX 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Local resources for visiting or moving to Houston:

• Visit Houston: Experience the best of Houston with recommendations on attractions, events, dining, and more.
• Houston Chronicle: Stay updated on local news, events, and lifestyle information with the city's leading newspaper.
• City of Houston website: official website for the city that provides information for residents and visitors.
• Houston Parks and Recreation Department: Learn about Houston's parks, trails, and recreational facilities, and find resources for outdoor activities and events. 

Houston Affordability and Cost of Living 

Houston offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to many other major cities in the United States. The cost of housing in Houston is about 26 percent lower than the national average. Grocery, healthcare and utility prices in Houston are also affordable but transportation costs are about 20 percent higher than the national average. Sales tax in Houston is 8.25 percent of which 6.25 percent is state tax and two percent is local tax. Houston is in Harris County where the average property tax is 2.31 percent of a home's fair market value. 

Houston offers a wide range of affordable and free entertainment. The city has numerous parks, trails, and outdoor spaces that can be enjoyed at no or minimal cost. There are also other attractions, museums, and art galleries, which may offer discounted or free admission on certain days or for specific events. 

Texas does not impose an individual income tax on wages or any type of retirement income. Property taxes in Texas are very high but there are some programs to assist qualified seniors. Texas has a somewhat high state sales tax although groceries and prescriptions are exempt. There are no estate or inheritance taxes. 

Houston Climate and Geography 

Houston is in the humid subtropical climate zone which has hot summers and mild winters. The average temperature in the winter ranges from the mid-40s to mid-60s Fahrenheit, while the average summer temperature ranges from the mid-70s to mid-90s Fahrenheit. Houston receives an average of 49 inches of rainfall per year, with the wettest months being June through September. The area is also prone to severe weather events such as hurricanes, which can bring heavy rain, strong winds, and flooding. Thunderstorms are common in Houston and the city ranks in the top ten cities in the U.S. for lightning strikes.

Houston is situated on the Gulf Coastal Plain, which is characterized by flat terrain and fertile soil. The city is located near the Gulf of Mexico, providing easy access to beaches and water sports. Houston is home to the Buffalo Bayou, a 52-mile slow-moving river that runs through the city, offering opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. For those looking to venture outside of the city, there are several state parks and natural areas within a short drive, including Galveston Island State Park and Brazos Bend State Park, which offer hiking trails, camping, and birdwatching opportunities. 

Recreation, Shopping, and Entertainment in Houston

Houston offers a wide range of entertainment, whether you enjoy outdoor activities, exploring museums and historical sites, attending live performances, or cheering on a sports team, Houston has something for everyone.

Golf and Racquet Sports

• Memorial Park Golf Course
• Hermann Park Golf Course
• Memorial Park Tennis Center
• Houston Racquet Club

Hiking, Biking and Boating

• Buffalo Bayou Park
• Hermann Park
• Memorial Park
• Discovery Green

Museums and Historical Sites

• The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
• The Houston Museum of Natural Science
• The Menil Collection
• The Space Center Houston

Performing Arts

• The Houston Symphony
• The Houston Ballet
• The Alley Theatre
• The Wortham Theater Center

Professional Sports

• Houston Astros (MLB baseball)
• Houston Texans (NFL football)
• Houston Rockets (NBA basketball)
• Houston Dynamo (MLS soccer)

Parks and Gardens

• Hermann Park Conservancy
• Mercer Botanic Gardens
• Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens
• McGovern Centennial Gardens

Festivals and Fairs

• The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
• The Texas Renaissance Festival
• The Bayou City Art Festival
• The Houston International Festival

Health and Wellness in Houston

Houston, TX is a great location for 55+ active adults looking to maintain their health and well-being. Some of the notable medical facilities in Houston include the Baylor St. Luke's Medical Center, Memorial Hermann Hospital, and Houston Methodist Hospital, among others. These hospitals are renowned for their quality of care and cutting-edge treatments. 

There are many local options for self-care and keeping fit such as yoga and fitness studios, health clubs, and spas. Area parks also offer walking, biking and hiking trails for those who prefer outdoor fitness options. Nutrition is an important part of health and Houston is home to several farmers markets that offer fresh produce, meat, and other locally sourced products.

Recommended Itinerary for Visiting Houston Area 55+ Communities

For those considering buying a home in a Houston 55+ retirement community a visit to the area can be an important step in making a decision. Here's a two-day itinerary to help potential home buyers familiarize themselves with the area:

Day One

Morning:

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast or coffee at a local favorite, such as The Breakfast Klub or Tout Suite.
• Take a leisurely stroll through Hermann Park, a beautiful green space with lush gardens, walking trails, and a peaceful lake.
• Indulge in some retail therapy at the Galleria, one of the largest shopping centers in the country, offering a wide range of stores and boutiques.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a delightful lunch at a popular eatery like The Original Ninfa's on Navigation or Barnaby's Cafe.
• Explore the Museum District, where you can choose from 19 different world-class museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts.

Evening:

• Treat yourself to a memorable dinner at a local hotspot like Uchi, known for its exceptional sushi and Japanese cuisine.
• Catch a performance at the Houston Theater District, home to renowned theaters and opera houses, showcasing a vibrant arts scene.

Day Two

Morning:

• Start your day with a hearty breakfast or a cup of coffee at Common Bond Cafe & Bakery or Blacksmith.
• Meet with your local 55places expert retirement community partner agent to discuss potential retirement communities and gather information about the area's amenities and housing options.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local eatery known for its tasty cuisine, such as Pondicheri or Brennan's of Houston.
• Take a scenic boat tour on the Buffalo Bayou to appreciate Houston's beautiful skyline and natural surroundings.
• Take a relaxing stroll through the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center for a walk through its beautiful trails.

Evening:

• For a memorable dinner, head to a popular restaurant like Hugo's, specializing in authentic Mexican cuisine.

Getting to Houston, TX

Houston, TX is easily accessible by a variety of transportation options. For those driving, major highways into the area include Interstate 10, Interstate 45, and US-59. If you're flying, the city is served by two major airports: George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU).

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is located about 20 miles north of downtown Houston and is a hub for United Airlines. Other major airlines that serve IAH include Delta, American Airlines, and Spirit. William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) is located about 11 miles south of downtown Houston and is primarily served by Southwest Airlines.

If you prefer to take the train, Amtrak offers service to Houston's Amtrak Station located in the Midtown area. Greyhound Bus Lines also has a station in Houston located downtown.