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The Woodlands : Texas

What it's Like to Retire in The Woodlands

The Woodlands in Texas, about 30 miles north of Houston often makes the lists of "best" retirement communities, although many younger families live here as well. The reasons are obvious - the cluster of 8 master planned villages and a Town Center is attractive, pleasant, and has something to offer everyone. These master planned communities offer every type of housing option from hotels to single families. There is plenty of good shopping including a shopping mall, restaurants, and activities such as 7 golf courses. The attractions of Houston are just a short drive away down Interstate 45 or the Hardy Toll Road. The Woodlands has increasingly become home to many corporate campuses including Chevron-Phillips and Hewitt Associates. The population continues to increase, going from 55,000 in 2000 to over 90,000 in 2010. Photo of Woodlands Waterway above courtesy of Photolander at En.Wikipedia. For many more interesting facts see the Wikipedia entry for The Woodlands.

Where to Retire in The Woodlands and Home Prices

Active adults 55+ can live in a golfing or active adult community or in a tree-filled small town. Real estate prices reflect the desirability of the community, but there seems to be something for everyone.
You can rent a condo for as little as just over $1000/month or you can buy a million dollar plus single family home - with every thing in between. There are even communities for senior citizens. Zillow reports the median listing price for a home in the Woodlands was $435,000, in early 2016.

What is special about The Woodlands

Master-planned community built around the old town square concept. There is a housing choice and an activity for everyone, plus a commercial base that stabilizes the community. The Woodlands Waterway offers water taxis as a means of transportation through the community. The bright lights of Houston are just a short drive away. Schools are very good except for special needs children.

What is not special about The Woodlands

Somewhat homogenous. Humidity runs 80% frequently; risk of hurricanes and tornados; summer heat.

Who will like retirement in The Woodlands

People who like living in a master planned community with like-minded people. For information on other great towns in Texas such as Nacogdoches, Austin, go to the state retirement guide to Texas

Local economy is driven by

Many businesses have chosen to locate here because of its pleasant environment and affluent, educated population. The presence of multiple corporate campuses for companies like Andarko, Chevron Phillips, Baker Hughes offers a diversified economic base that is good for taxpayers. There are at least 150 restaurants in town, plus multiple cultural venues that attract residents and visitors alike.

Climate and Physical Environment

The Woodlands is 28 miles north of Houston along I 45. The development is situated in a heavily forested area of rolling hills. Winters are fairly temperate in southern Texas, summers are hot. The July average high temperature is 94 and the average January low is 40. May is the rainiest month with 5.5".

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

Mitchell Pavilion offers local performing arts and it is a short drive to all of Houston's offerings. The Children's Museum of Houston has opened a branch in The Woodlands Mall. The Woodlands Symphony performs Fall and Spring: the Houston Symphony performs at Mitchell Pavilion in the summer; many shows in the summer are free. The Woodlands features an ever-growing list of entertainment venues including an amphitheater, two movie theaters, over 150 restaurants, and a publicly accessible waterway complete with lights and dancing waterfall. The Friendship Center has many programs for those 60+.

Crime

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Medical facilities

Memorial Hermann Hospital is a 24 hour acute care facility with 92 beds. There is also the Sadler Clinic, Conroe Regional Medical Center, and The Woodlands Healthcare Center (convalescent and nursing with over 200 beds).

Transportation

I 45 and the Hardy Toll Road lead to Houston. Bush International Airport is 30 miles away. No mass transportation in the county except park and ride buses to Houston Monday through Friday. The Woodlands is below average in walkability when compared to other towns.

Valuable Links

http://thewoodlands2.reachlocal.com/?scid=653797&kw=5198739

What people are saying about The Woodlands
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The Woodlands Active Communities

Facts about THE WOODLANDS

State: TX
Environment: Suburban,Biking Community,Golf Community,New Urban/Master Planned,All ages,
City Population: 50,001-100,000
Median age of Population: 25-44
Avg Jan Temperature: 41-60
Avg July Temperature: 81+
Median HH Income: 80,000+
Average Home Price (MLS): $200,001-$300,000
Annual Property Tax on a $200,000 house: 4001-6000
Total Crime Index: 81-90 (low)
Cost of Living Index: 91-100 (slightly below average)
Culture Index: 91-100 (slightly below average)
State Sales Tax: Yes
State Income Tax: No
Name of the Guide: Morris

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