Picky Buyers Eyeballing the Best Galveston County Neighborhoods

With homes and condominiums that will fit any budget - from a million dollar mansion in Galveston Bay to an inexpensive family home that's still close to the beach, Galveston County has become a favorite for Texans who want luxury living at an affordable cost.

The best neighborhoods feature beachfront living at its best, and with community names like Isla Del Sol, Sunset Cove, and Emerald by the Sea, it's apparent that the focus on beach side locations is central to most residences.

This area's close proximity to the sparkling waters and almost daily sunshine makes beach front homes a popular choice for retired couples, vacationers or families who live in the residential homes year round. The west part of the island and Indian Beach have a number of very low priced homes that are next to the beach, and along with Jamaica Beach these locations make up some of the best Galveston County neighborhoods for home buyers.

Many properties are located very close to picnic areas, playgrounds, and event pavilions. In the past few years, there has been a drastic increase in the number of vacation and beach homes sold here, and people are continuing to be drawn to the beautiful beaches, great shopping and fine restaurants. These homes start at about $300,000 for a newer, two or three bedroom home that could serve as a residence or vacation spot.

There are also a number of condominiums and lofts here that are right on the beach, or within walking distance. Beach side or beach front properties on the island, Bay Harbor or Jamaica Beach start at around $130,000, which makes them an amazingly low cost option for couples or singles. Kemah has many high rises and townhouses, as well as single family dwellings, and is well-known for the Kemah Boardwalk - where tourists and locals alike enjoy amusement rides, theme restaurants and other entertainment.

The Clear Lake area has become one of the best Galveston County neighborhoods, and home buyers who move into this boating community can look forward to the worth of their home increasing each year. While the cost of Galveston County properties is still very much in reach for almost any income level, there is still the potential to make an impressive profit on real estate.

The family homes range from elaborate character homes that were built in the 1800's, to modern new communities with contemporary appliances and stylish designs. Communities in Clear Lake largely house professionals and their families, as NASA and Boeing are both located in the area. A number of schools in the school district make this neighborhood a good choice for families with school-aged children.

The benefits of living in this neighborhood are that while you are close to sandy beaches, you're also never far from the bustling city of Houston. This means that families can visit attractions like the Houston Museum of Natural Science and the Houston Zoo. The best Galveston County neighborhoods near the beach also have their own amenities and entertainment, so families don't necessarily have to leave home to find great dining, theater and activities.

There are many public and private schools here, and they continue to set records for academic excellence. There are nine independent school districts in Galveston, and the public and private educational institutions are some of the best schools in Galveston - the county has some of the highest national averages on test scores each year.

The best neighborhoods are attractive because they appeal to people who are looking for a vacation home or people who want a residence that is near the beach. The area is known as one of the best places to live in the USA. Properties are well below the national average in cost, and home buyers continue to choose this Texas location because the competitive home prices and high standard of living means more time and money to spend on the beaches, fishing and boating, or in the exciting city of Houston.