Living in Fort Bend County
Living
Latest data shows Fort Bend County has seen a population increase of 26 percent in the last six years. Fort Bend continues to be one of the fastest-growing large county in the nation. See why businesses and residents are racing to Fort Bend!
With a wealth of opportunities to learn, work and play, Fort Bend County is the place to get ahead. Residents enjoy some of the highest incomes in the state, great education systems, and the benefits of a thriving business economy. Home to more master planned communities than any county in Texas, Fort Bend County is always teaming with life.
Fort Bend County ranks No. 2 for purchasing power in the United States, No. 1 in Texas . SmartAsset, 2018.
Fort Bend County is home to 5 of the top 10 master planned communities in Houston. Houston ranks No. 2 in the nation. The most active master-planned communities according to MetroStudy 2017 calling Fort Bend County home are: 1. Riverstone 3. Aliana 4. Sienna Plantation 6. Cross Creek Ranch 9. Tamarron
Quality of Life
Life in Greater Houston’s Finest Address
Residents in Fort Bend County enjoy the benefit of a community diverse in its cultures, cities, and lifestyles. From metropolitan living in the lofts and retail mixed use communities of Sugar Land to the amenity rich master planned communities in Missouri City to the quiet charm of Fulshear, to the history rich communities of Richmond and Rosenberg, Fort Bend County is a mix of communities, cosmopolitan to rural, offering residents options and opportunity.
Excellent education systems, low crime rate, and some of the highest incomes in the state, Fort Bend communities, in their diversity of style and offerings, derive the benefits of an ever-growing business economy. Those who call Fort Bend home may catch a baseball game at Constellation Field, go bird watching at Seabourne Creek Nature Park, attend a concert in the Stafford Center, or watch a polo match on the fields in Simonton. There is something for everyone in Fort Bend.
Schools and Education
Boasting exceptional primary and secondary education systems, Fort Bend is the regional leader for an educated adult population and high school graduation rate. The county’s amazing educational opportunities continue to attract those looking to raise a family, and with great access to top-ranked colleges and universities, achievement is never too far away.
School Districts
Check out our latest video on public education in Fort Bend County!
Houston developers and homebuilders often consider the quality of local schools when determining the location of their next master-planned community or subdivision of homes. Fort Bend ISD and Lamar CISD numbers one and three on the list of Houston area schools with the most development. - Houston Business Journal, 2017
The University of Houston School of Nursing boasts a 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate on the exam, placing the University of Houston School of Nursing in the top 5% of the nation for pass rates for two years in a row, ( 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018).
Fort Bend County is home to four of the top 10 public high schools in the Greater Houston region, claiming the number two, three, and six spots on the list, (Niche, 2018).
Wharton County Junior College ranked No. 1 community college in Texas by BestColleges.com. - YourFortBendNews.com. (2018)
Master Planned Communities
With every need planned for, Fort Bend County is home to seven of the 10 most active Houston master planned communities and more master planned communities than any other county in Texas.
Photo courtesy Larry Pullen
One of the key factors in the area’s immense success, these outstanding communities provide some of the finest amenities available, including nature parks, green belts, lakes, onsite cafes, golf courses, hike and bike trails, and agri-hood amenities such as backyard gardens and edible landscaping.
Master planned communities are about more than fine amenities, though. Homes in master planned communities maintain their value and increase in value at a greater rate than those homes not part of planned community. Mobility is substantially improved in planned communities as well, with enhanced road systems and additional access to ingress and egress, resulting in less traffic. Neighborhood schools, particularly at the elementary level, encourage parental involvement, responsive schools, and stronger parent-teacher interaction, leading to enhanced quality of life.
Learn About Living & Living Well In Video Above
Communities List
Fort Bend is home to some of the best master planned communities in the nation, both those that are still building and those that are built out.
Five of the top 10 master planned communities in Houston can be found in Fort Bend. Houston ranks No. 2 in the nation. The most active master-planned communities according to MetroStudy 2017 calling Fort Bend County home are:
1. Riverstone
3. Aliana
4. Sienna Plantation
6. Cross Creek Ranch
9. Tamarron
Sales information from developers and HOAs.
Master Planned Communities- Developing
| Community | Developer | Total Acres | Homes Sold | Lots Projected | Homes From | Homes To | School Districts | Acres of Green Space |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aliana | AIRIA Development Company | 2000 | 2970 | 4200 | $280,000s | Millions | FBISD | 300 |
| Cinco Ranch | Newland Communities | 8,100 | 14,950 | 15,000 | $400,000s | Millions | Katy ISD | Not Available |
| Creekside Ranch | Tal Atlantic & Ashton Woods | 226 | 19 | 700 | $220,000s | $400,000s | LCISD | 2 |
| Cross Creek Ranch | Johnson Development | 3,200 | 2,681 | 7,000 | $220,000s | Millions | Katy ISD LCISD | 650 |
| Firethorne | Jefferson Development | Not Available | 1,400 | 3,600 | $190,000s | $800,000s | Katy ISD LCISD | 150 |
| Fulbrook on Fulshear Creek | Trend Development | 650 | 325 | 1,100 | $280,000s | $800,000s | LCISD | 99 |
| Fulbrook | Trend Development | 1,000 | 414 | 480 | $650,000s | Millions | LCISD | 200 |
| Harvest Green | Johnson Development | 1,300 | 732 | 2,600 | $240,000s | $500,000s | FBISD | 300 |
| Imperial Sugar Land | Johnson Development | 720 | 319 | 1,200 | $400,000s | Millions | FBISD | 62 |
| Jordan Ranch | Johnson Development | 1,350 | 172 | 3,000 | $250,000s | TBD | LCISD | 250 |
| Lakes of Bella Terra | Ryco Development | 725 | 1,656 | Not available | $200,000s | Millions | LCISD | 300 |
| Long Meadow Farms | Trend Development | 1,355 | 2,100 | 2,200 | $250,000s | $580,000s | FBISD LCISD | 278 |
| Riverstone | Johnson Development | 3,700 | 5,566 | 6,163 | $300,000s | Millions | FBISD | 1,200 |
| Sienna Plantation | Johnson Development | 10,800 | 8,080 | 16,500 | $250,000s | Millions | FBISD | 3,000 |
| Veranda | Johnson Development | 590 | 203 | 2,500 | $200,000s | TBD | LCISD | 110 |
Additional Communities
Mixed-Use Centers
In Fort Bend County, our mixed-use centers positioned throughout the county enhance the extraordinary quality of life for which Fort Bend is known. Offering residents and visitors alike exceptional shopping, dining,relaxation experiences, community events, and public gathering spaces- all walkable and integrated with hotels, residential choices, and office complexes- these lifestyle centers are community destination hubs and truly remarkable places.
And more centers are on the way, with projects developing across the county. View our centers and see what’s coming next below.
More On The Way!
Circle Oak
Imperial Market
Cities of Fort Bend County
Each city within Fort Bend County is unique, providing its own special personality and benefits. From master planned communities, to city living, to towns rooted in history, there’s truly something for everyone.
Larger Fort Bend County Cities
Sugar Land
As one of the fastest growing cities in Texas, the City of Sugar Land is an award-winning, master-planned community located minutes southwest of downtown Houston. Uniquely positioned as a hub for premium shopping, dining and world class entertainment, the City is home to the Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land, the minor league ballpark Constellation Field, as well as a new live entertainment venue slated for opening in fall 2016 – the Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land.
Mayor
The Honorable Joe Zimmerman
City Manager Mike Goodrum
Missouri City
Missouri City residents experience a quality of life that is inspiring. Our citizens enjoy a balance of urban amenities in a small-town atmosphere. It is a community with a rich history and traditional family values. Missouri City is home to several award winning master planned communities and the highly acclaimed Fort Bend Independent School District, a district recognized for its quality students and teachers. Affordable homes, friendly neighbors, and quality educational amenities make Missouri City a place you will love to call home.
Mayor
The Honorable Yolanda Ford
City Manager
Rosenberg
Rosenberg combines a low cost of living with a great school district, diverse retail and dining options and a great quality of life. Our vibrant tourism market is highlighted by our Historic Downtown, which was designated a State Cultural District by the Texas Commission on the Arts and a Texas Main Street City by the Texas Historical Commission. Brazos Town Center and the incoming Paragon Outlet Mall provide easily accessible retail and dining on Interstate-69.
Mayor
The Honorable William T. Benton
City Manager
John Maresh
Stafford
The City of Stafford offers a quiet, family oriented environment close to both work and play. Located southwest of Houston, Stafford allows easy access to downtown and Houston’s major airports. Stafford is close to many recreational amenities including museums, zoos and professional sports. Stafford boasts the only municipal school district in Texas, plays host to award winning performances at the Stafford Centre and offers a variety of shopping and dining opportunities for the whole family.
Mayor
The Honorable Leonard Scarella
Katy
Located in three counties, Katy is experiencing tremendous growth. Near Interstate 10, Katy is close enough to the big-city amenities of Houston, yet distant enough to provide a small-town lifestyle. Rich in history and loved by all who have been touched by its warmth, Katy is known for its charm and friendliness. The area boasts an excellent, highly-rated school system, affordable housing, and safe neighborhoods. From education to recreation, there is something here for everyone in Katy.
Mayor
The Honorable Bill Hastiungs
City Administrator
Byron J. Hebert
Richmond
Richmond has adopted a Comprehensive and Trails Master Plan in harmony with our Historic District and Brazos River, creating greater connectivity among our many neighborhoods and historic landmarks. Partnerships between business and community are attracting investments and amenities along the river, adding to the beauty and harmony of our historic county seat. The world class George Ranch Historical Park and emerging Long Acres Ranch continue to attract tourists, residents and investments.
Mayor
The Honorable Evalyn Moore
City Manager
Terri Vela
Fulshear
Conveniently located just minutes from Houston, Katy and Sugar Land; Fulshear offers a unique blend of fine dining, unique shopping experiences and rural charm. Come Find your Future in Fulshear! Or just spend a day with and see why we say Fulshear is where Small Town Charm meets Urban Sophistication!
Mayor
The Honorable Aaron Groff
City Manager
Jack Harper
Smaller Fort Bend County Cities
Arcola
Built on a league granted to one of the Old Three Hundred settlers, Arcola is located about as far east as one can get in Fort Bend County. This parcel of land, acquired by Jonathan Dawson Waters in the 1800s, became one of the biggest sugar and cotton plantations in Texas. Home to Houston Southwest Airport, Arcola is positioned for growth as the county continues to expand.
Mayor
The Honorable Fred Burton
Beasley
In the 1890s, C.A. Beasley arrived in Fort Bend County to work as an agent and telegraph operator for the local railroad. As the railroad grew, so did Beasley, attracting many residents from the north. The community officially incorporated in 1970 and today, more than 700 residents call Beasley home.
Mayor
The Honorable Kenneth Reid
Fairchilds
Fairchilds, located in southeastern Fort Bend County, is named for early settler Philo Fairchilds. In 1896, a colony of Mennonites bought a league of land on Big Creek and soon, several families settled the area. In 1990, Fairchilds reported a population of 150 and had a feed store, café and general store.
Mayor
The Honorable Lance Bertolino
Kendleton
Originally called Oak Hill, this area was an early stop on the main stagecoach route between Columbia and San Antonio. In the 1860s, a land agent named William Kendall purchased land and divided it into small farms, which were then offered up for sale. Eventually, the community that formed became known as Kendleton. West Fort Bend County is the new horizon for growth in the sectors of residential, commercial, industrial, and beyond.
Mayor
The Honorable Darryl K. Humphrey, Sr.
Meadows Place
Meadows Place, incorporated in 1983, is the safest city in, and the gateway to, Fort Bend County. Its excellent location, varied housing stock, autonomous government, exemplary schools, inviting parks, outstanding police department, strong code-enforcement policy, and low taxes has given generations of residents the ideal family-friendly environment. Here, residents enjoy small-town tranquility within the Greater Houston area.
Mayor
The Honorable Charles D. Jessup, IV
Needville
Cattle grazed freely in this part of Fort Bend County up until the 1890s. That’s when August Schendel built a home, cotton gin and store in the area, which he named Schendelville. When he tried to establish a post office, he joked that the town should be called “Needmore” since it needed more of everything. The post office replied that Needmore was already established, thereupon naming it Needville. Today, Needville is “where thousands live the way millions wish they could.”
Mayor
The Honorable Andrew Bohac
Orchard
Located in western Fort Bend County, Orchard is a beautiful stop on the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe line. One of the first settlers, S.K. Cross, promoted the community in 1890 as he sold his land to German, bohemian and Polish settlers. These settlers began planting large fruit orchards, and visitors were soon calling the area Fruitland. The post office application for Fruitland was denied because another existed, so the community reapplied with the name Orchard in 1892.
Mayor
The Honorable Rod Pavlock
Pleak
Pleak gets its name from real estate developer A.E. Pleak. A successful oilman, he donated land for a school in 1912, which resulted in the formation of a small community in the area that still bears his name.
Mayor
The Honorable Larry Bitner
Simonton
Named after James Simonton who came to Texas in 1850, this city became known for the quality artesian water beneath the entire area. Around 1888, the railroad was built and the population of Simonton increased, as it was one of the main water stops for the steam engines at that time. In the 1900s, potatoes and cotton became export crops. There was even a cotton gin located near the railroad until the 1980s. Today, most of Simonton’s residents work in Houston, Katy or Richmond-Rosenberg.
Mayor
The Honorable Laurie Boudreaux
Thompsons
Thompsons is on the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe line and Farm Road 2759, twelve miles southeast of Richmond in eastern Fort Bend County. Settlement in the area began around 1830, when Robert E. Bohannon moved to Texas from Alabama and was given a land grant under a program where the Mexican government contracted with empresario Stephen F. Austin to bring in settlers. When Bohannon died, his wife married Hiram Thompson, who named the community after himself.
Mayor: The Honorable Freddie Newsome
Weston Lakes
Nestled in Fulshear among rolling hills and stately pecan trees, this 1,400-acre community features a 24-hour guard/gated entry, 18-hole championship golf course, and a country club surrounded by miles of lakes.
Mayor
The Honorable Ramona Neal