The first incorporated African American city in Texas
Independence Heights is a neighborhood where history and future are intertwined. The neighborhood became the first African American municipality in Texas when it was incorporated in 1915. In its heyday, the city had more than 40 black-owned businesses, including grocery stores, eateries, and law offices. The blossoming town was annexed into Houston in 1929 but has started to see new life with the development of new modern townhouses. “It is a historic neighborhood that offers affordability and a great location,” says Sloane Laswell, a broker with Corcoran Prestige Realty. “Things are still under construction as more redevelopments continue to happen. But it is in a great location, and you can get anywhere in the city with nearby Interstate 610, and you’re not dealing with as high of a price point.”
In Independence Heights, historic charm meets modern flair, creating a dynamic community.
Historical marker
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Historic homes and new townhouse developments
Along tight city streets, historic bungalow homes adorn compact property lots and make up the original home inventory of the neighborhood. More recently, new construction modern townhouses with garages have become the norm in the neighborhood. Buyers can expect home prices to range from $174,000 to $350,000 for an older home, while townhouses can range from $350,000 to $500,000. “Homes are still being redeveloped in this area. We are seeing developments and investors come into the area and either tearing down old homes or remodeling them,” Laswell says.
Single family homes in Independence Heights.
Independence Heights has charming bungalows and cozy cottages.
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Children delight in the playgrounds and play areas of McCullough Park.
Historic McCullough Park
McCullough Park is the only public space remaining from the neighborhood's early years and is on the National Register of Historic Places. The park, originally named Independence Park, opened in 1910 and was a milestone because, at the time, African American neighborhoods had very few community spaces and parks. Today, the park remains a community gathering spot for church groups and schools and hosts the annual Juneteenth celebration. With multiple pocket parks in the area, Independence Heights Park is a popular destination with an adjoining community center. Residents head to the park where they can beat the summer heat at the pool, play on the playground or shoot hoops on the covered hard-surfaced courts. The community center provides indoor recreation with classrooms and rentable space.
Shopping close to home and dining in The Heights
The Whole Foods Market on 31st Street is more than a grocery store and is a point of pride in the neighborhood as the side of the building is encased with a mural created by local artist Danny Asberry El that shows the neighborhood's history. B&W Meat Company has been open since 1959 and has been a local butcher with meat, seafood, and other groceries, while Wabash Feed & Garden has a rooster on its roof and offers everything from gardening needs, home goods and pet supplies. Just a few blocks south is the Heights, where residents can try food of all varieties. “The Heights has so many restaurants you can find five in one block,” Laswell says. Some popular picks, though, are La Lucha, which serves seafood and chicken options, while Field & Tides is known for its southern fare and extensive cocktail menu.
Whole Foods is the one-stop shop in Independence Heights.
Dive into the culinary delights of Independence Heights, where creativity and flavor collide.
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Celebrating Juneteenth in a historic neighborhood
Juneteenth is a big celebration in the neighborhood, with an event held at McCullough Park and the mural on the Whole Foods being part of the city’s Markers, Murals, and Mains Juneteenth Tour. The neighborhood is just north of the Houston Farmers Market, a permanent 18-acre structure offering local produce, herbs, spices, meats and treats daily.
Independence Heights is rich in history, with many historical markers.
Independence Heights showcases its beautiful murals.
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The high school for engineering professions
Independence Heights is part of the Houston Independent School District, ranking as a B on Niche. With nearly 190,000 children, it is the largest school district in Texas and the eighth largest in the country. The district offers school choice, and families can apply to any school they feel meets their student's needs. One of the zoned school paths for students is Burrus Elementary, which grades a C-plus then the B-minus rated Hamilton Middle, before earning their diploma from Booker T. Washington High School. The high school earns a B-minus and is the high school for engineering professions, one of the first magnet programs in the district.
Booker T Washington Sr High is in the Independence Heights neighborhood.
Booker T Washington Sr High provides a safe and academic environment for students.
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Just north of the I-610 Loop
Independence Heights is in a prime location in the city. It is just north of Interstate 610, known as the loop, and encircles the traditional inner city of Houston, which spans 42 miles. Its western border is Interstate 45, from Dallas to Galveston across Texas. Residents can ride the MetroRail’s Red Line at nearby stations, Lindale Park or Melbourne / North Lindale, or take one of the Metro bus routes with stops scattered throughout the neighborhood.
Abundant amount of green spaces in Independence Heights.
610 shield sign
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Severe weather in Houston
Houston is susceptible to severe weather and over the last decade, has experienced hurricanes, tornados and flooding. The east part of the neighborhood is at a higher risk of flooding than the rest.
Planet fitness is a great place to get a work out in Independence Heights.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Mark Standridge,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Shepherd Park
Trails
Playground
Multi-Purpose Field
Graham Park
Picnic Area
Tennis
Playground
Independence Heights Park
Baseball/Softball
Pool
Tennis
McCullough Park
Basketball
Playground
Multi-Purpose Field
Kerr Park
Baseball/Softball
Soccer
Playground
Garden Oaks Gazebo Park
Picnic Area
Multi-Purpose Field
Transit
Airport
George Bush Intcntl/Houston
22 min drive
Bus
N Main St & E 40th St
Bus
Crosstimbers St & Yale St
Bus
Crosstimbers St & Europa St
Bus
N Main St & Link Rd
Bus
Yale St & Cockerel St
Bus
Crosstimbers St & Main St
Bus
W Crosstimbers St & Garden Oaks Blv
Reviews
Niche Reviews
3.88 Reviews
3.0Current Resident
8/30/2021Niche Review
We have had only positive experiences with out neighbors, and love our home. But we don't really walk around our neighborhood, for various reasons. We walk a couple blocks to the west where it is much prettier and safer.
4.0Current Resident
3/18/2024Niche Review
Within my recent time living in the heights, I've seen mostly good things. The people are all very friendly, everyone and everywhere is very welcoming. Though the heights spread wide, it feels kind of small with everyone knowing everyone.
Are you familiar with the Independence Heights neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Independence Heights
US
Homicide
6
4
Sexual Assault
5
4
Assault with Weapon
6
4
Robbery
6
4
Burglary
5
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
6
4
Larceny
5
4
Crime Score
5
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Independence Heights, Houston sell after 57 days on the market compared to the national average of 47 days. The average sale price for homes in Independence Heights, Houston over the last 12 months is $369,162, up 2% from the average home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to 314 Cyclamen Street — a stylish two-story home that truly shows like a model. This beautifully designed 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath property features modern finishes throughout, offering both comfort and sophistication. From the open-concept layout to the high-end details, every space feels thoughtfully curated. Step outside to your elevated green space with recently installed turf — perfect
Welcome to this adorable single family home in a private gated community in Garden Oaks being sold by the original owner. Well loved and cared for, this lovely two-story has a beautiful front elevation that welcomes you into the 3 bedroom home with a first-floor home office. Two other bedrooms and a full bathroom on the first floor. Second floor features vaulted ceilings in the living room with
IF you are serious about quality you MUST SEE IN PERSON This LIKE NEW patio home with 1 of the LARGEST LOTS for newer homes in Independence Heights. Nestled in a recently built quiet & secure gated community, this 1 owner corner home has been kept in meticulous condition. LED lighting throughout, MOEN plumbing, 2 car garage, fully fenced back yard, alarm system, engineer wood throughout living,
Vacant residential lot situated in the Independence Heights neighborhood of Houston. The property spans approximately 9,234 square feet. Conveniently located near major thoroughfares, providing residents with easy access to various parts of Houston. Public transportation options are also available, enhancing connectivity for those without personal vehicles. Prospective buyers can consider
Charming 2 story home in the Independence Heights area. Includes 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths. Fully remodeled bathrooms and kitchen with quartz countertops, new cabinets, and stainless steel appliances. All NEW plumbing system and electrical. Double-paned windows. NEW roof. NEW light fixtures. NEW flooring and interior paint throughout the home. Easy access to 610 and I-45 FWY. Home did not flood
Avant Custom Homes builds a luxurious modern masterpiece in one of the hottest developed sections of Independence Heights. Easy access to 45 and 610 and all local amenities! This modern home comes standard with upgrades such as a sleek modern frosted glass garage door along with high 20 ft ceilings, tankless water heater, PEX Plumbing, and much more. Private front gate/mud section that reveals a
Welcome to 915 E 37th Street in Independence Heights! This stunning 2-story, 3 bed, 2.5 bath home with modern finishes features an open layout, stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, and plenty of storage space. Over sized primary bedroom with walk-in closet and gorgeous bath with a double quartz vanity and large walk in shower is something you're sure to love! Central air and heat,
This unit is in a private gated townhome community and easily accessible to Downtown, Galleria area and all the major freeways, I45, Beltway 8, etc. Lots of new developments in the area. You will love the carpet free home with all engineered plank flooring, quartz countertops in kitchen, granite countertops in all bathrooms, clean lines and contemporary modern look and finishes. You'll also enjoy
We're Open for Tours and New Residents. Call or stop by today.Choose from a variety of living spaces designed to meet your every need. The Avenue is part of The Heights area, featuring an array of modern amenities and many extras for your convenience. New lifestyle amenities include a commercial size playground, picnic tables with grills, brand-new dog park, state of the art fitness
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Mark Standridge,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Renters
Demographics
Total Population
16,097
Median Age
38
Population Density
8 ppl/acre
Population under 18
25%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
15.1%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$43,377
Significantly below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$59,936
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
75.4%
Below the national average
89.1%
College Graduates
21.1%
Below the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
8.6%
% Population in Labor Force
62.5%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
50''
Average Winter Low Temperature
43°F
Average Summer High Temperature
95°F
Annual Snowfall
0''
Area Factors
Very Bikeable
Bike Score®
72/ 100
Somewhat Walkable
Walk Score®
69/ 100
Some Transit
Transit Score®
47/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
