Serving as an entranceway to the San Jacinto Bay and Buffalo Bayou, La Porte, French for “the door," is an apt name for this suburb of Texas where some homes are steps away from Sylvan Beach. "This locale seamlessly combines cost-effective living with top-rated schools, while still being within great proximity to the city,” says Courtney Okanlomo, a Real Estate Broker who runs her own firm in Houston and is an expert in the La Porte area. Though La Porte has a population of over 30,000, Okanlomo shares that’s small for Texas. With its niche shopping, family-centered traditions and amenities, the area has a cozy and neighborly feeling. Residents are also 25 miles from downtown Houston. “People often find themselves here by chance, initially drawn for work but eventually captivated by the area’s proximity to the bay,” Okanlomo adds. Many of these jobs are at chemical plants as La Porte has the largest concentration of them in the world.
Eclectic waterside residences in La Porte
In La Porte, where the average list price is around $330,000, even the entry point for a home with an ocean view can be as low as $240,000. Residences right by Highway 146 can drop to $100,000, while larger waterfront properties may list around $1 million. New construction is common here and homes near the water have their own docks. Architecture ranges from New Traditional and Mission Revival to cozy ranch-style properties, Cape Cods and cottages. Arches, exposed beams and shiplap paneling are common. Streetscapes are suburban but worn by time.
Ranch-style homes are one of the most popular styles in La Porte.
Waterfront homes in La Porte are in high demand.
Newer custom builds are available to purchase in La Porte.
Residential properties in La Porte feature nicely-kept driveways and landscaping.
Homes on stilts are quite common in La Porte.
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La Porte Independent School District
La Porte is served by the La Porte Independent School District. One complete pipeline includes Leo Rizzuto Elementary School, La Porte Junior High School and La Porte High School. The elementary school earns an A rating from Niche, the junior high school scores a B plus and the high school is rated B. All of La Porte ISD’s schools have robotics and STEM Labs — in fact, the robotics club at the high school recently received a $10,000 grant in part from The Harris County Department of Education.
La Porte High School is the largest school in the area.
La Porte Junior High School is a premiere place of learning.
Leo Rizzuto Elementary School has a supportive staff that serves the students of La Porte.
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Explore Sylvan Beach Park for water activities
Sylvan Beach Park has beach fronts and roped-off swimming areas for locals to enjoy. Neighbors can also pay to fish along Sylvan Beach's over 1,000-foot public pier — a common catch is speckled trout. There are also 13 miles of trail in La Porte where residents bike, walk and jog. The trailhead begins at Five Points Town Plaza, an open-air gathering place that was once the center of town in La Porte. Little Cedar Bayou Park has a wave pool, playground, public sports fields and a dog park.
Sylvan Beach Park and Pier is a popular place to visit in La Porte during the summer.
The giant wave pool at Little Cedar Bayou Park is a unique amenity in La Porte.
The playground at Little Cedar Bayou Park in La Porte is fun place to play.
Little Cedar Bayou Park in La Porte has many different activity options.
Head out for pars and swings in La Porte at Bay Forest Golf Course.
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A tradition of fun at Sylvan Beach Festival
Neighbors who’ve lived in La Porte for generations may have memories of the Sylvan Beach Festival that trail back as far as 67 years. Considered a family tradition, this shoreline festival is the longest-running of its kind along the Texas Gulf Coast. Locals expect parades, carnival rides, live music, arts and craft vendors and more each year. Kemah Boardwalk, with its retro amusement park rides and aquarium restaurant, is also 9.5 miles away via Highway 146.
Niche shopping along Main Street
Boutique, antique and resale shops line Main Street. Among them is The Mustard Seed Antiques and Collectibles where locals can buy anything from autographed helmets to used bicycles, vintage kitchen essentials and décor. Eateries, like Ed's Bistro — known for its wine and three-course meals — are also on Main Street. And the wider region of Houston offers plenty to choose from. “I think at one point we had more restaurants per capita than any other area of the country,” says Greg Nino, a Houston local and Realtor with Re/Max Compass. For grocery hauls, Kroger is close by on West Fairmont Parkway.
There is something for everybody at Domensions Comics, Music & More in La Porte.
Ed's Bistro has delicious lunch and dinner options in La Porte.
There are many local restaurant and retail options.
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Navigating La Porte
La Porte is mostly car dependent though depending on location, some locals may be able to walk or bike to a few places, like the beach. The town also has its own airport, the La Porte Municipal Airport. Ellington Airport is also 14 miles away via Fairmont Parkway; William P. Hobby Airport is 21 miles away via Route 225; and Houston George Bush Intercontinental is 38 miles away via Texas 8 Beltway. The Harris County Transit System also runs fixed bus routes through the area. Locals get modestly-priced bayside living with family-friendly amenities in the neighborly town of La Porte.
Written By
Tina Davis
Photography Contributed By
Mitchell Hester
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Jean Summers,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in La Porte, TX sell after 50 days on the market compared to the national average of 50 days. The median sale price for homes in La Porte, TX over the last 12 months is $270,000, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
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Nestled away in a quiet suburb, our community offers an array of amenities including a resort-style swimming pool, elegant resident lounge, and a fully equipped fitness center. If you are searching for a charming one, two, or three bedroom apartment home, Plaza at San Jacinto has what you’re looking for!
This charming 2 BR/2 BA rental offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Nestled in a peaceful setting, the unit features a lovely private patio, providing a serene spot for relaxation or outdoor dining. Inside you will discover a modern kitchen equipped with a Bespoke refrigerator and an in-unit laundry room that's complete with a washer and dryer. With no yard to maintain, you can
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