Suburbia meets a hub for Houston’s energy industry
Green hiking trails, dozens of shops and restaurants, and massive employment hubs -- Briar Forest, one of Houston’s so-called super neighborhoods, lives up to its “super” title. The neighborhood is bordered by the sloping hiking trails of Terry Hershey Park to the north and the busy shopping hub of Westheimer Road to the south. The community is neighbors with the Energy Corridor business district, and the headquarters for global energy company Phillips 66 and the CityWestPlace business campus are based directly in Briar Forest. This mix of employment opportunities, recreation and suburban atmosphere amid the metro have made this West Houston neighborhood a long-standing favorite for locals. “The area is very consistent; it’s always been consistent for probably 50 to 100 years,” says Melanie White, a Realtor with REMAX who grew up in the neighboring community of Memorial. “West Houston had such a long-standing history of success and it’s withheld the test of time. People seem to like established neighborhoods that aren’t going to turn or change.”
Briar Forest Drive is a main conduit connecting residents to businesses and work.
Take a ride on one of the many bike trails around Briar Forest.
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Simple ranches and elaborate villas alike fill Briar Forest
Briar Forest has a diverse array of architectural styles, ranging from stately brick Colonial Revival and Tudor Revival-inspired properties to postmodern constructions and minimalistic raised ranches. This eclectic mix of homes sits on manicured blocks with large front yards connected by sidewalks. Many residences also have wide back patios with in-ground pools and shaded sitting areas. Single-family properties range between $400,000 to $700,000. A few select Briar Forest homeowners invest in luxury estates, which range from rustic cabin-inspired builds for $1 million to sprawling 10,000-square-foot villas for over $7 million.
One-story residences are found throughout Briar Forest.
Several Briar Forest residences boast elegant fountains that bring beauty to their front lawn.
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Houston Schools focus on STEM and STEAM
The Houston Independent School District covers the Briar Forest area, and some local options include “school within a school” magnet programs. Shadowbriar Elementary School scores a C-plus on Niche and has a STEAM magnet program. Paul Revere Middle School, which Niche gives a C, has a STEM magnet program for students interested in advanced science and math coursework. Students can continue their magnet education with STEM classes at Westside High School, which has an A-minus score on Niche. Westside students can also enroll in the Futures Academy, where they can earn college credit through Houston Community College. The college’s Alief Haynes campus is within Briar Forest.
Briar Forest students can continue to grow their educations at Paul Revere Middle School.
Westside High School in Briar Forest students offered a world class education.
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Hikers and bikers explore Terry Hershey Park’s trails
Part of the Terry Hershey Park runs along the northern side of Briar Forest, creating a scenic patch of green space that is a favorite among locals. “It’s very desirable for the location, the bayou, walking trails, the community,” White says. The portion of the park that intersects with Briar Forest offers two trails on either side of the park’s waterway. Anthills Trail is a twisting route that is a prime destination for mountain bikers, while the tamer Buffalo Bayou Bike Trail is ideal for hikers. Terry Hershey Park passes by Lakeside Country Club on Lakeside Forest Lane, a members-only facility with an 18-hole golf course, a dozen tennis courts and multiple pools.
Briar Forest residents can head over to Terry Hersey Park for a day in the sun.
Get out for a day in the sun on the golf course at Lakeside Country Club in Briar Forest.
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Shopping trips and dinner out on Westheimer Road
Westheimer Road, a major thoroughfare that runs along the south of the neighborhood, is a primary shop for local shops and restaurants. Large grocery stores like H-E-B, Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods can all be found along this street, as well as specialty markets like Phoenicia Specialty Foods and Daido Market. These food shops are located alongside retail stores like Kohl’s, Marshalls and Shoe Carnival, and several chain and local restaurants. Some standout eateries are La Pasha Lounge & Grill, a Middle Eastern restaurant with weekly live music performances, and Izakaya Hi, a spin on a popular type of Japanese socialization spot where guests can eat fresh sushi and perform in a private karaoke room.
Residents of Briar Forest relish the distinctive charm and variety found at Trader Joe's.
Whole Foods Market in Briar Forest offers premium organic and plant-based groceries.
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Ride METRO drives straight to CityWestPlace
Briar Forest is less than 10 miles via Westpark Tollway from the Uptown Galleria District and 17 miles to downtown Houston via Sam Houston Tollway and Interstate 10. The neighborhood also has several Ride METRO stops, including on major streets like Westheimer Road and City Place Drive, where Phillips 66 and CityWestPlace are located. Briar Forest is also less than 2 miles from two large medical facilities -- HCA Houston Healthcare West on Richmond Avenue and Nexus Children’s Hospital Houston on Woodland Park Drive.
Phillips 66 has its corporate headquarters in Briar Forest.
Catch a METRO bus if you are running late to work in Briar Forest.
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
The overall safety of the community has been a growing concern over the last couple of years, as crime to me has risen a little bit and the police are hardly around unless something big is happening. I think the security could be better around here, but all crews will be around if absolutely needed
3.0Niche User
6/23/2014Niche Review
The parks near by that i have visited are clean and well kept
4.0Niche User
5/19/2015Niche Review
I always receive good service at all of my local shops.
3.0Niche User
6/23/2014Niche Review
The people around me stick to their self and are not very friendly.
Are you familiar with the Briar Forest neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Briar Forest
US
Homicide
4
4
Sexual Assault
4
4
Assault with Weapon
4
4
Robbery
4
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
4
4
Larceny
4
4
Crime Score
4
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Briar Forest Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Briar Forest, Houston sell after 49 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Briar Forest, Houston over the last 12 months is $428,750, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Wonderful extensively updated home located in desirable Walnut Bend on a corner lot. Major improvements include: PEX interior plumbing, new underground sewer lines('23), replaced windows, new brick exterior & driveway('23), water heater('21), updated electrical. Charming curb appeal w/fresh landscaping. A spacious entry welcomes you! Oversized living room w/cozy fireplace; room for multiple
Located on the north side of Briargrove Park, 10042 Valley Forge is a beautifully updated home that has been thoughtfully reimagined for modern living. Offering 4 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms, the current fourth bedroom is being utilized as a private office, ideal for today’s flexible lifestyle. A spacious flex room off the main living area provides the perfect space for a playroom, media room,
Cheryl FordMartha Turner Sotheby's International Realty
Tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac along a family-friendly street, this beautifully refreshed4- bed, 2.5-bath residence in Lakeside Estates blends timeless elegance with modern comfort.Freshly painted interiors and brand-new carpet set the tone for an inviting open layout featuring a spacious living area with custom built-ins and a stately fireplace. The kitchen impresses with sleek quartz
Welcome to 1532 Prairie Grove Dr, nestled in the desirable Walkers Mark community. This 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath home offers a functional layout with spacious living areas, soaring ceilings, wood-look floors, and a cozy fireplace. The kitchen features granite counters, stainless steel appliances, and an adjacent dining room. The primary suite boasts a screened-in balcony, walk-in closet, and an
Gated community, modern 2/2 condo. End unit with balcony looking out to park. Well maintained, no carpet. Features high ceilings, double sided fireplace, granite counters, Large walk-in showers in each bath. Refrigerator, washer and dryer included. One car garage with auto opener. Lot's of nature light and park view.
Jay Floyd
American Republic Realty & Mortgage Services, Inc.
Discover the perfect blend of refined style and everyday comfort at 210 Big Hollow Lane in the established Lakeside Forest community. This inviting home offers timeless character, spacious living areas, and a functional layout for both entertaining and daily life. Highlights include a dedicated office, generously sized secondary bedrooms, and a private primary retreat with an expansive walk-in
Opportunity awaits at 12238 Briar Forest Dr! This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers incredible potential for those looking to renovate and create their ideal space. Nestled in a desirable West Houston location, the property sits on a spacious lot with mature trees and great curb appeal. Inside, you’ll find a functional layout ready for your vision—whether modernizing for personal use or as an
Quietly situated AWAY FROM THE HIGHWAY and NEVER FLOODED. Wood flooring throughout first and second floors. Built-in living room storage with DRY BAR + WINE FRIDGE. Classic WOOD-BURNING FIREPLACE. Functional layout with separate dining area and SOUTHWEST-FACING natural light. TWO TRUE PRIMARY SUITES upstairs with ENSUITE BATHROOMS. Updated baths with GRANITE COUNTERTOPS and modern finishes.
Location Location Location. Immaculate one story condo nestled in the tranquil Southlake Community located in Houston's Energy Corridor. Home is move in ready. Features include updated countertops and kitchen cabinets, stainless steel stove, microwave and dishwasher. Great flowing floor plan, plenty of storage and the best part is location. You're in close proximity to some of Houston's best
10,727 SF CORNER LOT in Houston’s Energy Corridor!!! Beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home with 2 car garage. From the moment you arrive, the oversized lot and curb appeal make a lasting impression. Inside, the bright open-concept layout connects the family room, dining, & kitchen. Perfect for both everyday living & entertaining. The kitchen is a standout with a 9x4 island, quartz
Spacious 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath home located in the established Lakeside Forest neighborhood. Offering 3,294 sq ft, this two-story property features a functional layout with the primary bedroom on the first floor and four additional bedrooms upstairs. Large living areas and abundant natural light create comfortable spaces for everyday living and entertaining. The kitchen includes a breakfast area
Nestled in sought-after Country Village, this exquisite home boasts a spacious primary suite with dedicated HVAC, walk-in shower, garden-view tub, and walk-in closet. An inner patio provides a private outdoor retreat, while the roof, gutters, and stamped concrete patio are recently updated. Enjoy natural light in the 18-foot cathedral ceiling space with double-pane windows, updated flooring, and
Welcome home to this stunning 2-story, 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath townhouse featuring an inviting open layout and a cozy private patio with extra storage. Enjoy a spacious living area and two generously sized bedrooms upstairs—each with its own private bath for added comfort and convenience. Comes with 2 assigned parking spaces, one covered and one uncovered. Perfectly situated close to dining,
Modern living meets prime location in this brand-new townhome with park views, located in a gated Energy Corridor community with a low ~2.0% tax rate perfect for first-time homebuyers seeking a starter home, as well as investors or Airbnb opportunities. Step inside to a light-filled open-concept layout connecting the kitchen, dining & living areas with large windows bringing in natural light. The
Charming single-family home situated on a quiet residential street in a well-established neighborhood. This property features a traditional exterior with a spacious driveway and attached garage. The interior offers a functional floor plan with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, providing comfortable living spaces throughout. The kitchen includes ample cabinetry and counter space, opening to a
A stunning, fully remodeled contemporary home is offered for LEASE. Situated on one of the largest lots in a quiet cul-de-sac, this home features a spacious, light-filled open floor plan with soaring ceilings—prime location in the heart of the Energy Corridor with easy access to freeways and shopping. Highlights include an oversized primary bedroom with an adjoining study. All NEW upgrades
Location, location, location. Immaculate one story condo nestled in the tranquil Southlake Community located in Houston's Energy Corridor. Home is move in ready. Features include updated countertops and kitchen cabinets, stainless steel stove, microwave and dishwasher. Great flowing floor plan, plenty of storage and the best part is location. You're in close proximity to some of Houston's best
This beautifully maintained Mid-Century Modern home in Walnut Bend offers a rare blend of architectural character and thoughtful updates. The home features extra living room space, fresh paint, and well-cared-for systems and finishes throughout.A spacious screened-in porch creates true indoor–outdoor living, connecting the home to a large backyard and green space—perfect for relaxing or
Centrally located, this 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home with pool and hot tub truly has it all. The open floor plan features beautiful wood floors, with tile in the kitchen and baths, and carpet in one bedroom. The vaulted-ceiling den offers stunning views of the backyard retreat, complete with a covered patio perfect for relaxing or entertaining.The spacious primary suite includes a sitting area or
Unique custom contemporary, designed for executive lifestyle living on the lake! A pristine pool, multiple decks, outdoor kitchen, bar, keg & pizza stations all enhanced by cascade lighting! Play a Bocce-ball game or jump in the paddle boat for fun & fishing! A perfect home for entertaining, with a huge 2 story living area and wall of French Doors to enjoy the breathtaking 57 feet of lakefront
Updated 2-story condo in a gated community. Tile flooring throughout (no carpet). Updated kitchen with granite counters, ample cabinets, under-mount lighting, stainless steel sink, dishwasher, and refrigerator. Stackable washer/dryer convey. Open-concept living area with wood-burning fireplace and new ceiling fans throughout.Upstairs features a den/home office, spacious bedroom with two
REDUCED & READY FOR MOVE-IN, One Story brick home located in the North Section of Walnut Bend. 3 large Bedrooms & 2.5 Baths & 2 Car Attached Garage. A Country Kitchen with fridge opens to the bright breakfast room. Add'l storage at the huge granite work counter separating it from the Formal Dining area.The massive family room has an impressive fireplace/mantle, surrounded by Built-in
Welcome to 1532 Prairie Grove Dr, nestled in the desirable Walkers Mark community. This 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath home offers a functional layout with spacious living areas, soaring ceilings, wood-look floors, and a cozy fireplace. The kitchen features granite counters, stainless steel appliances, and an adjacent dining room. The primary suite boasts a screened-in balcony, walk-in closet, and an
Nestled in the vibrant Westchase District, Folio West offers upscale 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom residences with seamless access to major highways, premier shopping at CityCentre, and top employers like Phillips 66. This luxury community blends urban convenience with resort-style amenities, including a sparkling pool with cabanas and outdoor kitchens, a 24-hour fitness center, pet-friendly spaces with
Live the way you've always wanted without compromising style or quality. At Emory West Cypress, our apartment residences are designed with you in mind. Now you really can have it all . . . lifestyle included.
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