Set on Upper Galveston Bay, about 25 miles east of Downtown Houston, Baytown is known primarily as an oil city. It was officially founded in 1948 by combining three smaller oil towns, and today, over 84,000 people call Baytown home. Many residents work at local petrochemical and oil plants, including the largest ExxonMobil refinery in the U.S. and the Cedar Crossing Industrial Park, the largest industrial park on the Gulf Coast. “Baytown is truly a global industry powerhouse, and our community has a rich industrial heritage,” says Jason Calder, Baytown’s communications manager.
But the city isn’t only defined by its industry. With plenty of water nearby, Baytown is well-suited for kayaking, fishing and boating, and its wetlands attract hundreds of species of birds. And its downtown is emerging as a cultural district, with art events and multiple performance venues.
Many Baytown residents work in the nearby oil refineries.
A Baytown fishing guide steers his boat toward the dock.
Baytown Nature Center offers residents a place to kick back and take in nature.
Baytown residents enjoy a variety of watersports.
1/4
Birding at Baytown Nature Center
Baytown is fronted by bays, creeks and bayous, making fishing, boating and other watersports a part of everyday life. The city is home to 50 parks, with many centered around water. The 500-acre Baytown Nature Center features fishing piers and miles of biking and walking trails like the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail, with over 300 species of birds. Baytown also has multiple family-friendly waterparks and pools, including Pirates Bay and Calypso Cove. Public golf courses include Tabbs Bay Golf Course. There’s a Showbiz Cinemas with an IMAX theater off Interstate 10.
Located on the banks of Burnet Bay, a walking pier is available for residents of Lynchburg.
Baytown Nature Center is not to be missed if in the area.
A fisherman cleans his catch at a public boat ramp in Evergreen Fairways.
Hike scenic trails, explore wetlands, and bike through the Baytown Nature Preserve.
1/4
Emerging arts scene in downtown Baytown
The city’s Arts, Culture and Entertainment Council has worked to amplify the arts scene in Baytown’s small, vibrant downtown, centered around Town Square park. “We formed seven years ago to help bring more people downtown, and it worked,” says Yvonne Thomas, a local artist and president of the Arts, Culture and Entertainment Council. “We hold all types of events like art walks, a Latin festival, Oktoberfest [and] a Christmas on Texas Avenue festival.” Downtown features arts-focused attractions like the Art Alley, a street blanketed in colorful murals and floating umbrellas, and the Baytown Sculpture Trail, which covers four blocks of Texas Avenue. Baytown Little Theater, Lee College Performing Arts Center and the Art League of Baytown also add to the city’s cultural scene.
A Baytown family enjoys the murals located in the downtown art district.
Baytown has a deep appreciation for art.
Baytown Art League has been in operations for decades.
A Baytown artist's work entitled "I wanna go home" is pictured.
1/4
Dining along Alexander Drive
Downtown Baytown has multiple bars, small coffee shops and cafes along Main Street and West Texas Avenue. Most of the city’s restaurants are along Alexander Drive, Market Street and Garth Road, with small Mexican, Cuban, Caribbean and Indian eateries as well as fast-food chains. Garth Road is also lined with shopping centers, large grocery stores and medical offices. San Jacinto Marketplace is under construction on 105 acres along I-10 and will be a major shopping and dining area when it opens, scheduled for 2028.
Starbucks, located a short drive from Lynchburg, offers hot coffee and fresh pastries.
Kroger is one of several grocery stores located in Baytown.
There are several shopping centers in Baytown.
Residents of Lynchburg can run by nearby Buc-ee's for fuel and snacks.
1/4
Well-rated schools in Goose Creek CISD
Baytown students attend schools in the Goose Creek Consolidated Independent School District, which holds a B-plus rating from Niche. The district has 29 schools, with three new elementary schools and a district-wide robotics center. Impact Early College High School is one of Goose Creek CISD’s highest-rated schools, and the only district high school to have an A rating from Niche. Lee College, which shares a campus with Impact Early College, is a community college located in downtown Baytown.
Lee College is located in Baytown, TX.
Located near Lynchburg, Robert E. Lee High School offers a diverse range of academic programs.
Alamo Elementary School offers classes for grades K-5 for the greater Baytown area of Texas.
Gentry Junior High School offers classes for grades 6-8 in the greater Baytown area.
1/4
Median home price lower than Houston
In September 2024, the median home price in Baytown was around $260,000, below the median price for Houston, which was $336,000. Smaller homes from the 1940s to the 60s are located in and around downtown, starting from around $80,000 for fixer-uppers up to about $250,000 for renovated homes. Larger, newer homes tend to populate the city north of downtown, where prices range from about $215,000 to the mid-$400,000s. New construction is less common, but homes are rising in Rollingbrook Estates subdivision, with prices from $250,000 to $350,000.
Single family homes are becoming more prevalent in the Baytown area.
A row of traditional style homes accompany a quiet street in Baytown.
A row of two story homes sit along a quiet cul-de-sac road in Baytown.
A single story home sits underneath mature trees in Baytown, Texas.
1/4
Over the Fred Hartman Bridge to Houston
Baytown residents can use Texas State Highway 146 and the Fred Hartman Bridge to reach the south side of Houston. Texas State Highway 330 and Interstate 10 provide a direct route to downtown Houston, about 25 miles west. Harris County METRO operates the Baytown Park and Ride, where commuters can take an express bus route into downtown Houston. Baytown has an airport for private planes; Houston’s William P. Hobby Airport is a 25-mile drive, and the George Bush Intercontinental Airport is 35 miles away. There are three major hospitals in the city, including BMC Baytown Hospital.
The Fred Hartman bridge has come to be a staple of the Baytown area.
Downtown Houston can be seen from Midtown.
George Bush Intercontinental Airport is located just a short drive from East Aldine.
Various bus stops are located throughout the area in Mount Houston.
1/4
Baytown’s risk of chemical emissions and crime data
Baytown has hot summers with temperatures in the 90s and mild winters with lows in the 40s. Wind coming off the bay makes Baytown less humid than other areas near Houston. However, because it’s next to water, the city is frequently hit hard during storm season, and Hurricanes Carla, Alicia, Ike and Harvey heavily damaged Baytown. The city’s industry also poses some risks. There have been hundreds of chemical releases and fires in Baytown since 2015, including a 2019 explosion at the ExxonMobil plant that injured 66 people. The local government provides all residents with information on emergency preparedness, especially for hurricanes and chemical accidents.
Baytown’s violent crime rate has inched upward since a city-wide low in 2017 but is still far lower than the historic highs reported in the 1990s. According to local police data, over 6,000 total crimes were reported in 1990, compared to 3,361 total crimes in 2023. Of those, 1,930 were for theft/larceny.
Written By
Delaney Murray
Video By
Mary Desmond
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
GayLynn Milliorn,
an experienced agent in this area.
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
On average, homes in Baytown, TX sell after 132 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Baytown, TX over the last 12 months is $260,000, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
REMARKABLE NEW D.R. HORTON 5 BEDROOM IN THE RIVERSIDE ESTATES COMMUNITY! LOCATED ON HUGE 80' HOMESITE! 3 CAR GARAGE! FEATURES TWO BEDROOMS DOWN, MEDIA ROOM, HOME OFFICE AND GAMEROOM!! Fantastic Floorplan Perfect for Entertaining! This Unbelievable Property is Filled with Designer Details and Offers Tons of Options for Modern Day Living! Wonderful Island Kitchen with SO Much Storage and Amazing
UNBELIEVABLE NEW D.R. HORTON 4 BEDROOM ONE STORY IN THE RIVERSIDE ESTATES COMMUNITY! LOCATED ON HUGE HOMESITE! 3 CAR GARAGE! AMAZING Floorplan Perfect for Entertaining! Fantastic Gameroom/Flexroom Space Can Also Serve as a Home Office! This Lovely Home is Filled with Designer Details and Offers Tons of Options for Modern Day Living! Wonderful Island Kitchen with SO Much Storage and Amazing
Ranch home! The Sabine plan by CastleRock Communities! Enjoy your spacious patio! This one-story open layout offers a 21⁄2-car garage, sprinkler system & more! Grand entry showcases luxury vinyl plank rigid core flooring throughout! Bright home office with walls of windows! Expansive family room flows into the gourmet kitchen & casual dining. Gourmet kitchen boasts tall white shaker cabinets,
Gayla GaydenRealm Real Estate Professionals - Katy
Homes on quiet cul-de-sacs in Barbers Hill ISD with no MUD tax don’t last long—especially when they offer flexible living space and a great backyard. This inviting 3–4 bedroom home features an open-concept layout with high ceilings that create a bright and welcoming feel, perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. The kitchen offers plenty of cabinet and counter space and flows easily
Discover 4705 Meadowood, a home where smart improvements and classic style come together. The traditional red brick exterior delivers lasting curb appeal and a welcoming presence from the street. Inside, soaring ceilings and generous natural light enhance the open design, creating a space that feels bright, comfortable, and connected. The kitchen is appointed with custom Corian countertops and
This charming Baytown property is truly move-in ready and packed with features designed for comfort and enjoyment. The open-concept home showcases a kitchen with custom cabinets, granite countertops, and breakfast bar. There's even room for a breakfast table. The family room has a wood-burning fireplace, laminate and tile flooring throughout the main areas. An extra living space provides
Set on nearly 8 acres in Baytown, Texas, this custom-built home offers an ideal blend of space, comfort, and privacy. The thoughtfully designed floor plan features a spacious primary suite downstairs and three additional bedrooms upstairs — each with its own ensuite bath and walk-in closet. The chef’s kitchen is a true centerpiece, boasting stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and a
Olga Lozano
Nan & Company Properties - Corporate Office (Heights)
Fantastic opportunity to own this brick 3 bed/2 full bath is highly desired Lakewood! Extended living space. Primary with en suite bath. Kitchen has granite counters and pantry. Sprawling lot situated on one of the best spots in the neighborhood! No HOA, however, Lakewood does offer Boat Club and ramp access! Check out the 360 Virtual Tour Link!
Charming three-bedroom, two-bath home in Baytown’s established Pinehurst subdivision. Enjoy peace of mind with a 4-year-old roof, a 5-year-old water heater, and a 6-year-old HVAC system. Interior updates completed in 2019 include new flooring, paint, electrical panel, smoke detectors, toilet, tub, fixtures, as well as a Whirlpool dishwasher and range. The home features a spacious living room, a
FOR SALE OR LEASE! Lovely 4 bedroom townhome with one bedroom down plus larger primary bedroom up, 2 full baths and covered assigned parking. Nicely updated with neutral paint and wood look LVP flooring. Ready for immediate move in!
Nestled along the bayou, this charming home brings you 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and a 2-car garage on almost 1 acre of land. The inviting living room features a cozy fireplace, while the spacious back deck with a barbecue nook is perfect for outdoor gatherings. With vacation-like views and endless comfort possibilities, this property offers a great location with quick access to all city amenities
Welcome home to this beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath home nestled in a quiet Baytown community. The home features a welcoming dining room at the front of the house with breakfast area in the kitchen. Inside you'll find new flooring throughout, along with recently installed cabinets and granite countertops that give the kitchen a fresh, modern feel. Solar panels provide energy efficiency and
Welcome home to this well-maintained three-bedroom, two-bath home. The home features a great open floor plan that offers seamless flow between the living and kitchen, a formal dining room and a covered back porch --perfect for everyday living and entertaining. The split floor plan and laundry room location provide convivence. Located with easy access to Interstate 10 and Highway 146, this home
Move-in ready two-story 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers a functional and spacious layout with the primary suite conveniently located on the first floor and a large game room upstairs. The inviting living area features a corner stone fireplace and flows seamlessly into an updated kitchen with granite countertops, natural stone backsplash, and a freestanding range. Tile flooring and crown molding
CARRIE NELSON
Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Gary Greene - Bay Area
Welcome Home! This fully renovated 2-story home offers 5 beds, 2.5 baths. The 1st floor features sleek black tile flowing through the entire home! The kitchen boasts black cabinets w/ gold hardware, a white backsplash, & a gold-finish sink overlooking the living area. The primary bedroom includes a striking black-and-gold accent wall, pendant lighting, & modern ceiling fan, while the ensuite
Welcome to 503 Thunder Cloud Dr in the desirable Mont Belvieu area, a beautifully maintained home tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac in the Rain Tree subdivision. This modern residence offers a spacious open-concept layout with 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms, filled with natural light and designed for comfortable everyday living. Built in 2021, the home features contemporary finishes, a two-car
Lovely 4 bedroom townhome with one bedroom down plus larger primary bedroom up, 2 full baths and covered assigned parking. Nicely updated with neutral paint and wood look LVP flooring. Ready for immediate move in!
Welcome to Your New Home at 1305 Memorial, Baytown! Amazing value. Gas & Water included. Electricity up to 75 dollar/month is included in the lease. A large spacious bedroom in all of the units. Renovated interior and updated kitchen. Modern tile backsplash. School bus pick-up in front of the building. Beautiful courtyards and outdoor patio area. Check the Laundry facility in the common amenities
Welcome to Your New Home at 1305 Memorial, Baytown! Tenant's Electricity up to $75/month is included in the lease. A large spacious bedroom in all of the units. Ask for availability on 1 BR or 2 BR. Renovated interior and updated kitchen. Modern tile backsplash. School bus pick-up in front of the building. Beautiful courtyards and outdoor patio area. Check the Laundry facility in the common
Welcome to this beautifully updated home with a spacious family room, oversized dining area, and a modern kitchen. The primary bedroom at the back of the house offers a luxurious updated bathroom and ample closet space. Two secondary bedrooms share a bathroom in the front hallway. An additional room off the living room can serve as an office, game room, or extra bedroom. Don't miss out on the
Beautiful 1 bed and 1 bath unit, featuring new flooring with appliances included. This charming abode is perfect for those seeking convenience and comfort. Call the agent for showings and approvals. Its proximity to shopping centers and workplaces ensures you are never far from the essentials. Please verify the measurements and apply using the Link in HAR
Newly updated charming 2 bed 2 bath home in the heart of Baytown.Close proximity to Lee College and access to major freeways just minutes away.Make this your next home in the rapidly growing community of Baytown community right outside of Houston.
Welcome to Sapphire Bay Apartments in Baytown TX Only thirty minutes from downtown Houston, this brand-new community offers ultramodern amenities and unparalleled convenience. Located in charming Baytown, Texas, Sapphire Bay is truly a gem; featuring generously spaced one-, two-, and three-bedroom floor plans and state-of-the-art home amenities like plank-style wood flooring, large
Move in ready! 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home located in a well-established Hunters Chase neighborhood. Conveniently located near Highway 146 and I-10, near shopping, dining, and local entertainment. Inside, you’ll find new vinyl plank flooring throughout the whole home. The kitchen features new granite countertops. This home also has a brand-new roof and fence! This well-maintained home combines
Discover all that awaits at The Barrow! Our new apartments in Baytown, TX will easily suit the needs of every resident. In each of our spacious 1, 2, and 3 bedroom floor plans, residents will find all-new features around every corner and all that they need for a life of ease. Throughout our community, the indoor and outdoor spaces will offer residents the perfect place to spend their days. No
New Construction 3 Bedrooms 2 baths home - Never lived in! Enjoy the comfort of a brand-new property featuring modern finishes and a fresh, clean living space. The landlord will provide a refrigerator, washer, and dryer for your convenience, making move-in easy and hassle-free.
Welcome to The Cottage Green Baytown a charming rental home community designed for comfort, privacy, and modern living. Nestled in a peaceful setting, our homes offer thoughtfully crafted floor plans with spacious interiors and unique outdoor retreats. Whether you're enjoying a private front yard, unwinding in your own fenced backyard, or relaxing under a covered patio, each home is designed to
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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.
