Ensconced within the low rolling hills of east-central Texas, Brenham was originally part of the Old Three Hundred colonization of Anglo-Americans in the early 19th century. German immigrants began settling in the area in 1846, and their influence can still be felt throughout, particularly during the annual Maifest celebration. The town’s 17,000 residents are also fiercely proud to live near the headquarters of Blue Bell Creameries. “That is our claim to fame,” says Mandy Wood, Realtor with Coldwell Banker Properties Unlimited. “We have a lot of local pride in our ice cream. You can’t leave that out, or you might have some people upset.” The brand takes its name from the lapis-hued blooms that paint the surrounding landscape in early spring. “The bluebonnet is the Texas state flower, and we are one of the best places to view those,” Wood says.
Brenham combines small-town charm with Blue Bell’s rich history.
The Heritage Museum in Brenham showcases local history and culture.
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Home of Blue Bell Creameries
Manufacturing is a key player in the industrial landscape. Blue Bell Creameries employs about 1,000 people, making it the city’s largest employer as well as a local institution. Mattress giant Tempur & Sealy and Valmont Industries, a metal pole manufacturer, also have plants in Brenham.
US Route 290 passes through town, leading 75 miles east to Houston and 90 miles west to Austin. Major airports serve both cities, but Easterwood Airport in College Station is 40 miles away and offers daily direct flights to Dallas-Fort Worth.
Brenham’s location along major highways makes it ideal for industrial growth and logistics.
Brenham's proximity to Houston and Austin helps attract businesses to the industrial park.
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Median home prices low by state and national standards
Brenham’s median home price of $290,000 is low compared to the state median and far lower than the national median of $407,000. Buyers have numerous options, from vintage mid-20th century homes to modern contemporary builds from Stylecraft and D.R. Horton. Prices start around $200,000 to $250,000 for older homes, climbing to $275,000 to $350,000 for new construction in neighborhoods like Vintage Farms and Liberty Village. Larger new or remodeled homes might cost $400,000 to $500,000. On the outskirts of town, luxury homes on sprawling properties can cost $750,000 to $1 million.
Brenham offers a mix of historic homes and new builds in a charming small-town setting.
Many of Brenham's luxurious homes sit on large lots with open green spaces.
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The first established public school district in Texas
The Brenham Independent School District earns a B-plus from Niche and holds the distinction of being the first established public school district in Texas. Blinn College, the oldest county-owned junior college in the state, has a campus in Brenham that includes a technical school.
Blinn College, located in Brenham, is a renowned institution with rich history.
Brenham High epitomizes academic excellence.
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Historic cisterns in Downtown Brenham
A stroll through Downtown Brenham’s narrow streets reveals vibrant murals around every corner and glimpses into the city’s past. Toubin Park, a pocket-sized nook lined with brick, displays working cisterns that date to the late 1800s. Bookstores, boutiques, steakhouses and smokehouses are tucked into old train depots and other historic buildings. Many businesses still evoke the German influence that helped shape the city. Brenham Crossing, a new shopping complex along Route 290, has been dubbed “the Strip” by locals.
colorful murals are spread through out downtowns buildings.
The cities parks have sports fields and open green spaces.
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Celebrating Brenham’s German heritage
Rotating exhibits at the Brenham Heritage Museum allow visitors to explore regional history. Maifest, an event that dates to 1881 and honors Brenham’s German roots, brings parades, pageantry and pilsner to Fireman’s Park on the first weekend in May. “The local school-aged kiddos participate,” Wood says. “I did when I was growing up here. They can be part of the parade and the coronation of the Maifest king and queen.”
The Heritage Museum a great place to learn about Brenham's role in Texas history.
The museum focuses on Brenham's past and Washington County.
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Nature trails and the Brenham Family Park project
Numerous trails wind through the city’s parks, making walking and biking popular pastimes. The Brenham Family Park project, slated for completion by May 2027, should introduce more scenic exercise paths to the system. Somerville Lake is about 20 miles away and offers opportunities for boating, fishing and hunting.
Brenham’s crime rate and environmental concerns
According to reports from the City of Brenham Police Department, Brenham’s overall crime rate rose 10 percent from 2021 to 2022. During the same period, the crime rate in Texas rose by about 7 percent.
Summers in Brenham are long and sweltering, stretching from May through October and reaching temperatures in the high 90s. During hot weather, algal blooms have been known to occur in the city’s water supply.
Written By
Adrienne Ryan
Photography Contributed By
Robert Pierce
Video By
Brian Bernhard
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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Rare find located near Brenham’s Downtown Historic District.Remarkable 1886 historic estate,originally crafted by German heritage,offers an opportunity to own a true piece of Texas history.Nestled on a beautifully treed .97-acre homesite,this grand residence spans over 3,400SF & has been restored to showcase its timeless architectural beauty while blending modern comfort in the expansive living &
Set on approximately 23.15 acres, this Brenham property features a scenic pond with a custom, old-world-style stone bridge, waterfall, and creek-style water features. The bridge spans the pond and leads to a small island shaded by mature oak trees. Gently sloping grassy banks, natural stone accents, and stone walkways create a private, park-like setting. The main residence offers classic Hill
This inviting home is ideally located in the heart of Brenham, offering convenient access to shopping, downtown Brenham, and Hwy 290. Step into the charming living room, which flows seamlessly into the dining area and kitchen for an open, welcoming feel. Three bedrooms and two bathrooms are situated just off the main living space, with the hallway circling back to the kitchen for easy access
Beautiful 4-bedroom home with the option of a 5th bedroom, tucked away at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac in Brenham. This all-stone exterior home sits on a .31-acre lot and offers exceptional indoor and outdoor living. The spacious living room is filled with natural light and features vaulted ceilings and a striking stone wood-burning fireplace with built-ins. The kitchen opens to the dining area
Welcome to this solid, all-brick home nestled on a peaceful, quiet street. Situated on a generous lot. Offers both curb appeal and room to grow. Conveniently located only minutes away to Brenham’s Hospital & Medical Professional buildings; a Super-Sized HEB & Walmart; and your favorite Chains of Restaurants. Home Depot & Lowe’s only blocks away and many retail & medical facilities close by. A
Beautifully updated home in the highly sought-after Gun and Rod Circle area of Brenham. This property offers 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 2 half baths, an office, and two spacious living areas. The primary suite is located downstairs with double closets, double sinks, a walk-in shower, and a separate garden tub. Upstairs features two additional bedrooms—one with its own half bath and the second with
Situated on a large corner lot in the heart of historic Downtown Brenham, this charming 3 bed/2 bath home offers a delightful mix of new and old. The exterior maintains its vintage charm while the interior lends a more contemporary feel, characterized by clean lines & neutral colors. The kitchen is highlighted by stainless steel appliances, white cabinets, a single basin sink with an
Spacious 4-bedroom, 2-bath home in Brenham’s Scenic Estates Neighborhood. Situated on a large lot with two entrances, offering added flexibility and access. Enjoy outdoor living with a private pool and hot tub, ideal for relaxing or entertaining. This house is ready for its next owner. Do not miss this opportunity. Schedule a showing today.
Move in now to this Perfect Blend of Comfort and Style in Brenham, Home of Blue Bell Ice Cream!Nestled on a charming corner lot under the shade of magnificent oak trees, this beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers an inviting haven in a desirable location. Featuring a spacious living area that flows from the open-concept kitchen, this home is perfect for both entertaining and
Located approximately three miles from Brenham, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home is situated on a 1-acre lot on a low-traffic road. The property offers convenient access to town while providing a rural setting. The home features an open-concept layout with a living room, dining area, and kitchen. The kitchen includes ample counter space and cabinetry. A split-bedroom floor plan provides separation
Nestled on 6.77 acres but can be replatted to 10-acres or possibly more. This custom-built home offers the perfect setting of privacy and big sky entertaining. This 2 story 4-bedroom, 3.5 bath design features a gourmet kitchen, walk-in pantry, first floor Primary Suite. The living area has wood floors, a stone fireplace large windows that fill this space with natural light and showcase an open
Nestled in the heart of historic Brenham, Texas, this distinctive property features three individual units, offering a total of six bedrooms, three bathrooms, and three fully equipped kitchens. A charming front porch welcomes you home and provides the perfect place to relax and enjoy the soft Texas breeze. The main floor showcases a spacious living area ideal for hosting family and friends,
Super charming farmhouse-style home now available for lease! This inviting residence offers 3 spacious bedrooms and 2 full baths. Enjoy an open-concept layout that seamlessly connects the kitchen, living, and dining areas—perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. The kitchen boasts granite countertops, a stylish tiled backsplash, and stainless-steel appliances including a stove,
This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home boasts wood floors throughout, creating a warm and modern feel. The kitchen features stainless-steel appliances and recessed lighting, offering both style and functionality. The open-concept layout seamlessly connects the living, dining, and kitchen areas, flooding the space with natural light. The primary bedroom includes a private bath for added convenience and
AVAILABLE FOR A MARCH 15TH MOVE-IN!Beautiful luxury 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment featuring quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, washer/dryer connections, private patios and balconies. Pet-Friendly with an on-site dog park. Small dogs and cats are welcome! Come take a look!$1350 per month with a $400 depositGreat location conveniently located near shopping,
Luxury fully furnished 2-bedroom residence overlooking the Brenham Courthouse Square. Set in a charming 100-year-old downtown building, this light-filled home features exposed brick walls, tall ceilings, and large windows that capture iconic courthouse views. The space is thoughtfully furnished for comfort and style, offering a move-in-ready experience that feels both elevated and welcoming. Step
North Park Apartments is a quaint, 26-unit residential complex near Historic Downtown Brenham. Located at 910 North Park St., the community is adjacent to the beautiful Henderson Park and across the street from Fireman’s Park, which features an elaborate children’s playground, antique carousel, skate park and Brenham’s Nancy Carol Roberts Memorial Library. North Park Apartments is minutes away
Brick home in the country! This is a 2 bedroom with a 3rd bedroom in the converted garage, 2 full bathrooms. No close neighbors, large yard, easy access to and from town. Only the land within the home's fenced yard is included with the lease. Pets are considered case by case with a pet deposit of $500 required. The detached garage is NOT included in the lease and it is utilized by the property
Brenham Oaks brings you convenience and comfort at an affordable price. Whether you want to stroll through a park, visit the Blue Bell Creamery, or enjoy one of the many local restaurants, everything you need is just minutes away! Our spacious 2 and 3-bedroom floor plans were designed with you in mind featuring walk-in closets, washer and dryer connections, and energy-efficient all-electric
Spacious layout. Ceiling fans. Big inside bathroom. 2nd bath is in laundry/utility room off garage. Covered patio. Fenced yard. 1 car garage - 2 car driveway with 2 car carport plus another single drive on opposite side for boat/trailer parking.
More Space Than an Apartment Less Than the Cost of a House! This exceptionally spacious 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo offers a true home-style layout rarely found in traditional apartments. With a large kitchen, separate breakfast area, oversized living room, and generously sized bedrooms, you'll enjoy room to spread out, work from home, and entertain comfortably.The unit includes
Like new DR Horton Home in the Liberty Village Subdivision in Brenham. This move-in ready recent build features the Roosevelt open floorplan with 1605 SF. It offers 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, an open-concept Living/Kitchen/Dining Area, and a generous sized laundry room. There is a covered back patio and privacy fenced yard. Standard two car garage with remote opener, full sodded yard with sprinkler
Property Id: 604816Cute 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom with small private office area in quiet Brenham Tx. Close to downtown Brenham, Hwy 290, and State Hwy 36. Walking distance to a park.Fenced in back yard. Hardwood floors, updated windows, Washer/dryer/refrigerator/dishwasher included. Security Deposit and Background Screening required. Only applications sent from the Landlord
Beautiful duplex located in a quite neighborhood. Recently updated, with possibly more upgrades on the way. One car garage, ceiling fans throughout. Carpet, wood and tile flooring.
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