Located among the tall trees of the Sam Houston National Forest, Cleveland is defined by its countryside that extends from an already rural downtown core. This former railroad town has evolved from a small, 19th-century agricultural settlement into a longstanding community just 20 miles east of Conroe, 35 miles from The Woodlands and 50 miles from Houston. Currently, 9,646 people live in this part of Liberty County, a 22.24% increase from 2020. Most residents are generational and have made their mark. “When you go into town and start meeting people, you will eventually meet the people the streets are named after. They are from Cleveland, and they stay in Cleveland,” says Trisha M. Cranney, a former resident and licensed Realtor since 2014 who works for Anne Vickery & Associates Realty, L.L.C. Employment opportunities in Cleveland center around health services, oil, gas, lumber and farming. The city’s cultural and recreational attractions include the Cleveland Historical Museum, the Locke Surls Center for Art and Nature and Cleveland City Park. Due to its wooded nature, Cleveland has long been a favorite destination for Houstonian campers, hunters and outdoorsy folk.
Cleveland is a city nestle in the Piney Woods of east Southeast Texas.
A mural depicting the towns lumber history is painted on a building at Campbell Park.
Cleveland sits on the edge of the Sam Houston National Forest, an outdoor oasis.
The residents of Cleveland have pride in their community.
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High-speed internet comes to Cleveland
Cleveland's core is gridded, while its outskirts offer country homes on vast acreage. "When I first started in real estate, the mayor was trying to get some of the older people to sell off pieces of their land so they could get some growth," Cranney says. There's currently a ton of land for sale, and Cranney says it's Cleveland's biggest draw. Many of her clients are seeking to build a second home outside the city where they can hunt, fish and ride their four-wheelers. New construction dots the city, but the highest concentration is eastward, in Grand Oaks Reserve, a coveted golf course community. This is one of the only new subdivisions in Cleveland, but the city hopes to attract the kind of development New Caney and Splendora are seeing. A recent initiative they're taking to attract developers is bringing much-needed high-speed internet to the area. The median home price in Cleveland is around $270,000. This is about 23% less than the state average and 34% less than the national average. Housing prices in Cleveland are on par with New Caney and Splendora, but land is often less. "In New Caney or Splendora, you have to pay $85,000 and up for an acre. You can get an acre out in Cleveland for $50,000 to $60,000, maybe less," Cranney says.
Cleveland is a growing, with new homes found in subdivisions like Grand Oaks Preserve..
The neighborhood of Midline has charming ranch-style houses, defining its suburban landscape.
Brick traditional style homes are common in the Cleveland area.
Xfinity partnered with the Cleveland Chamber of Commerce to organize Downtown Cocoa Crawl.
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Locke Surls Center for Art offers a tour of sculptures
Cleveland may be a small city, but its age and its century of continued evolution have imbued this community with a rich heritage. Locals can explore their city’s story at the Cleveland Historical Museum, which showcases nearly 200 years of history. Set amid over 170 acres of woodland, the Locke Surls Center for Art allows locals to tour modern sculptures in a natural setting. Local culture comes alive at annual events like the Dairy Day cook-off and rodeo each April, the city’s Fourth of July fireworks celebration, October’s Fall Festival with its farmers’ markets and food and Cleveland’s November-December holiday light displays at the “Christmas Ranch.”
Visit the Locke Surls Center for Art and see the incredible art exhibit in Cleveland.
A family roasts marshmallows over an open fire at the Downtown Cocoa Crawl.
Lean about the history of Cleveland at the Cleveland Historical Museum downtown.
Children enjoy playing in the artificial snow at the Downtown Cocoa Crawl.
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Cleveland’s cuisine
Cleveland's shopping and dining mostly centers around Washington Avenue. "There's not many chains there unless it's fast food related," Cranney says, although she adds there is a Walmart and H-E-B, and both are "big deals." Local eateries serve up dishes from around the world, from Mexican and Chinese classics to Japanese steakhouse favorites and the famous Texas-style barbecue. Major shopping is in New Caney at Valley Ranch and The Woodlands.
Eat locally in Cleveland at restaurants like Reyes Mexican Grille.
There are many different local vendors for food and produce in Midline.
Cleveland residents have access to shopping nearby like H-E-B.
Families can shop at the Valley Town Ranch shopping center in New Caney
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Hiking through Sam Houston National Forest
To Greater Houston residents, Cleveland is perhaps best known as a camping resort. Locals can join in on the fun with a trip to the neighboring Sam Houston National Forest, a preserve of over 163,000 acres of East Texas' Piney Woods ecoregion. This natural kingdom contains the 128-mile Lone Start Hiking Trail, the longest in the state. Campers can stay at one of three recreation areas and canoe and paddleboat amid the forest's wetlands, while fishing and hunting are also popular pastimes. Within Cleveland, families can go to Old City Park for a playground, while Campbell Park has a splash pad. Summers in Cleveland are hot and humid, and winters are mild. The city has faced all the extremes Texas is known for over the past few years as well. The most extreme years on record were between 2023 and 2024 when Cleveland suffered a historic tornado event, a 97-acre wildfire and downtown flooding. Cranney says flood risk in Cleveland is low compared to nearby cities. "It's way less in Cleveland than it is in east Montgomery County where it floods all the time," she says. "In New Caney and Splendora, you have to be very careful about where you buy." Since 5 million Texans are affected by flooding annually, the state adopted its first city-wide flood plan in 2024. The plan proposes to strengthen dam and levee programs and expand early warning systems.
Cleveland residents can take a hike along the Lone Star Hiking Trail, the longest in Texas.
Cleveland's Campbell Park is where locals can get out an play.
The Old City Park provides residents a fun place to get out and play.
A father and his son play a game of basketball at Campbell Park in Cleveland.
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Learning at Cleveland Independent School District
Cleveland Independent School District earns a C-minus on Niche. Tarkington Independent School District — in the Tarkington community, on the eastern edges of the city — has the most highly regarded schools in the city and is rated B on Niche. The closest higher education option is Lone Star College, a community college around 23 miles from Cleveland. The University of Houston and the prestigious Rice University are both within 50 miles and Texas A&M University is about 90 miles from the city. Rice University came in as the ninth-ranking college on Forbes' top 10 U.S. 2024-2025 colleges list.
Cleveland High School is located in Liberty County, Texas.
2,655 students attend Cleveland Middle School.
Northside Elementary School is a great school to send your children.
Southside Primary School serves various neighborhoods of Cleveland, Texas.
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Highway to Houston
Interstate 69 is the main highway traveling through Cleveland. Houston-bound commuters can take this highway into the city and to George Bush Intercontinental Airport, around 30 miles away. The airport is one of the busiest in the state, with a dozen airlines traveling to 187 domestic and international destinations. The city is home to a Texas Emergency Hospital, which also offers lab testing and specialized cardiac procedures. While most residents drive, this city also has fixed bus routes through the Brazos Transit District.
Crime in Cleveland
While Cleveland is a small exurban city, its law enforcement still has to contend with high crime rates. According to a 2020 FBI report, Cleveland has an average violent crime rate of 5.53 incidents per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 41.75 per 1,000. The total crime rate of 47.28 is well above the national average of 38.7. The Cleveland Police Department is addressing crime by hiring patrol officers to be “generalists” rather than “specialists,” training them to prepare each officer for any type of incident.
Written By
Kathryn Ashworth
Photography Contributed By
Clayton Hurst
Video By
Stewart Taveras
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
James Dickerson,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Cleveland, TX sell after 326 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Cleveland, TX over the last 12 months is $251,900, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to 722 Road 5138 in Cleveland, TX! This 2022 built home offers a modern layout with approximately 1,276 sq ft of living space. Featuring an open-concept design, the home seamlessly connects the living, dining, and kitchen areas, creating a comfortable and functional flow. The kitchen provides ample cabinet space and a practical layout for everyday living. The owner's suite offers privacy
Don’t miss this move-in ready 3-bedroom, 2-bath home situated on an expansive 0.35-acre lot. This property stands out with extended parking access leading to the rear—ideal for work trucks, trailers, extra vehicles, or future flexibility. Inside, you’ll find a comfortable layout designed for everyday living and entertaining. The oversized backyard offers exceptional outdoor potential, complete
Discover the perfect blend of space, comfort, and versatility on this beautiful 1-acre property surrounded by nature. This charming home features 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths, offering a functional layout ideal for everyday living. With no HOA, a low tax rate, and the peace of mind of being outside the flood zone, this property provides exceptional flexibility and long-term value.The land
Beautiful multi-residence ranch estate featuring a 3BR/2BA main home with attached 1BR apartment, plus a 2BR/1BA lake house overlooking a serene pond. Ideal for equestrian use, the property includes 12 stalls, two wash racks with hot/cold water, a central vet rack, multiple paddocks, round pens, and a pole barn. Spacious pastures, mature trees, and wide-open views create the perfect setting for a
Embrace the ultimate "getaway" lifestyle at 201 Cypress Lakes Circle, located within the exclusive gated community of The Preserve of Texas. This prime, undeveloped lot offers a blank slate for those looking to build a custom summer retreat or a permanent sanctuary in a tranquil Liberty County setting. The property is a short distance from an incredible array of outdoor amenities, including three
Welcome to East River Estates in Plum Grove. Discover a quiet, private parcel in a peaceful rural neighborhood. This raw lot offers a wooded setting with gentle topography and convenient road access. No utilities currently on site — buyer to install well and septic. Perfect for a custom home, weekend retreat, or long-term investment.
2.27 Acres – Land Opportunity in ClevelandGreat opportunity to own approximately 2.27 acres in a growing area of Cleveland, TX. Property includes an existing 2-bedroom, 1-bath home (approx. 900 sq ft, built 1993) that is in poor condition and being sold as-is. Structure is considered a teardown; value is primarily in the land.The property features well water, electric service available,
Beautiful, unrestricted 8.5+ acre property offering a rare blend of privacy, usability & natural charm just outside of Houston! The seller has thoughtfully improved the land by removing most pine trees, creating a more open, park-like setting while preserving its scenic country feel. Several fantastic home sites throughout the property provide flexibility for a custom home, mobile home, business,
Spacious lot with over 10,000 sq ft, cleared and ready for your next home! Whether you’re looking to place a mobile home or build the home of your dreams, this property offers great potential. Conveniently located with utility connections nearby and 3 schools close by, making it a great option for families. Enjoy the peace and quiet of living outside the city, while still having access to
Build your vision on this 0.46-acre lot in Camino Real. This homesite has been partially cleared while leaving some of the trees in place to provide added privacy and a more natural setting. It offers a great opportunity for a buyer looking to build a custom home, purchase a manufactured home, invest in land, or secure extra space in the growing Cleveland area. Public water and electricity are
Welcome to 461 Trails End, situated on 1.5 acres with no HOA! Fully remodeled in 2025 with major updates including foundation repairs (piers added), HVAC, kitchen, bathrooms, luxury flooring, septic system, and fresh interior paint. Set deep on the lot for added privacy, this property offers room to roam and entertain guests. Schedule your tour today!
One of a kind pristine, gated community for year round living or recreational get aways. Stunning lakefront lot ready for your new lake home in The Preserve of Texas (formerly known as Cypress Lakes). This lot can be for your RV or "Tiny Home" or build a cabin or home on stilts! Raised crushed concrete driveway and pad. Turn key RV hook up (two electric hookups 30/50 AMP). Connected to community
Weekend Getaway Ready! Waterfront RV Lot in The Preserve of Texas with Gazebo, Swings & Water Views – Gated Community Featuring 4 Pools, 5 Fishing Lakes, Splash Pad, Equine Center & More! Shaded 0.2640 acres with RV hookups, storage building, and pier (needs repair). Perfect for vacation use, investment, or building your dream home.
Escape the city and build the life you've been planning. This 0.73-acre lot in the peaceful Camino Real community gives you the space, freedom, and flexibility to make it happen — whether that's a custom home, a barndominium, or a manufactured home on land you actually own.No HOA. No deed restrictions. No one telling you what to build or when.Utilities are available at the property, so
Welcome to this beautifully designed two-story home in Cleveland, TX! Boasting 4 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, this home is perfect for families or those who love entertaining. The open-concept kitchen flows into the living and dining areas, creating a bright, airy space to gather and enjoy. It has a huge backyard—ideal for BBQs, playtime, or simply relaxing under the Texas sky. Whether you're
See the deer roam. Utility ready please see the pictures!A nice location for your Home, Tiny home, Cabin, or Rv. The subdivision has fishing lakes, Pools, Splash pads, Beach on the river, and other amenities. The seller has a survey.**All the information is believed to be true and correct but the buyer(s) and buyer party should verify all the given information.
Charming rental 4 bedroom, 2 full baths manufactured home in the Grand San Jacinto community. Sitting on half an acre lot! Kitchen with open floor plan to the living area, carpet and vinyl flooring. Primary bedroom with en-suite bathroom tub/shower combo, and two closets! Call and make your appointment today!
One of a kind pristine, gated community for year round living or recreational get aways. Stunning lakefront lot ready for your new lake home in The Preserve of Texas (formerly known as Cypress Lakes). This lot can be for your RV or "Tiny Home" or build a cabin or home on stilts! Raised crushed concrete driveway and pad. Turn key RV hook up (two electric hookups 30/50 AMP). Connected to community
A peaceful country setting with easy access to Hwy 99 and nearby amenities. This home sits on a spacious lot surrounded by mature trees, providing privacy and a quiet retreat from city life. The property may be leased unfurnished or furnished, with the furnished lease available for $2,600 per month, making it ideal for those seeking a flexible leasing option. Enjoy ample outdoor space, room to
NOW LEASING! Enjoy our quiet community in a nice, residential neighborhood. We are centrally located in the City of Clevelend with all town amenities only minutes away. Enjoy easy access to HWY 59 - Only 20 minutes from Humble and Conroe. Bring your king-sized bed and take advantage of your oversized bedroom! Large, open kitchen and dining space. Select Units include private patio and storage.
Discover peaceful country living at 798 County Rd 5702 in Cleveland, TX. This property offers a quiet setting while still providing convenient access to major roads including US Highway 59 and TX-105, making travel to Cleveland, Splendora, and surrounding areas easy. Enjoy nearby shopping, dining, and daily conveniences at Cleveland Plaza Shopping Center and other local retailers along Highway
This home is available for self-guided showings 7 days per week.Step into the "Cypress" floor plan at Pinewood Trails, a newly built single-family community in Cleveland, TX. This 2-story layout offers 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and 2171 square feet in a comfortable, modern living space. Enjoy the convenience of an attached two-car garage and Smart Home technology for seamless control of
Welcome to your next home in Cleveland, TX — a bright, modern 2021-built residence that blends contemporary comfort with thoughtful design. This spacious 4-bedroom, 2-bath home welcomes you with an open, exceptional living area perfect for everyday life and entertaining. The well-appointed kitchen comes complete with all appliances included, offering convenience from move-in day and making meal
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and space in this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bath manufactured home, set on a generous .669-acre lot. With a welcoming traditional style and a single-story layout, this home offers open-concept living, durable laminate floors, and a cozy electric fireplace that sets the tone for relaxed country living.The spacious kitchen flows effortlessly into
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