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
Melanie Mikulenka,
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.
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On average, homes in Cleveland, TX sell after 281 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Cleveland, TX over the last 12 months is $249,325, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to your private retreat on 4.6 unrestricted acres! Beautifully maintained home features all-black Frigidaire appliances, farm-style sink, abundant built-in cabinets/shelves. Step outside to enjoy the 4x6 ft front deck, & a 14x20 covered back porch w/capped water lines, ready for future outdoor plumbing needs. Fully lit 3-car attached carport w/shelving. This fully fenced property boasts
This beautiful home sits on a SPACIOUS 1.03-ACRE HOMESITE in a quiet community with NO THROUGH STREETS AND NO REAR NEIGHBORS. Enjoy a LOW 1.4% TAX RATE, and the flexibility to add a WORKSHOP, POOL, GARDEN, OR OTHER OUTDOOR AMENITIES. This SINGLE-STORY HOME offers 3 BEDROOMS, 2 BATHS, AND A PRIVATE STUDY, thoughtfully designed for both comfort and functionality. The OPEN-CONCEPT LIVING AREA
Step into this stunning home and be welcomed by a dramatic foyer featuring an elegant TRAY CEILING that sets the stage for the style and comfort found throughout. The entry opens into a SPACIOUS, LIGHT-FILLED FAMILY ROOM—perfect for everyday living and entertaining. Just off the main living area, the expansive kitchen shines with a LARGE STAND-ALONE ISLAND, offering plenty of prep space, seating,
This 3-bedroom, 2-bath, 2-car garage home offers the perfect blend of modern comfort and convenient living. Step inside to an open-concept kitchen that flows seamlessly into the spacious living room and bright breakfast area—ideal for entertaining or everyday living. The thoughtfully designed utility room connects directly to the primary bath, adding a touch of practicality and ease to your daily
Discover the freedom and charm of country living at this cute home that's tucked away in a peaceful rural setting. This property offers the space, privacy and flexibility you will like, while still providing convenient access to nearby amenities, schools and major roadways. The land provides ample room to spread out and enjoy the outdoors, with endless potential for gardening, animals, workshops,
This charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath home at 2407 County Road 2235 offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy comfortable country living with convenient access to major routes. Situated on a generously sized lot just minutes from US 59, the property provides a peaceful setting while remaining close to everyday necessities.Inside, the home features hardwood floors, spacious bedrooms,and a warm,
19 acres with a 3 bedroom 2-bathroom house, barn and pond! The home was recently painted on the outside, gutters added, new light fixtures and handrails, driveway was widened and leveled, 2 brand new sidewalks, 2024 KitchenAid dishwasher, 21K in improvements on an already exceptionally maintained home with the original owners. The 72'X54' pole barn has a tack room, RV plug in, stalls, water and
4.38 Acres located off of Alsobrooks Rd waiting for you to build your dream home. If you are looking for a peaceful setting off the beaten path this may be it. Call for more information or to tour property. There are homes in close proximity so utilities are not on property but accessible.
Dayna Simon
Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Gary Greene - Lake Houston
Welcome home to this beautifully refreshed property offering modern finishes, spacious design, and peaceful surroundings. Walk up to a large front porch with ceiling fan, and enter into a recently updated home featuring brand new stone countertops and stylish new faucets, creating a clean, contemporary kitchen and bath experience. The interior has been freshly painted and upgraded with brand new
This .4 +/- Acre lot is located in highly coveted Santa Fe Community. No restrictions, partially cleared lot. Ready for you to build your own home. Seller has partially cleared and utilities are on site for connection for your new home.Located close to Hwy 99 and 69, easy access to get into Houston and surrounding areas. Mobile homes are welcome, drive by and see it today!
Discover a 10,454 sq. ft. lot located in the growing community of Cleveland, TX. This property offers the flexibility to build a custom home or place a mobile home, providing options for various housing needs. Conveniently situated minutes from Grand Parkway 99 and Highway 59, the location allows for easy access to nearby schools, shopping, and everyday conveniences. With its versatile use and
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
Great land opportunity in Cleveland, TX! This residential lot in Santa Fe Sec 14 offers approximately 0.22 acres and is a great option for a new-construction home, manufactured home, or mobile home placement. Located in Liberty County, with convenient access to FM 2090 and US-59, this property offers a peaceful setting while remaining within reach of Cleveland and the Houston metro area.
Welcome to your private retreat on 4.6 unrestricted acres! Beautifully maintained home features all-black Frigidaire appliances, farm-style sink, abundant built-in cabinets/shelves. Step outside to enjoy the 4x6 ft front deck, & a 14x20 covered back porch w/capped water lines, ready for future outdoor plumbing needs. Fully lit 3-car attached carport w/shelving. This fully fenced property boasts
HUGE PRICE IMPROVEMENT!! Enjoy the perfect blend of space and convenience with this charming 1,922 sq. ft. home set on almost half an acre just minutes from town. Inside, you’ll find a large living room ideal for relaxing or entertaining, plus a bonus room that can easily serve as a den, office, or formal dining area. The spacious utility room offers plenty of storage and functionality for
Move In Ready 3 bedroom 2 bathroom has all you need to make it a home. The Primary room is on the opposite side from the other bedrooms with an open floor plan common area with the kitchen, dining and living room. All appliances available in the kitchen to make those wonderful family meals and there is room for thosegatherings as well. Do we like to be outside? You will love it here. A fully
Short-term leases available! Step back in time with this beautifully restored Tarkington treasure, originally built in 1934 by the landlord’s great-grandparents. Renovated in 2013, the home retains its vintage charm — including original hardwood floors and shiplap walls — while featuring modern updates to the electrical, plumbing, septic, roof, and insulation. Enjoy the wraparound porch on the
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.
This cozy 2-bedroom, 1-bath home at 2407 CR 2235 offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Situated on a large lot with easy access to US 59, you’ll enjoy a quiet setting while still being just minutes from major routes. Inside, you’ll find hardwood floors, large bedrooms, and two inviting porches ideal for relaxing mornings or evenings outdoors. The kitchen comes equipped with a
Three bedroom, one bath home nestled in a quiet country setting in Tarkington ISD for lease. This home has energy-efficient windows, ceiling fans in all bedrooms and living room, large closets, central air/heat, new kitchen countertops. Upgraded refrigerator, washer and dryer included. Pets are considered on a case-by-case basis.
Welcome home to this beautifully refreshed property offering modern finishes, spacious design, and peaceful surroundings. Recently updated throughout, this home features brand new stone countertops and stylish new faucets, creating a clean, contemporary kitchen and bath experience. The interior has been freshly painted and upgraded with brand new luxury vinyl plank flooring, new remote-controlled
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
This cute county home is nestled in the woods and features a full front porch, open concept dining/living/kitchen area with large bedroom upstairs. First floor has 1/2 bath in laundry room. All appliances including refrigerator, washer, dryer, stove and dishwasher are included. Large back yard. No pets are permitted inside or outside, and no smoking is permitted on the property. Room measurements
Beautifully upgraded home built in 2021 and meticulously maintained by the owner! This property offers a modern open-concept layout with spacious living and breakfast areas, tile and/or hard-surface flooring throughout (no carpet), and a clean garage featuring an additional overhead storage rack. Appliances and extras included: washer, dryer, two refrigerators (kitchen and garage), stove,
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.
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