Crosby

Situated between two worlds, with the city of Houston to its west and rural farmland to its east, is Crosby, a small town in Harris County. Just 22 miles from the city, Crosby combines country and urban living with an interesting history. For 19 days in 1953, the town transformed its name from Crosby to Hope, to gain recognition from Bob Hope, a comedian who hosted a contest opened to women living in cities named Hope. Though the name didn’t stick, Crosby is still a place of hope for residents seeking a community enveloped by nature.

From home game nights at the high school’s Cougar Stadium, known as The Jungle to locals, to cheering on the youngsters at a cheer event, the kids have plenty of recreation opportunities. Crosby Sports Complex continues this athletic focus and comes alive with more softball and baseball tournaments overlooked by the Crosby Sports Association. Xtreme Off Road Park and Beach is a staple for locals who enjoy getting dirty. It is popular for mudding, camping or letting loose at one of its spring break events. Stonebridge Country Club’s rolling greens are open to residents and non-residents for leisurely games and club events. On Aqueduct Road is Dwight D. Eisenhower Park, with access to Lake Houston for fishing and boating adventures.

Neighborhood aesthetics vary from street to street in Crosby. While some subdivisions offer a country club lifestyle filled with custom and modern suburban homes surrounded by trees, others grant convenient access to parks and trails. Homebuyers can find neo-traditional and ranch-style houses constructed with brick and stone, with driveways and fenced-in backyards. Many neighborhoods include sidewalks, but many don’t, as Crosby is a car-dependent community. Prices range from $200,000 for a starter home to over $500,000 for over 3,000 square feet and ample acreage.

Students in Crosby may be a part of the Crosby Independent School District, and through their MECA Degree Plan, students can get an associate degree by the time graduation rolls around. Kids can attend Crosby Kindergarten Center and continue at one of the four elementary schools including Crosby Elementary and Newport Elementary School, with an A-minus, according to Niche. Crosby Middle has a B, while Crosby High has a B-plus, according to Niche. The high school has a department dedicated to Career and Technical Education, specializing in health sciences, veterinary science and culinary arts. It also has a student-run dog daycare with low-cost grooming services.

A few neighborhood essentials are on Hare Road, such as the Crosby Community Center and the Crosby Library. The community center shares grounds with Crosby Park and hosts the annual Boo Bash Festival & Fundraiser with carnival games and a pumpkin patch. The Crosby Freeway is the main thoroughfare for residents who commute to the city for work. Crosby is the site of Crosby Hauling & Junk Removal, Hunting Energy Services and Altiva Oxide Chemicals, serving as major employers for the community and surrounding areas.

Residents will find Walmart and Aldi for groceries, and while there aren’t big box stores or malls to spend the day, there are a few local businesses to support. Crosby Antique Mall is family-owned and filled to the brim with old relics and vintage furnishings. While, Crosby Ace Hardware is available for any household needs. Hungry Jack's has classic country staples and a casual atmosphere for all-day breakfast. Straight Off the Road BBQ is where even out-of-towners come for smothered country fried steak and smoked brisket. For authentic Mexican cuisine, La Casita Taqueria & Refresqueria serves up traditional street food.

Everyone in the community knows about the Crosby Fair and Rodeo, adding not only to the economy but the recreational well-being of residents. Hosting a space for carnival festivities and saddle bronc riding, the little ones can participate in the Little Wrangler Rodeo. And don’t forget about the livestock auction, southern food and live country performances.