Lakeside living and rural vibes in Huffman
Huffman embraces peaceful living about 30 miles northeast of Houston. This unincorporated community sits on the eastern shores of the 11,000-acre Lake Houston reservoir with easy access to waterfront recreation. Though rural, it's growing quickly, with many subdivisions offering modern homes on spacious lots. “I live on 12 acres, so it’s kind of like the country. Yet in seven minutes, I can be in the city right across the lake,” says Cathy Erickson, a Huffman resident of about 25 years.
Modern homes with wooded acreage
New construction and farmhouse-inspired New Traditional homes are spread across the area, often sitting on an acre or more. Much of the landscape is wooded, adding extra privacy. The Commons of Lake Houston subdivision features some of the area's luxury custom homes. Fairway Crossing at Lake Houston fronts the Red Wolf Golf Resort, which has an 18-hole course and is open to the public. Huffman's median price is about $280,000 — significantly lower than Houston's, while some of the priciest homes are $1 million and above. Properties along the reservoir and river may be more susceptible to flooding.
Huffman ISD schools offer hands-on learning and above-average ratings
The Huffman Independent School District serves area students. The educational path may start at either Falcon Ridge Elementary or Huffman Elementary School, both of which have B ratings on Niche. The district also includes Huffman Middle, which earns a B-minus, and Hargrave High School, which gets a B and has a student-led Future Farmers of America program that was originally founded in 1972. “Huffman ISD is big here,” says Max Kidd, broker with the Huffman-based Kidd Team. “They’ve got kids raising animals, building trailers and doing projects together. It pulls the community together to a large degree.”
Lake Houston and local parks are central to life in Huffman
Lake Houston is a hub for fishing and boating, with several marinas on its eastern shore. Locals can enjoy a natural escape at Lake Houston Wilderness Park, with nearly 5,000 forested acres and over 20 miles of trails. It features facilities for camping, hiking, trail running, mountain biking and horseback riding. The 69-acre I.T. May Park features a seasonal splash pad, walking trail, lighted sports fields and an adjoining community center. “It’s a great, active community center,” Erickson says. “They have a lot of activities for kids and older people every single day.”
New retail center and longtime local eateries serve residents
Huffman doesn't have many retail stores, but that could be changing. The new Shops of Huffman strip mall is looking for additional tenants to join the salon and restaurants. Locals can dine al fresco at Lake Houston Brewery, which serves craft beer and seafood along the water. Huffman Café is a favorite breakfast spot with signature entrees and build-your-own plates. Beto's Meat Market is a local stop for groceries. National chains, including Kroger and Target, are across the lake in Atascocita. A longer trip to Houston brings more shopping, dining and entertainment opportunities. The city hosts performing arts, professional sports and the month-long Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
Medical care and airport travel within 15 miles
Locals mainly rely on cars to get around, with Farm to Market Roads 2100 and 1960 being the main arteries. Fixed bus routes aren't available, but Harris County Transit provides several rural transportation services. A 24-hour HCA Houston emergency room is about 5 miles west in Atascocita. Memorial Hermann hospital, about 13 miles west, provides additional medical services. For out-of-town travel, George Bush Intercontinental Airport is around 15 miles west with nonstop service to more than 184 destinations.
