Growth and community in Waller
The small community of Waller has been able to maintain its farming character despite the impressive regional growth that has attracted employers like Daikin to nearby Hockley and the upcoming H-E-B distribution center to Hempstead. “Everybody [here] baled hay as a kid in the summer,” says Realtor Wendy Cline of Wendy Cline Properties. Cline says as the area continues to grow, community groups keep strong bonds, which make getting to know people easier than in a bigger city. “I’m a Texas A&M graduate, and they have a really active Waller County former students' association.”
New subdivisions, older homes in town and ranches
This community has a booming housing market, with new subdivisions continuing to be built to accommodate the city’s growth. The subdivisions typically offer New Traditional homes, but buyers can also pick from smaller bungalow properties in town and larger acreage properties. “There are a lot of larger ranches that are still intact,” Cline says. “I have horses, and there’s a community of farms and ranches. I like that aspect of Waller.” Properties on less than an acre typically sell for $200,000 to $500,000, while acre-plus properties start around $600,000 and can sell for as much as $10 million.
Career readiness in Waller Independent School District
Waller Independent School District has eight elementary schools, two junior highs and one high school. Its highest-rated elementary school is Fields Store Elementary, which receives a B-plus grade from Niche. Schultz Junior High School receives a B-minus, Waller Junior High School receives a C-plus, and Waller High School receives a B. Waller High School offers career and technical education programs in areas such as agriculture, architecture and business.
Outdoor activities and the Waller County Fair & Rodeo
The town’s only park, Daikin Park, has a playground, picnic tables and a gazebo. Other area attractions include Neal’s Berry Farm and Hockley’s Oil Ranch, where visitors can milk cows, take hayrides and feed cattle. Each fall, the community comes together for the Waller County Fair & Rodeo, which includes a parade, livestock shows, a rodeo and more.
Barbecue, Mexican food and a farmers market
Waller County Line BBQ is a popular no-frills Texas barbecue joint. Cielito Lindo Restaurant is a sit-down Mexican restaurant known for its frozen margaritas and large portions. Another popular spot to grab a bite is Buc-ee’s, the iconic Texas-based gas station chain that sells barbecue sandwiches, homemade fudge and a variety of snacks. For groceries, residents can shop at Arlan’s Market and the Farmers Market at The Hangout, which is open on the second and fourth Sunday of each month. “I go there all the time for vegetables and milk,” Cline says.
Centrally located between larger Texas cities
Waller is centrally located between many larger Texas cities, including Prairie View, Hempstead and Cypress. The nearest major metro is Houston, 42 miles away. “Your commute may be a little bit longer to your job, but you can kind of get anywhere and still come home and enjoy quiet time,” Cline says. Waller’s closest medical center is HCA Houston Healthcare Tomball, 20 miles east. The nearest airport is George Bush Intercontinental Airport, 44 miles away.
