Wharton is a small, agricultural town with a bonded community
Wharton is rooted in cotton and cattle country on the banks of the Colorado River. "[It's a place where] you have time to appreciate life, and it's just not going so fast beside you," says Shannon Araya, a Realtor with Keller Williams Premier Realty who grew up here. The city's population of over 8,000 people is relatively stable, only increasing by 1% in a decade. Still, development is picking up, with a master-planned community in the works, creating space for new friends. "You will know your neighbors. They will look out for you. And our town has tons of activities," says Stacie Hoyt, a Realtor with eXp Realty LLC, who's lived here for 14 years. Events from festivals to fairgrounds and parties under the historic bridge strengthen community bonds. So do visits to the local museum, inside the childhood home of former CBS News anchor Dan Rather.
A vibrant mural in Wharton captures the city's rich country heritage.
An aerial view captures the heart of Wharton and its surrounding landscape.
1/2
Wharton Lakes is a new master-planned community here
Wharton is filled with custom homes, many on a quarter of an acre to over three acres. Some trace back to the early 1900s but have been completely remodeled. The city also has investment properties for those willing to put in some elbow grease. Wharton Lakes is a new master-planned development stretching from the city's core to its countryside. The community offers a large fishing lake, walking trails and a park. Wharton's median home price is $226,000, significantly lower than the state median.
New builds bring modern charm to Wharton's growing neighborhoods.
Home in Wharton
1/2
Higher education at Wharton County Junior College
Wharton Independent School District earns a C-rating on Niche. The district enrolls just over 1,800 students in four schools. The highest-ranking are Wharton High and Sivells Elementary, both earning a B-minus grade on Niche. Wharton County Junior College is also located in the city.
Wharton Jr. College helps students take the next step toward their future.
Wharton students thrive at Wharton High School.
1/2
Famous residents of Wharton include Dan Rather and Horton Foote
Dan Rather's house, now the Wharton County Historical Museum, showcases exhibits devoted to nature and related to his life. Another famous Wharton resident was playwright Horton Foote, who adapted the novel "To Kill a Mockingbird" for the big screen. The community devotes a festival to him in April. Monterey Square Wine Fair and Party Under the Bridge happens in October, followed by the local Christmas parade in December. "And don't forget about the Wharton County Fairgrounds, that's a big one," Hoyt says. "Most of our children are involved with the fair, showing their animals and winning those scholarships. Also, we now have the pumpkin patch Gundermann Acres right outside of town."
Explore the Dan Rather House, a historic landmark in Wharton.
Explore Horton Foote's work and Texas roots in Wharton County Historical. Museum
1/2
U.S. Route 59 flows through Wharton
The Colorado River Bridge, built in 1930, is a historic landmark that’s still used by commuters. U.S. Route 59 flows through Wharton, connecting to Highway 60, a path to downtown Houston in less than 60 miles, and Freeport and its beaches in under 70 miles. OakBend Medical Center is in the city with an emergency room and specialty services.
Dinner and a show at the Plaza Theatre in downtown Wharton
Quintessential of a small Texas town, Wharton's downtown area features local establishments in historic buildings that circle an old courthouse. A beacon of the area is the Plaza Theatre, a staple since 1904. For more extensive shopping, locals head into the Houston metro area. "Sugarland would be the first town you'd get to, and a lot of people do go to Sugarland for dining and mall shopping," Araya says.
The Plaza Theater brings arts and entertainment to downtown Wharton.
Discover small-town vibes and big-town charm in Downtown Wharton.
1/2
From the courthouse to the Colorado River
Nature is never far away in Wharton. "The Colorado River is a block away from the courthouse," Hoyt says. "You will find people tubing and fishing there. Then there is Dinosaur Park with Hesed House next door with all kinds of things to do." Hesed House is a community center that hosts free weekly yoga classes. Dinosaur Park features a playground, basketball court and picnic areas. It connects to Riverfront Park, with a short walking trail, spanning the Colorado River. Wharton also has neighborhood parks and a municipal pool.
Wharton County Courthouse's historical marker tells the story of the city's past.
Pose with the climbable sculpture at Dinosaur Park, a must-see interactive piece in Wharton.
1/2
Wharton's community efforts after Hurricane Harvey
Wharton has weathered several historic floods. The most severe event was Hurricane Harvey in 2017. "People pitched in with trucks, food, clothes and furniture. Lots of businesses handed out free food. And as a Realtor, I worked nonstop to get people in rentals," Hoyt says. "Since then, the city has put in procedures, policies and levees so it doesn't flood that way again." Crime data was not readily available for this city.
Written By
Kathryn Ashworth
Photography Contributed By
Aylin Reyna
Video By
Grace Kim
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Connie Luedke,
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.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
The Pinehollow Floor Plan - This single-level home showcases a spacious open floorplan shared between the kitchen, dining area and family room for easy entertaining. An owner’s suite enjoys a private location in a rear corner of the home, complemented by an en-suite bathroom and walk-in closet. There are three secondary bedrooms along the side of the home, which are comfortable spaces for
The Idlewood Floor Plan - This single-level home showcases a spacious open floorplan shared between the kitchen, dining area and family room for easy entertaining, along with access to an outdoor space. An owner’s suite enjoys a private location in a rear corner of the home, complemented by an en-suite bathroom and walk-in closet. There are two secondary bedrooms at the front of the home, ideal
The Oxford Floor Plan - This single-level home showcases a spacious open floorplan shared between the kitchen, dining area and family room for easy entertaining. An owner’s suite enjoys a private location in a rear corner of the home, complemented by an en-suite bathroom and walk-in closet. There are three secondary bedrooms at the front of the home, which are comfortable spaces for household
Discover the charm of this 4-bedroom, 2-bath home on 1.15 acres at 1327 Hodges Lane. Originally built in 1955, this property has been thoughtfully updated with modern improvements for today’s lifestyle. Recent upgrades include a new roof (2025) and a 5-ton HVAC A/C condensing unit installed in 2024, freshly painted, ensuring comfort and peace of mind. The home features a fantastic kitchen with
Discover a great opportunity on just over 3/4 of an acre in Wharton! This property features a 2019 16x76 manufactured home offering an open living/kitchen layout with an island and durable vinyl flooring throughout. Enjoy a front carport for covered parking and a spacious back porch perfect for relaxing outdoors. A second home is also located on the property and could be revitalized with some
Situated on 8 fully fenced and gated acres, this 2021-built Magnolia floor plan by Tilson Homes offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, plus an office that can serve as a 4th bedroom. Open-concept layout with a large living room flowing into the kitchen and flex space. Features include a 30x30 spray foam–insulated shop with central air and heat, two attached 20x30 carports, and a barn with lean-to.
GENERAC!!!! Country living with a custom one-story home, featuring granite countertops, tile and hardwood floors throughout. Marble in Primary Bath. The open-concept layout offers generous living space, handicap accessible, filled with natural light, perfect for everyday living. Includes a flex room that can be used for theatre room, gameroom or whatever you desire. A large amount of upgrades
Own a piece of music history—this distinctive residence was once home to Frank Sinatra Jr., offering a rare chance to live where legacy and lifestyle meet. Inside, soaring ceilings, marble, wood and tile floors, and two fireplaces create a stage-worthy setting for gatherings, while double kitchen islands anchor the heart of the home for effortless entertaining. Designed with entertainers and
Discover the freedom and potential of this 6.7 acre UNRESTRICTED tract of land in Wharton County and zoned to Boling ISD. Featuring mature trees, paved county road frontage, and a peaceful setting, this property is perfect for a homestead, recreational use or even commercial development! Located just minutes from Hwy 59, it offers quick access while still feeling tucked away. Out of the flood
Looking for a spot to call your own? This cozy 0.1865-acre lot in the town of Wharton is just what you need. Tucked away with mature trees offering plenty of shade and beauty. It's ready for you to build your home. Public water, sewer, and electric are already available—just bring your vision and make it happen!
Tucked away in Wharton County, 3780 Co Rd 257 Egypt TX 77488, this 22.71-acre property offers wide-open pasture, mature pecan trees, and over 1,400 feet of direct access to the Colorado River. A newly installed 179-foot-deep water well produces 100 GPM, supported by a well house, septic system, and full RV hookup. The land is fenced with two gated entrances and includes three cargo containers
Quiet setting surrounded by cattle ranches and nature! Wooded property accessed through a deeded easement. quiet country homesite or hunting property less than an hour from Houston.
112.78-acre ag exempt property offers prime potential for development, featuring extensive road frontage. Its location provides easy access to local amenities; Wharton ISD, Wharton Junior College, retail centers, and nearby apartment complexes. Approximately 35 acres designated as wetlands. These unique environmental features allow for the integration of natural landscapes within the development,
Nestled near the end of a quiet dead-end road, this spacious home sits on 1.3 peaceful acres shaded by stunning mature live oak trees. Enjoy the best of both worlds—serene country living just minutes from Hwy 59, Buc-ee’s, and Walmart. The backyard offers unmatched privacy, backing up to expansive agricultural land to ensure peace and quiet for years to come. With ample outdoor space and a
This rental property is move in ready! Granite countertops and cabinets in the kitchen and bathrooms. Spacious backyard. Deposit is 1 month's rent. Contact listing agent for private showing and rental requirements.
Welcome to your new home at 526 Wilkes St, a charming 2-bedroom duplex nestled in the heart of Wharton, TX! This cozy apartment is perfect for those seeking comfort and convenience, featuring a spacious layout with 950 square feet of living space. Whether you're hosting friends or enjoying a quiet evening in, this home has everything you need to live your best life.Step inside to discover
3 Bedroom • 1 Bath Apartment • On the Historic Wharton SquareEnjoy convenient living right on the Wharton Square. This spacious 3-bedroom, 1-bath upstairs apartment offers a comfortable layout with generous room sizes and great natural light throughout. The kitchen and living areas provide an easy flow, making the space functional for everyday living.Located directly on the Square, you’ll
Discover comfortable and affordable living in this well-kept 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom triplex unit located in a quiet Wharton neighborhood. This cozy space offers an efficient layout with a bright living area, a functional kitchen, and a spacious bedroom. The bathroom is clean and well-maintained, and the unit includes convenient onsite parking. Water and trash service are included in the monthly
Spacious 3-bedroom, 1-bath unit located in a well-kept triplex. This home offers a comfortable layout with a bright living area, an efficient kitchen, and generously sized bedrooms. The bathroom is centrally located for easy access. Unit includes tile flooring for easy maintenance and ample natural light throughout. Exterior features include onsite parking and a shared yard area. Conveniently
Cottage style garage apartment behind historic home in Wharton County. Few blocks from city of Wharton, county court house, shops, post office and restaurants, community theatre, and few blocks from the banks of the Colorado River. Walking trails nearby. Enjoy country living and friendly atmosphere. Pool and hot tub by appointment for your relaxation. Room size is estimate. Please verify. Fridge,
Now available for lease! This comfortable 3 bedroom, 2 bath home offers 1,393 sq ft of well-designed living space in a convenient in-town location. Situated close to churches, local stores, and everyday amenities, this home provides easy access to everything Wharton has to offer.Inside, you’ll find a functional layout with spacious living areas and three nicely sized bedrooms. The fully
Now leasing a newly renovated studio apartment in Wharton, TX for just $695/month! Located at 806 E Emily, this unit is the last available and currently under renovation—reserve it now before they're gone. Featuring modern finishes, fresh upgrades, a convenient location, and pet-friendly options, these apartments will be move-in ready soon. Message us today for more details or to schedule a tour!
Just over 1 acre lot for Lease with Barn. Can be leased for Mechanic shop, commercial business, workshop the opportunities are endless. Contact us today for a showing.
Joe HernandezThe Double J Group at Powers Real Estate
Single-family residence located within the city limits of Wharton. This one-story home offers 2 bedrooms and 1 full bathroom with a functional layout. The structure features a traditional roofline and standard exterior siding. Interior includes an onsite laundry area for added convenience. The lot provides front and rear yard space with direct access from Mahan Street. Utilities are typical for
This remodeled 1-bedroom, 1-bath apartment at Lakeside Pointe Apartments offers comfortable, updated living in a practical layout. The unit features refreshed flooring, updated fixtures, and a modernized kitchen with upgraded cabinetry and appliances. The bedroom offers ample closet space, and the remodeled bathroom includes contemporary finishes and a functional vanity. Additional features
Charming and spacious 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home located in the desirable Caney Trails area of Wharton. This two-story property offers flexible living with multiple gathering spaces, including a large family room and an upstairs bedroom suite. The kitchen provides ample storage and workspace, and the oversized utility room adds convenience for everyday living. Enjoy a private backyard featuring an
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
