Situated between Lake Conroe and the Sam Houston National Forest, Willis is a small city of around 7,000 people known for its acreage homes. It has grown over 20% in the last 15 years partly for its 20-mile distance from The Woodlands, an employment hub with Fortune 500 companies and renowned medical facilities. "The Woodlands has grown so much, and there are no places left to build around it, so people are moving out to the country," says seven-year Realtor Rachael Carter of Walzel Properties. The power plant in Conroe, 10 miles away, is another major area employer. Willis is mostly residential, but local Realtor Lori Ferris Witherspoon of Engel & Völkers Houston says that may change. "As we expand into New Waverly, we will need another shopping area between Conroe and Huntsville."
The beautiful sky, open waters and wooded peninsulas makes Bent Water a great place to live.
The plant contributes to the local economy by creating numerous jobs in Willis.
The local hospital is located off I-45 for easy access.
The city is an employment hub with many Fortune 500 companies.
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Lakeside living in Seven Coves
Realtor Cory Witherspoon, with Engel & Volkers Houston, says Willis’ diverse housing makes its median home price hard to decipher. "If I took a stab at it, I'd say $250,000 to $300,000.” This is between 26% to 12% less than the state average and 39% to 27% less than national average. Willis’ core is densely built, offering new homes, manufactured homes and established ranch styles. Willis becomes rural to the east, with an eclectic variety of residences on 20 acres or more. The city’s lakeside communities, including Seven Coves and French Quarter, are out west. Willis is growing in master-planned communities. Republic Grand Ranch is one of the newest, with homes on more than 2 acres. The Woodlands Hills was built by the same developers as The Woodlands. Chambers Creek is a 55-plus community with a golf course and vineyard.
Willis features stunning lakeside houses along Lake Conroe with serene water views.
This craftsman style home is one of the many styles found throughout the area of Bent Water.
A stately colonial style home sits on a well manicured property in the Bent Water area.
One of the many beautiful homes found surrounding the Lake Conroe in the Bent Water.
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Willis' is known for its outdoor adventures
Outdoor recreation abounds between Willis’ forested areas and Lake Conroe. "The Conroe/Willis area is where you go for boating, fishing, camping and hiking,” says Trisha M. Cranney, a Realtor since 2014 who works for Anne Vickery & Associates Realty, LLC. The Sam Houston National Forest’s vast acres provide hiking trails, trout streams and backcountry campsites around 15 miles northeast. Golf courses surround Willis and small recreational hubs and parks dot the city.
Summer temperatures here rise to the mid-90s, and winters are cooler than other Texas cities, like Houston. “It is more likely to see snow and colder temperatures in Conroe, Willis and New Waverly,” Cranney says. She notes it's only a light dusting every few years. Willis isn’t prone to weather extremes, but it has experienced windstorms called derechos.
The sun bathes the sails boats in its golden light at a Marina in Bent Water.
Fisherman can be found all around in the Bent Water area on Lake Conroe.
Panorama Golf Club offers 27 challenging holes surrounded by nature.
Families enjoy fishing while picnicking along the lake’s scenic shorelines.
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Worshipping and celebrating in Willis
Willis has over a dozen houses of worship but the oldest is Thomas Chapel United Methodist Church, established by formerly enslaved peoples in 1867. Willis’ only annual event is the Willis Christmas Parade.
Willis is home to numerous historic and modern churches serving a variety of denominations.
First Baptist Church of Willis has been a spiritual anchor in the community for decades.
Many churches in Willis emphasize family-friendly services and youth ministries.
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Waterside dining along Lake Conroe
“You have more big- box shopping and better dining opportunities than you do for some of the small towns around there," Cranney says. The city’s down-to-earth mix of chains and local restaurants are mostly between North Danville Street, Interstate 45 and Montgomery Street. For something fancy, including waterside restaurants, locals head south. “Between Conroe and The Woodlands, where they kind of merge together, you’ve got the hospital district, a mall out there and big, nice restaurants," Cranney says.
The city’s retail hub is located along I-45, drawing shoppers from nearby towns.
Willis boasts diverse retail spaces, ranging from local boutiques to major chains.
Agave Boots and Western Wear is the spot to pick a new pair of cowboy boots or hat.
Local residents enjoy a meal at the popular Pizza Shack in downtown Willis.
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Willis Independent School District gets a B rating
The Willis Independent School District scores a B grade on Niche. There are around 20 higher education institutions within 50 miles, including Sam Houston State University, University of Houston and Rice University. Forbes named Rice University among its Top 10 colleges for 2024-2025.
Elementary aged students from Bent Water will attend William Lloyd Meador Elementary School.
Middle Schoolers from Bent Water will attend Robert P. Brabham Middle School.
High school students in Bent Water will attend Willis High School.
CC Hardy Elementary foster young minds, nurturing a foundation for future success.
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It's 50 miles to downtown Houston
I-45 flows through Willis providing a direct route to Conroe in around 10 miles, The Woodlands in about 20 miles and downtown Houston in 50 miles. George Bush Intercontinental Airport is roughly 40 miles south with nonstop flights to over 180 domestic and international destinations. Locals rely on their cars for transit.
Willis Police Department is proactive about crime prevention
According to 2024 data from the Willis Police Department, there are 180.53 property crimes in Willis and 138.87 violent crimes per 100,000 people. The city's violent crime rate is 10% higher than the state average and around 15% higher than the national average. Willis Police Department crime prevention initiatives include a direct tip line for residents.
Written By
Kathryn Ashworth
Photography Contributed By
Aylin Reyna
Video By
Scott Wiggins
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On average, homes in Willis, TX sell after 77 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Willis, TX over the last 12 months is $295,000, down 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Discover modern elegance in this breathtaking 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home nestled in the well established and GATED Lake Conroe community of Point Aquarius. True move-in readiness without the added expense of blinds, appliances, upgrades, or exterior improvements—it’s all been done for you. Ideally situated with no back neighbors, this sophisticated home features a chef-inspired kitchen, complete
READY NOW! There is a new development in Willis, TX, in the Moran Ranch community! Looking for a new home? Look no further than the Boone! This beautiful 1-story home offers 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a 2-car garage. As you step inside, you'll find 3 bedrooms and a full bathroom located off the entryway. Further down the foyer, a separate hallway leads to a laundry room. The open living areas
MAKE AN OFFER SALES EVENT! Tour the home...make an offer...and let's see if it's a match! Schedule your showing today!We are proud to present the Windsor plan! This two-story home is designed for today’s ever-changing families. Even though itis a 2 story, this home boasts three bedrooms on the first floor, and a flex space with two bedrooms and a bath on the secondfloor. The Windsor plan offers a
Welcome to 143 Scarlet Maple Way in The Woodlands Hills! This beautiful 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath home offers 2,795 sq. ft. of thoughtfully designed living space with a two-car garage. Built in 2021, it feels like new—without the new construction price tag! Freshly painted and featuring brand-new upgraded carpet, the home has a bright, modern feel. The primary suite is conveniently located downstairs,
Steven Collier
Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Gary Greene - Lake Conroe North
Nestled in the serene Wills Lake community, this nearly-new (built in 2023) home offers an open-concept floor plan with three spacious bedrooms and soaring ceilings filled with natural light. The kitchen boasts abundant cabinetry, lovely granite countertops, and an adjacent laundry room for convenience. Master bath has a gorgeous tiled shower, and the interior features a neutral color palette
Escape to your own private equestrian paradise just minutes from I-45! This stunning, impeccably maintained 13.348-acre property is a rare find that truly must be seen to be believed. Step inside this spacious home and be greeted by a massive living room featuring a fireplace, built-in surround sound, and an open-concept flow that’s perfect for entertaining. The chef’s island kitchen with double
Enjoy the peaceful charm of lakeside living in the desirable Twin Shores peninsula on Lake Conroe, where residents enjoy access to a private marina and lakeside park—perfect for boating, fishing, and sunrise and sunset strolls. Relax under expansive covered patios overlooking a majestic shade tree with views of Lake Conroe. Inside, this inviting 1,692-sq-ft one-story offers a surprisingly open
INVESTORS ONLY - DO NOT DISTURB TENANT - This charming, single-story home is situated on one of the largest lots in a well-established neighborhood. It offers a thoughtful split-level layout with three bedrooms and two bathrooms, featuring durable vinyl flooring throughout the common areas. Notable amenities include built-in bookshelves and a covered porch overlooking the expansive backyard. The
This charming property spacious living areas, a modern kitchen, and a nice backyard. The master suite features a walk-in closet Located in a desirable neighborhood, this home is perfect for entertaining guests or relaxing with family. Enjoy the convenience of nearby shopping, dining, and parks and Lake Conroe is just walking down the street. Don't miss the opportunity to make this your dream home!
This stunning 3 bed, 3.5 bath townhome is located in the gated community of Harbour Town (Seven Coves) and features exquisite water views from the large 1st and 2nd story back patios. In the past two years, owners spent approx $100K on renovations including a new roof, LVP flooring, PEX piping system, kitchen cabinets, appliances, sheetrock, interior/exterior paint, insulation, water heater,
Waterfront... FULLY FURNISHED, including BOAT and move-in ready in Shadow Bay! This inviting home offers an open, flexible layout ideal for everyday living or weekend escapes. Enjoy peaceful lake views from the generous outdoor decking and fire pit with a low-maintenance yard designed for relaxing. Inside, modern updates shine: fresh quartz countertops, durable LVP flooring, and a cozy
Like-New Westin Carter VI in The Woodlands Hills! Built in 2021, this 5-bedroom, 4.5-bath home with 2.5-car garage blends elegance, comfort, and function. A tiered rotunda with wrought iron staircase and soaring ceilings sets the tone for the open layout. The island kitchen offers Crystal Ice Quartz counters, 24x12 tile flooring, stainless appliances, and modern cabinetry. The living room
Experience the ultimate Lake Conroe lifestyle at 5401 Zephyr Ln in the prestigious gated community of Harbour Town Club. The open-concept interior features an island kitchen with granite counters, a spacious primary retreat with a spacious walk-in closet and ensuite bath. There is a secondary bedroom downstairs that has its own ensuite bathroom. Living here grants you exclusive access to tons of
Don't miss this opportunity ! This 2.8 acre property features an impressive 427 feet of road frontage along County Line Rd., Making it ideal for commercial ventures, residential construction, or investment use. A great place to bring your business or create the private dream home you've always wanted.
Lightly lived in recent construction in the highly sought-after Woodlands Hills with a primary suite on the main level and a spacious game room upstairs.This Chesmar Versailles plan offers a thoughtful layout with two secondary bedrooms upstairs, providing privacy and flexible living space.The open kitchen features a large island, walk-in pantry, and rich dark accents, while the primary bath
Presenting a stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with a dedicated home office/study, perfect for both relaxation and productivity. Inside, discover a spacious family room, a charming breakfast area, and a dream kitchen designed for the family chef. The primary bedroom offers a luxurious retreat with a soaking tub, a separate shower, and a generously sized walk-in closet. Two additional secondary
Beautiful family home designed with fun and everyday comfort in mind. This 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath property sits on a generous 3⁄4-acre lot and backs up to a wooded area. The spacious primary bedroom is on the 1st floor, the bath has dual sinks, a soaking tub, with a separate walk-in shower. The open floor plan flows easily from the formal dining room into the large kitchen, complete with granite
OPEN WATERFRONT with a true million-dollar view on Lake Conroe! Live like you’re on vacation every day in this 2,399 SF, 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath lakefront retreat perfectly located with 70’ of lake front and majestic open water views. Enjoy your private boat slip, boathouse storage, and lakeside sun deck—ideal for soaking up the sun and enjoying water sports. The massive covered patio is an
Welcome to effortless lakeside living on Lake Conroe. This beautifully furnished, first-floor waterfront condo offers the perfect blend of comfort, privacy, and vacation-style living. Featuring a spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bath layout, the home includes a private guest suite with its own kitchenette and full bathroom—ideal for hosting friends and family or creating a flexible retreat space of your
Charming updated one-story 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in Country Run offers peaceful rural living with quick access to the neighborhood’s private locked boat ramp and Lake Conroe just minutes away. Freshly updated in 2024 with wood-look tile flooring throughout, new interior paint, gutters, hot water heater, and stainless steel appliances, the open-concept layout features a family room, kitchen,
Duplex located close to I45 in Willis. Tile floors throughout the house, kitchen has granite counter tops, a breakfast bar, stainless appliances and the refrigerator is included. Master bedroom has a nice walk-in closet and a private covered patio. Back yard is fenced.
Ready for a fresh start? Embrace the excitement of homeownership in RockRose Ranch with our exclusive move-in specials! Seize the chance to experience comfort in 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, offering 1568 sq. ft. of modern living space. This community offers a resort-style pool, walking trails, and fire pits in a tranquil, countryside setting, with easy access to shopping. Get your dream home at
Make the Winning Move! Sign by 3/15 and get 8 Weeks Free Teal Crossing, located in the charming town of Willis, TX, provides easy access to essential services such as grocery stores, schools, and medical facilities. It is ideal for those seeking a quieter lifestyle without sacrificing proximity to everyday necessities.Surrounded by the natural beauty of Lake Conroe, Teal Crossing offers
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