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 72 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Willis, TX over the last 12 months is $289,990, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
The Vintage at Lake Conroe is a rare live-in-one, rent-two opportunity in one of Willis's fastest-growing corridors. Nestled within a secure, gated community of 60 buildings near Lake Conroe and just 7 minutes from I-45, this three-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom property delivers the accessibility tenants demand and the income potential investors seek.Each unit is thoughtfully designed with an
Newly completed Modern Farmhouse on 1.65 wooded acres in Republic Grand Ranch. Large kitchen which features granite countertops, open concept design, Forno kitchen appliances. Sealed concrete floors throughout home. Includes 1000 Gallon Propane Tank, whole house surge protector, Reolink, Cat6 wiring, Gutters, and Sprinkler System. High Speed Fiber Optic. Rough-in for future water softener. (3)
The Vintage at Lake Conroe is a rare live-in-one, rent-two opportunity in one of Willis's fastest-growing corridors. Nestled within a secure, gated community of 60 buildings near Lake Conroe and just 7 minutes from I-45, this three-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom property delivers the accessibility tenants demand and the income potential investors seek.Each unit is thoughtfully designed with an
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
Welcome home to this stunning 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath gem in The Woodlands Hills! This thoughtfully designed floor plan boasts stylish finishes and an open-concept layout featuring a spacious family room, premium island kitchen, breakfast area, private study, and an upstairs game room. The luxurious primary suite offers dual sinks, a garden tub, stand-alone shower, and a generous walk-in closet.
Dane Gates
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Premier Properties
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 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,
Convenience meets comfort in this well-maintained 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home located in the South Meadows community of Willis. With all bedrooms upstairs, the first floor is dedicated to gathering, relaxing, and everyday living. The open layout connects the kitchen, dining area, and living room, creating a functional space for family or guests. The kitchen is equipped with granite countertops and
Some homes give you rooms. This one gives you room to live. Sit on a 3/4-acre fenced homesite, 11631 Wilgers Way offers space that is easy to appreciate the moment you arrive. The backyard provides room for everyday life outdoors—pets, play, gardening, relaxing, entertaining, or future plans like a pool or outdoor living area. Inside, the home features 5 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and a gameroom,
Discover peaceful country living in Hidden Springs Ranch, where this beautifully updated home sits on 2.795 private acres at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac. Framed by mature trees and a serene wooded backdrop, this property offers the perfect balance of privacy, comfort, and functionality. Inside, you'll find 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a dedicated study, spacious living areas, and a chef-inspired
Dane Gates
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Premier Properties
Welcome to this delightful single-story home in Point Aquarius! Step inside to find a spacious family room with a cozy fireplace, perfect for creating a warm ambiance. The impressive kitchen features a gas cooktop, ample counter and cabinet space, and a center island. This 4 bedroom, 3 bath, 3 car garage home, is recently painted, with a new water heater and fairly new a/c unit. Enjoy the
MOVE-IN READY | RECENTLY REMODELED. This 2,024 sq. ft. home in Lake Conroe Hills features a modern split floor plan with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. Interior upgrades include light luxury vinyl plank flooring (including the stairs), neutral paint throughout the main living areas, premium blinds and sleek new fixtures. The open-concept kitchen is equipped with granite countertops, a new
Beautifully remodeled home offering modern style with rustic charm! The inviting front exterior features fresh landscaping, cedar shutters and columns, a durable metal roof, and a spacious fenced yard with plenty of room to enjoy outdoor living. Step inside to an open-concept layout with light wood-look flooring, recessed lighting, neutral paint tones, and abundant natural light throughout. The
This captivating 3 Bedroom 2 Bath home features dual living areas, a spacious kitchen with granite-topped island, and stunning windows that fill the space with natural light. The optional study alcove and spacious primary suite offer flexibility and comfort. Additional highlights include tiled walls in the primary shower, stainless steel appliances, painted flat panel doors, and a dual vanity in
This move-in-ready 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers a versatile two-story layout designed for comfortable everyday living. Kitchen features granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, white cabinetry with adjustable shelving, and a walk-in pantry, all open to the main living area.First floor includes a private study or flex room and a spacious primary suite, providing convenience and
3-story Town Home for lease in Northstar Townhome complex. Living room/dining room, kitchen and 1/2 bath on main floor. Bedrooms upstairs on level 3 with 2 full bathrooms. Big closets with lots of storage. Huge garage with high ceilings. Room sizes are approx. and should be measured if important. No dogs allowed-other pets may be considered on case by case basie, all pets must be approved and
Welcome to The Woodlands Hills, a master-planned community developed by Howard Hughes. This stunning brand-new, never-lived-in one-story home offers 3 bedrooms plus a study, combining comfort and functionality. Enjoy resort-style living with exceptional community amenities including a resort-style pool with lazy river, state-of-the-art fitness center, extensive walking and biking trails, multiple
This is a 4 BR, 2 BA home is located in newly constructed community. Covered Front and Back patios. Vinyl plank flooring throughout. Open kitchen comes with granite counter tops, breakfast bar and so much cabinet space! New Refrigerator, Washer & Dryer included with home! Spacious dining/living room with plenty of natural light. New blinds. Primary bedroom comes with walk-in closet that has
Coming soon - this home is currently being enjoyed by another resident but will be available soon. This home is professionally managed by Tricon, dedicated to creating exceptional rental experiences. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and approximately 1,738 square feet, this well-maintained home offers a high standard of rental living, supported by a team that puts residents first. As a
Sign by July 31st, Get 2 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 abundant outdoor
Welcome to 14880 Coaltown Rd, a stunning single-story home that perfectly blends modern comfort with timeless charm. Featuring a beautiful brick and stone exterior, this home offers 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths. The open-concept layout is filled with natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The kitchen is designed with functionality in mind, overlooking the dining and living areas
Now offering 20-month leases. Sign today and lock in today’s low rate for the next 20 months! Offer valid for new applicants who sign a 20-month lease by July 31st, 2026. Base rent will remain at the 12-month lease rate for the duration of the 20-month term. Offer is contingent on application approval and execution of a lease agreement. Other terms and conditions may apply. This property is
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