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
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Scott Wiggins
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Agents Specializing in this Area
Horacio Fuentes
Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Gary Greene - Lake Conroe South
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On average, homes in Willis, TX sell after 73 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Willis, TX over the last 12 months is $290,000, down 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
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
Open House 11am–3pm 6/27/26. Experience like-new living without the wait in this Chesmar Homes Hillcrest plan in the highly sought-after master-planned community of The Woodlands Hills. This 4-bedroom, 3-bath home features designer finishes, VersaLift attic system lifting up to 250 lbs for easier storage access, and a walk-in shower added to a secondary bath. The backyard offers a serene,
Lock in a RARE 2.25% assumable VA loan available to qualified buyers! Nestled in The Woodlands Hills with no rear neighbors, this beautifully designed 4-bedroom, 3-bath home with a private office and 2-car garage blends comfort, function, and elevated style. A stunning rotunda entry and 12-foot ceilings create a grand first impression, opening to a bright, spacious floor plan filled with natural
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
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
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
This one is hard to beat! Welcome to this 5,500 SF home set on an over 14,000 SF waterfront lot boasting an expansive backyard with wrought iron fencing & a peaceful water backdrop w/ no rear neighbors crowding in. Inside, the open layout connects 2 spacious living areas w/ fireplaces, the formal dining and & a chef’s kitchen featuring Viking appliances, oversized island & designer chandeliers
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
Lake view residence in the quietly coveted Twin Shores community of Willis. Thoughtfully updated with a new roof, new HVAC system, electoral panel and surge protector and new flooring, this home blends modern upgrades with a relaxed lakeside setting. The interior offers generous living spaces, oversized bathrooms, and an open, comfortable flow designed for everyday ease and entertaining. Large
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,
Discover peaceful country living in this beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home set on 2.795 tranquil acres in Hidden Springs Ranch. Resting at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, the property offers gentle privacy with an open yard framed by a wooded backdrop. Inside, soft natural light, thoughtful finishes, and inviting spaces create a sense of ease. The spacious primary suite features a
Dane Gates
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Premier Properties
WATERFRONT PROPERTY! AMAZING SHORT TERM RENTAL OPPORTUNITY! MUST SEE TO APPRCIATE!!!!!! Located in Shadow Bay on Lake Conroe, 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
3-Story Townhome 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 ceilig and high double door. Room sizes are approximate and should be measured if inportant. No Dogs allowed - All pets mmust be approved and deposits will apply. No fenced
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
Charming 2 bed 2 bath home is ready for a tenant! 969 SQ FT single story home features high ceilings and no carpet throughout. Kitchen has granite countertops, big island for meal prep, stainless steel Frigidaire appliances and soft closing cabinets. Home includes refrigerator and washer/dryer. The neighborhood as a community pool, park, basketball court and other enjoyable outdoor activities.
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 recreation opportunities, from boating
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
Lake Breeze in Willis, Texas offers a peaceful lifestyle near the shores of Lake Conroe. Just off Highway Seventy Five and minutes from Interstate Forty Five, this pet friendly, homeowners association managed community features spacious homes, quiet streets, and easy access to parks, schools, and shopping.With nearby marinas, walking trails, and a short drive to Conroe and The Woodlands,
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
SPLIT THE PAYMENT! Reserve your new home by paying 50% of your security deposit now, with the remaining balance due before move-in.Elevate your living experience with this exceptional 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom rental with 1851 square feet in Moran Ranch Community. This impeccably maintained property offers an inspiring blend of elegance and functionality. The interior boasts stylish
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