The city of Katy, Texas west of Houston is the historic center of the larger Katy Area - a dynamic 181 square mile community covering three counties along the rapidly growing I-10 corridor. With an estimated population of around 185,000 the Katy Area is fast becoming a magnet for young urban professionals and their families attracted by a low cost-of-living (14 percent below the national average), a highly diversified economy, plentiful jobs and excellent schools.
Over 50 percent of the Katy Area population is under the age of 35, making it one of the youngest cities in the country. Despite a robust and expanding economy, Katy remains affordable thanks to a booming residential construction industry. The Katy Area is ripe with such diverse housing options ranging from apartments and condominiums to large estate homes some with enough acreage to raise horses. Others boast championship golf courses as their backyard. Tennis courts and swimming pools are generally the norm as are the endless list of amenities offered across various subdivisions.
With a modest cost of living and a well-paid workforce, Katy makes good economic sense for most people considering relocation. Housing prices are well suited even a young family can find a starter home. High quality residential neighborhoods and amenities abound in the Katy Area. Chief among these is Cinco Ranch, which offers its very own private beach club and swim lagoon and YMCA facility. Grand Lakes, Green Trails, Kelliwood are older, yet offer similar perks. For the outdoor lover, Woodcreek Reserve offers sports fields, over a mile of wooded nature trails, 3 parks, tennis courts, family pool center, and a 100-acre park that has a greenbelt system connecting the homes. Its stocked lakes and picnic tables surround old oak trees. This beckons to those who want to live away from the hustle and bustle of Houston, while still having quick access to the great outdoor.
One of Katy's biggest selling points for growing families is the availability of a comprehensive education. The Katy Independent School District offers students major advantages, from the latest technology to a low student/teacher ratio. Katy's ideal location along Interstate 10 provides great transportation access to George Bush Intercontinental Airport, William P. Hobby Airport, the Port of Houston and rail service from Union Pacific. Access to these international transportation hubs has contributed largely to Katy's diversified economy, particularly strong in corporate headquarters, energy corporations, industrial measurement controls and distribution centers.
At 1.3 million-square-feet Katy Mills is one of the largest retail outlets in Texas. This market dominant retail and entertainment destination features 200 of the biggest names in manufacturer and retail outlets, off-price retailers and unique specialty stores, the Katy Field Day Food Court, various themed restaurants, a 20 screen, state of the art, multiplex movie theater and several high-quality, family-oriented entertainment venues. The Katy Texas area boasts strong community spirit, great schools, a pleasant subtropical climate; plenty of affordable housing in safe, clean neighborhoods, and a thriving business climate.
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