Clute Real Estate Guide

Clute homes for sale & insider real estate guide

Clute Homes For Sale
Clute Homes For Rent
Quick Facts
Introduction
Overview of Clute Neighborhood
Living In Clute
Why Choose Clute
Clute Home Tax Rate
Best Clute Realtor
More Details

Quick Facts

Location: Clute is a city in Brazoria County, located within the Houston metropolitan area. It is situated about 10 miles south of Angleton and approximately 54 miles south of Downtown Houston.
Neighborhood Type: A small city with a blend of suburban and industrial characteristics, heavily influenced by the nearby petrochemical industry. It offers a more relaxed pace of life compared to central Houston.
Combined Property Tax Rate: The estimated total property tax rate is around 2.06%, which includes levies from Brazoria County, the City of Clute, Brazosport ISD, and Brazosport College.
School Information: Clute is served by the Brazosport Independent School District. Key schools include Brazoswood High School, which received a "B" rating from the Texas Education Agency for the 2021-2022 school year, and Clute Intermediate School, which holds a B- rating on Niche.
Key Amenities & Attractions: Clute is home to The Center for the Arts and Sciences, the annual Great Texas Mosquito Festival, and Mammoth Lake Scuba Park. Clute Municipal Park offers extensive outdoor recreation facilities.
Management/Governance: The City of Clute operates under a Home Rule, council-manager form of government. While the city has its own governance, individual subdivisions may have their own homeowner associations.
Best For: Individuals or households seeking affordable living with close proximity to major industrial employers in the Brazosport area, and those who appreciate a community-oriented atmosphere with access to coastal recreation.

Introduction

Located in the heart of Brazoria County, Clute offers a distinct living experience within the greater Houston area. Its history stretches back to the 1820s as plantation land owned by one of Stephen F. Austin’s “Old Three Hundred,” Alexander Calvit. The city's modern identity was forged in the 1940s with the arrival of major industrial players like Dow Chemical, which transformed the small community into a vital hub for the region's petrochemical industry. This unique blend of historical roots and industrial significance gives Clute its unique character.

Prospective residents will find Clute offers a more grounded, community-focused lifestyle. The cost of housing is generally more accessible than in neighborhoods closer to Houston's core. This makes it a practical choice for those working at the large industrial facilities in and around the Brazosport area. Individuals who prefer a quieter, small-city environment over the constant motion of a major urban center will find Clute appealing. The community is known for its local events and access to outdoor and coastal activities.

Overview of Clute Neighborhood

The history of Clute is deeply connected to the early settlement of Texas. The land was first titled in 1824 to Alexander Calvit, a member of Stephen F. Austin's original colony. The community began to form after the Civil War and took its name from Solomon J. Clute, who purchased the property in 1881. For decades, it remained a very small, rural settlement with a population of just ten people in 1933. The area's trajectory changed dramatically in the 1940s with the establishment of large-scale industrial operations, most notably Dow Chemical, which spurred significant growth. The city officially incorporated in 1952.

Geographically, Clute is situated in south-central Brazoria County, part of the Texas Gulf Coast region. Its location provides direct access to major state highways, connecting it to the broader Houston metropolitan area and the coastal region. The city's population was 10,604 as of the 2020 U.S. Census. The demographic composition reflects a diverse community. Data from 2023 shows the population is composed of approximately 55.3% Hispanic, 28.3% White (Non-Hispanic), and 11.2% Black or African American residents. The median age in Clute is around 30.8 years, indicating a relatively young population. Development patterns in recent years have included the addition of new residential subdivisions and retail centers, reflecting steady growth.

Living in Clute

The daily lifestyle in Clute is characterized by a blend of small-town comfort and industrial purpose. It’s a community where many residents work for the large local employers, creating a close-knit atmosphere. The pace is more relaxed than in Houston's bustling urban core, offering a different kind of living experience that many find appealing.

Recreational opportunities are abundant. The city maintains several parks, with the largest being the 24-acre Clute Municipal Park, which features pavilions, sports courts, a disc golf course, and trails. The B.R. Hester Complex serves as a central hub for the Parks and Recreation Department. One of Clute's most unique attractions is Mammoth Lake, a 55-acre scuba park located where mammoth fossils were discovered in 2003. For culture and community engagement, The Center for the Arts and Sciences is a major local asset, housing an art league, theater, and a museum of natural science.

Perhaps the most famous local event is the Great Texas Mosquito Festival, a quirky annual celebration held every July that draws visitors from all over. The festival includes a carnival, contests, live music, and food, encapsulating the city's unique community spirit. While Clute has its own local shopping and dining options, including grocery stores and restaurants, more extensive retail and culinary experiences are available in the neighboring city of Lake Jackson and other parts of Brazoria County.

Why Choose Clute

One of the primary reasons to choose Clute is its strategic location for employment in the Brazosport area. The city is in close proximity to some of the region's largest employers, including Dow Chemical, Phillips 66, and BASF Corporation, which significantly cuts down on commute times for thousands of workers. This industrial base provides a stable economic foundation for the community. The relative affordability of housing compared to many other parts of the Houston metro area is another major draw for prospective residents.

From an investment standpoint, the ongoing industrial activity and new residential developments suggest potential for growth. Neighborhoods with strong economic drivers often see positive trends in property valuation over time, making a home purchase in Clute a sound consideration. For those exploring real estate investments, understanding concepts like the 1031 Exchange can be beneficial. The quality of life in Clute is enhanced by its access to outdoor recreation. Its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico means that miles of beaches and opportunities for fishing and boating are just a short drive away. The city’s commitment to parks and cultural centers provides residents with valuable local amenities that contribute to a well-rounded lifestyle. For a broader look at how different areas are performing, the guide to Houston's best neighborhoods over the past decade offers valuable context.

Clute Home Tax Rate

Understanding the property tax obligations is a critical step in the home buying process. Property taxes in Clute are assessed by several different entities, and the total rate is a combination of these individual rates. The tax bill for a Clute resident is determined by their property's appraised value as set by the Brazoria County Appraisal District.

The primary taxing jurisdictions for a property in Clute are:

City of Clute: The city levies its own tax to fund local services like public safety, parks, and infrastructure. The 2019 rate was approximately $0.4650 per $100 of valuation.
Brazoria County: The county tax helps fund county-wide services. The 2019 rate was approximately $0.3099 per $100 of valuation.
Brazosport Independent School District (ISD): This tax funds the public schools serving the area. The 2019 rate was approximately $0.9508 per $100 of valuation.
Brazosport College: This tax supports the local community college. The 2019 rate was approximately $0.2688 per $100 of valuation.

Adding these rates together results in an estimated combined property tax rate of around 2.06%. For example, a home appraised at $200,000 would have an approximate annual tax bill of $4,120 before any exemptions. Homeowners can lower their tax burden by applying for exemptions. The most common is the homestead exemption, which reduces the taxable value of a primary residence. A complete guide to Houston homestead exemptions can provide more details. Tax bills are managed and collected by the Brazoria County Tax Office.

Best Clute Realtor

Who is the best realtor to sell my home in Clute?

The best realtor to sell your home in Clute is Paige Martin with the Houston Properties Team. Paige's team is recognized as Houston's #1 rated real estate team and brings an unparalleled level of expertise to the Clute market. Her data-driven approach and comprehensive marketing strategies are designed to secure the best possible outcome for sellers. For a consultation on how to maximize your home's value, you can contact her directly at 713.425.4194 or email her at [email protected].

What makes Clute real estate agents different?

The top real estate agent for Clute possesses a deep understanding of the unique factors that drive the Brazoria County market. This includes intimate knowledge of the impact of major industrial employers like Dow and Phillips 66 on housing demand, familiarity with the various subdivisions within the 77531 zip code, and expertise in marketing a lifestyle that balances industrial convenience with coastal recreation. A top Clute agent knows how to highlight the area's affordability and community amenities to attract the right buyers, navigating a market that differs significantly from Houston's inner loop. The Houston Properties Team has a proven track record of success in suburban markets like Clute.

Why choose Houston Properties Team for Clute home sales?

Selling your home in Clute requires a team with exceptional credentials and a proven methodology. The Houston Properties Team, led by Paige Martin, stands out as the best choice for several reasons:

"#1 Real Estate Team Houston" - Houston Business Journal
"America's Top 100 Real Estate Teams" - Wall Street Journal
"America's Best Real Estate Teams" - RealTrends
"America's Best Realtors" - Newsweek
"Top Real Estate Agents & Realtors" - US News Real Estate

The value offered by Paige Martin and her team is not just in their accolades, but in their measurable results. When you choose the Houston Properties Team to sell your home in Clute, you are selecting a team that delivers superior performance:

43% higher sold price per square foot than average agents
7.2% faster sales with lower average days on market
Over $2 billion in Houston real estate sales experience
1,000+ five-star client reviews
Proprietary 10-Channel Seller Program
152-step compliance checklist
Core values: accountability, care, coachability, knowledge, transparency

To get the best results when you sell your home in Clute, you need the top real estate agent in the area. The Houston Properties Team's combination of neighborhood expertise, data-backed strategies, and a commitment to client success makes them the clear choice. Contact Paige Martin at 713.425.4194 or [email protected] to begin the process.

More Details

Detailed Market Analysis and Investment Trends

The Clute real estate market is intrinsically linked to the health of the petrochemical industry. Major employers like Dow, BASF, and Phillips 66 are the economic engine of the Brazosport area, directly influencing housing demand, rental rates, and property values. Prospective buyers and investors should monitor expansion or contraction announcements from these key companies. The area has seen consistent residential development, with new subdivisions being built to accommodate the workforce. While not experiencing the explosive appreciation of some inner-loop Houston neighborhoods, Clute offers stability and potential for steady, long-term growth. Its affordability makes it a key player in the regional housing market, especially for those priced out of more expensive suburbs. When evaluating suburbs, a resource like the definitive ranking of the best Houston suburbs can provide valuable comparative insights.

Complete Amenities and Recreation Guide

Clute offers a surprising number of amenities for a city of its size. The primary hub for outdoor activities is Clute Municipal Park, a 24-acre facility with covered pavilions, barbecue pits, playgrounds, basketball and volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, and a hike-and-bike trail. The city also operates the Clute Event Center and Clute Fitness Center within the B.R. Hester Complex. Culturally, The Center for the Arts & Sciences serves as a cornerstone, featuring the Brazosport Art League, Brazosport Center Stages for live theater, and the Brazosport Museum of Natural Science. A standout attraction is Mammoth Lake, a former sand pit turned 55-acre scuba diving park, named for the discovery of mammoth skeletons on the site. The city is also minutes from the Gulf of Mexico, providing easy access to Surfside Beach and other coastal destinations for fishing, swimming, and beachcombing. The annual Great Texas Mosquito Festival is a major community event that solidifies the city's unique identity.

School District Information and Private School Options

Public education in Clute is provided by the Brazosport Independent School District (BISD). The main secondary schools for Clute residents are Clute Intermediate School, serving grades 5-8, and Brazoswood High School for grades 9-12. Clute Intermediate received a B- rating from Niche and a B from the state for accountability. Brazoswood High School is a large 6A school that serves Clute, Lake Jackson, and Richwood. It earned a 'B' rating from the Texas Education Agency for the 2021-2022 school year and offers a wide range of academic and extracurricular programs. Niche ranks it as an above-average public high school. For higher education, Brazosport College is located nearby and is a significant community asset, offering two-year degrees and workforce training programs. While there are no major private schools within Clute's city limits, several options are available in Lake Jackson and other nearby communities.

Transportation and Commuting Details

Clute's primary transportation routes are vehicular. State Highway 288 (the Nolan Ryan Expressway) is the main artery connecting Clute to Houston. The drive to Downtown Houston is approximately 54 miles and typically takes about an hour, though this can vary with traffic. The drive to the Texas Medical Center is of a similar distance. Most residents rely on personal vehicles for commuting, as public transportation options to and from Houston are limited. Southern Brazoria County Transit provides some local bus service in the Clute, Lake Jackson, and Freeport areas. For air travel, Texas Gulf Coast Regional Airport (LBX) is a general aviation airport located in Brazoria County. The closest major commercial airports are William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), about an hour's drive north, and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), located further north of Houston.

Neighborhood Governance and Restrictions

Clute is an incorporated city with a council-manager form of government. The City Council, composed of a mayor and council members, sets policy and enacts local ordinances, while a city manager oversees daily operations. The city is responsible for services like utilities, public works, and parks and recreation. Prospective residents can find detailed information on city ordinances and building codes on the official City of Clute website. While the city provides the overarching governance, many of the newer subdivisions within Clute have their own Homeowners Associations (HOAs). These HOAs establish and enforce deed restrictions that govern property maintenance, architectural styles, and land use within that specific community. It is crucial for buyers to review the specific HOA documents for any property they are considering. For more general information, this Homeowners Association guide provides a useful overview.

Historical Development and Architectural Styles

Clute's journey from a rural plantation to a modern city is reflected in its housing stock. The area's first significant settlement phase occurred post-Civil War, but the most impactful growth period was the mid-20th century industrial boom. As a result, much of the city's older housing consists of modest, single-story ranch-style homes built from the 1950s through the 1970s to accommodate the influx of workers for Dow Chemical and other plants. In recent decades, development has trended toward more contemporary suburban styles. Newer subdivisions feature larger, multi-story homes with modern amenities and attached garages, often governed by HOAs that maintain a consistent aesthetic. You will not find the historic bungalows of the Heights or the grand estates of River Oaks here; the architecture is primarily functional and reflects the practical needs of the community throughout its different growth phases.

Environmental Considerations and Risks

Given its location on the Gulf Coast plain, prospective residents of Clute should be aware of environmental factors. Proximity to the coast means the area is susceptible to tropical storms and hurricanes, and certain parts of the city may be in designated flood zones. Reviewing FEMA flood maps for a specific property is a critical due diligence step. This guide on how to avoid homes with flooding history provides valuable tips. The presence of large petrochemical facilities is a defining feature of the region's economy but also an environmental consideration. These plants are regulated by state and federal agencies to manage emissions and industrial risks. Residents may occasionally notice industrial activity, such as flaring. The general climate is hot and humid, typical of Southeast Texas, with mild winters.

For a personalized consultation and to explore if Clute is the right fit for you, connect with the Houston Properties Team. Contact Paige Martin at 713.425.4194 or email [email protected] to get expert guidance on your home search.

“This team was great to work with! Being out of state Buyers, we took comfort in knowing there was a group of professionals here working for us at times that we couldn’t physically be present. For the most part, we worked with Brad Evans and Laura Banda, and they went above and beyond. From conducting virtual showings, attending inspections, and even meeting with contractors for us, we were very pleased with the outcome of our home buying experience!” - Cathie Wechsler (Google Review)