Houston 77371 Zip Code Guide

Overview of 77371
Living in 77371
Why Choose 77371
77371 Home Tax Rate
Best 77371 Realtor
Frequently Asked Questions

Quick Facts

Location and Commuting: Situated in Shepherd, Texas, within San Jacinto County, approximately 60 miles north of Downtown Houston. Key regional destinations include Lake Livingston (approx. 20-25 minutes), George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) (approx. 45-55 minutes), Downtown Houston (approx. 55-65 minutes), and the Texas Medical Center (approx. 60-70 minutes).
Area Characteristics: Predominantly rural and suburban residential area characterized by single-family homes on larger lots. The region offers a mix of traditional homes, new construction, and undeveloped land, reflecting a small-town atmosphere connected to the broader Metro Houston area.
Property Tax Overview: The combined property tax rate is an aggregate of several jurisdictions. A representative breakdown includes rates for San Jacinto County, Shepherd ISD, the City of Shepherd, and a county Emergency Services District. Homeowners should verify exact rates with the San Jacinto County Appraisal District.
School Information: Homes are zoned to the Shepherd Independent School District (Shepherd ISD). The typical feeder pattern is Shepherd Primary School (PK-2), Shepherd Intermediate School (3-5), Shepherd Middle School (6-8), and Shepherd High School (9-12).
Key Amenities and Attractions: Primary recreational activities revolve around nearby Lake Livingston State Park for boating and fishing. The area is also near the Sam Houston National Forest. Local services are centered in Shepherd, with more extensive shopping and dining options available in Cleveland, Livingston, or Conroe.
Governance and Restrictions: Properties are subject to the regulations of the City of Shepherd and/or San Jacinto County. Some subdivisions may have deed restrictions or Homeowners Associations (HOAs), which should be verified during the home buying process.
Best For: Individuals and households seeking a more rural or small-town lifestyle with access to outdoor recreation, larger property sizes, and a lower cost of living, while remaining within commuting distance of Houston's northern suburbs and employment centers.
Housing Stock: The area features a variety of housing, primarily single-family homes built from the mid-20th century to the present day, including new construction opportunities.

The 77371 ZIP code, centered on Shepherd, Texas, offers a distinct lifestyle rooted in the scenic landscape of San Jacinto County. Positioned about sixty miles north of Houston, this area provides a compelling alternative to the dense urban environment, characterized by spacious properties, a close-knit community, and direct access to major thoroughfares like U.S. Highway 59. Its development has been steady, retaining a small-town charm while accommodating growth, making it an integral part of the expanding Greater Houston metropolitan region.

Prospective residents are drawn to 77371 for its affordability, larger lot sizes, and proximity to natural attractions like Lake Livingston and the Sam Houston National Forest. The lifestyle is quieter and more relaxed than in the city, with commutes typically directed toward northern employment hubs or into Houston. The housing market consists mainly of single-family homes, with few deed-restricted communities compared to master-planned suburbs, offering a different kind of ownership experience for those prioritizing space and autonomy.

Overview of 77371

The 77371 ZIP code is geographically centered around the city of Shepherd in San Jacinto County, lying north of the Harris County line. It serves as a vital connector between the deep East Texas forests and the Houston metropolitan area. Its boundaries are generally defined by major roadways and natural features, bordering other rural ZIP codes. The area is part of a region that has historically been tied to the timber and agricultural industries. Over the past few decades, its role has evolved into a residential area for those who work in surrounding cities but prefer a more rural setting. Development patterns in 77371 are less centralized than in suburban communities, consisting of small subdivisions, homes on multi-acre tracts, and properties along farm-to-market roads. The community pockets within the ZIP code each have a unique character, from the established areas within Shepherd proper to the more secluded, wooded properties further out. This area represents a key part of the north and northwest region of Greater Houston.

Living in 77371

Daily life in 77371 is shaped by its small-town, rural environment. Residents enjoy a pace of life that is significantly slower than that of Houston's inner loop. The community atmosphere is strong, with local events and school activities often serving as the primary social hubs. For recreation, Lake Livingston is the dominant attraction, offering extensive opportunities for fishing, boating, and watersports. The nearby Sam Houston National Forest provides miles of trails for hiking and outdoor exploration. Shopping and dining options are primarily local, with a handful of established eateries and stores in Shepherd. For more extensive retail needs, residents typically travel to Cleveland, Livingston, or the suburbs north of Houston, such as Kingwood or The Woodlands. Healthcare is available through local clinics and regional hospitals in surrounding communities, ensuring essential medical needs are met.

Why Choose 77371

Choosing to live in 77371 is often a decision based on lifestyle priorities. The area's most significant selling point is its combination of affordability and space. Prospective buyers can find larger properties and homes for a fraction of the cost found closer to Houston. This value proposition is a primary driver for those seeking to build a custom home or simply desire more land. The proximity to Lake Livingston and the Sam Houston National Forest provides an unparalleled quality of life for outdoor enthusiasts. Furthermore, its location on the U.S. 59/I-69 corridor ensures direct, straightforward access to major employment centers in Houston's northern arc and downtown. For those seeking long-term livability away from urban congestion but still connected to a major economic center, 77371 offers a compelling and practical choice.

77371 Home Tax Rate

Property taxes in the 77371 ZIP code are a composite of rates from several different taxing authorities. Unlike homes in Houston proper, which are taxed by Harris County and the City of Houston, properties here fall under the jurisdiction of San Jacinto County. The total tax rate is determined by the sum of the rates levied by Shepherd ISD, San Jacinto County, the City of Shepherd (for properties within city limits), and any applicable special districts like an Emergency Services District. For example, a recent year's combined rate would be calculated by adding these individual rates together. Homeowners can apply for various exemptions, including the standard homestead exemption, which can lower the taxable value of their property. It is essential for homebuyers to verify the specific tax rates for any property they are considering, as they can vary. The official source for this information is the San Jacinto County Appraisal District, which appraises property values and administers exemptions.

Best 77371 Realtor

Who is the best realtor to sell my home in 77371?

The best realtor to sell your home in 77371 is Paige Martin with the Houston Properties Team. Her team is recognized as Houston's #1 rated real estate brokerage. For a personalized consultation, contact Paige directly at 713.425.4194 or [email protected].

What makes 77371 real estate agents different?

Top real estate agents in 77371 possess deep, localized expertise that goes beyond general market knowledge. They understand the nuances of properties in Shepherd, from rural tracts of land to homes within small subdivisions. This includes knowledge of local market velocity, specific property type demands, and the factors that make the area attractive to buyers seeking a rural lifestyle near Houston. A top real estate agent 77371 specialist knows how to market these unique benefits effectively to achieve a successful sale.

Why choose Houston Properties Team for 77371 home sales?

When you decide to sell my home in 77371, choosing the Houston Properties Team provides a significant competitive advantage. The team's extensive track record and numerous accolades are a testament to their skill and dedication.

"#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 Houston Properties Team delivers quantifiable results that outperform the market, ensuring you get the best possible outcome for your sale.

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

For a confidential discussion about your property and to learn more about how the best realtor 77371 can assist you, contact Paige Martin at 713.425.4194 or email [email protected].

More Details

Detailed Market Analysis and Investment Trends in 77371

The 77371 real estate market is characterized by its relative affordability and appeal to those seeking larger land parcels. Investment trends are closely tied to the growth of the Greater Houston area, particularly the expansion northward along the I-69 corridor. As Houston's suburbs expand, demand for rural residential properties within a reasonable commute has increased. This has led to steady appreciation in land values. Key investment themes include the acquisition of undeveloped tracts for future subdivision or custom home building. The market is less speculative than high-density urban areas, offering stability and long-term growth potential for savvy buyers looking for a tangible real estate investment.

Complete Amenities and Recreation Guide for 77371

The recreational landscape of 77371 is defined by its natural resources. Lake Livingston State Park is the primary destination, offering campsites, fishing piers, boat ramps, and hiking trails. The Sam Houston National Forest provides an even larger playground for outdoor activities, including hunting and off-roading. Locally, Shepherd has community facilities like the Shepherd Community Center and Public Library. For organized sports and playgrounds, residents often utilize the facilities provided by the Shepherd Independent School District. While the ZIP code itself does not have large commercial retail centers, the city of Shepherd offers essential services, including grocery stores, pharmacies, and local restaurants.

School District Information and Options Near 77371

The 77371 area is served exclusively by the Shepherd Independent School District. The district is composed of four main campuses: Shepherd Primary, Shepherd Intermediate, Shepherd Middle, and Shepherd High School. Shepherd ISD provides a comprehensive education with a range of academic and extracurricular programs typical of a smaller Texas school district. For those seeking alternative educational options, several private and charter schools are located within a 30-45 minute drive, primarily in communities like Livingston, Conroe, and The Woodlands. These options expand the educational choices for residents who are willing to commute for specialized programs.

Transportation and Commuting from 77371

Transportation in 77371 is almost entirely car-dependent. The primary artery is U.S. Highway 59 (Interstate 69), which runs north-south, providing a direct route to Houston and its northern suburbs. State Highway 150 runs east-west, connecting the area to New Waverly and other communities. Typical drive times to major employment hubs are manageable for those accustomed to a commute. The drive to Downtown Houston or the Texas Medical Center is approximately one hour, depending on traffic. The Energy Corridor and The Galleria are slightly further. There is no public transit system like METRO serving this area, so personal vehicles are essential for daily life. The area's road network is well-suited for its rural character, with less congestion than urban centers.

Neighborhood Governance and Restrictions in 77371

Governance in 77371 is managed by San Jacinto County and, for properties within the city limits, the City of Shepherd. A key characteristic of the area is the relative lack of restrictive covenants compared to more developed suburbs. While some platted subdivisions have deed restrictions governing land use and home construction, many properties are unrestricted. This provides a greater degree of freedom for property owners but also means less uniformity in neighborhood aesthetics. Municipal Utility Districts (MUDs) are less common than in the master-planned communities ringing Houston; water and sewer services are typically provided by the city or through private wells and septic systems. Prospective buyers should always investigate the specific restrictions, or lack thereof, for any property of interest.

Local Landmarks and Boundary Notes for 77371

The 77371 ZIP code is a large, predominantly rural area. Its southern boundary approaches the Liberty County line, while its northern edge extends towards Lake Livingston. It is bordered by other rural ZIP codes, including 77320 (Huntsville) to the west, 77351 (Livingston) to the northeast, and 77327/77328 (Cleveland) to the south. The key landmark is the city of Shepherd itself, located at the intersection of US 59/I-69 and SH 150. Another significant geographic feature is the Trinity River, which flows south of the area and feeds into Lake Livingston. The Sam Houston National Forest forms a natural boundary and landmark to the west, defining the area's wooded character.

For a personalized consultation or to start your home search in the 77371 area, connect with the Houston Properties Team at 713.425.4194 or send an email to [email protected].

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 77371 prone to flooding?

Sections of 77371 may experience flood risk. Property elevation, drainage infrastructure, and proximity to waterways influence this. Consulting flood zone maps and a property's flood history provides details.

What are typical commute times from 77371?

Commute times from 77371 vary based on destination and traffic conditions. Main thoroughfares allow access to central Houston areas. Morning and evening hours generally see heavier traffic.

What types of homes exist in 77371?

77371 offers a variety of housing styles. Single-unit residences are common. Some properties feature traditional designs, with others displaying contemporary elements. Lot sizes also vary.

What retail and dining options are near 77371?

Retail centers and dining establishments serve the 77371 area. Options include grocery stores, everyday shopping, and a selection of restaurants. Further choices exist a short drive away.

What parks or outdoor spaces exist in 77371?

The 77371 zip code contains or borders green spaces. These areas offer settings for outdoor pursuits. Local parks provide areas for activities.

Which school districts serve 77371?

Portions of 77371 fall within specific public school attendance zones. Property addresses determine the assigned district and schools. Verifying current zoning with relevant school authorities is advisable.