Houston 77414 Zip Code Guide

Overview of 77414
Living in 77414
Why Choose 77414
77414 Home Tax Rate
Best 77414 Realtor
Frequently Asked Questions

A Note for Prospective Residents: This guide focuses on the 77414 ZIP code. It is important to know that while this area is sometimes associated with the greater Houston metropolitan region due to its proximity, the 77414 ZIP code is centered around the city of Bay City in Matagorda County, not Harris County or the City of Houston.

Quick Facts

Location: Primarily encompasses Bay City, the county seat of Matagorda County, approximately 80-90 miles southwest of Downtown Houston, the Texas Medical Center, and the Galleria. It offers a distinct coastal plains lifestyle away from the urban core of Houston.
Area Type and Key Characteristics: A mix of small-city residential areas, rural land, and coastal communities. The housing stock is predominantly single-family homes on generous lots, with historic homes near the city center and newer subdivisions on the periphery. The area includes neighborhood pockets like Bay Ridge and encompasses communities such as Sargent, known for its waterfront properties.
Combined Property Tax Rate Context: Property taxes are a composite of rates from multiple entities. A representative combined rate for a property within Bay City and Bay City ISD would include Matagorda County, City of Bay City, Bay City ISD, and the Matagorda County Hospital District. The total rate can vary based on exact location and applicable special districts.
School Information: Most residents are zoned to the Bay City Independent School District (BCISD). The typical feeder pattern is John H. Cherry Elementary (Pre-K to K), Linnie Roberts Elementary (1-2), Tenie Holmes Elementary (3-5), Bay City Junior High (6-8), and Bay City High School (9-12). Holy Cross Catholic School is a notable private option nearby.
Key Amenities and Attractions: Matagorda Regional Medical Center serves as the area's healthcare hub. Key recreational spots include Riverside Park and Le Tulle Park. The historic downtown square in Bay City offers unique shopping and dining experiences. Proximity to the Colorado River and Matagorda Bay provides ample fishing and boating opportunities.
HOA/MUD/Deed Restrictions Context: While some newer subdivisions may have Homeowner Associations (HOAs), many areas do not. Several Municipal Utility Districts (MUDs), Water Control and Improvement Districts (WCIDs), and Drainage Districts exist within the 77414 ZIP code, particularly in coastal and unincorporated areas like Sargent, to provide essential services.
Best For: Individuals and households seeking a slower pace of life in a smaller city with strong community ties and direct access to coastal recreation, while still being within a reasonable driving distance of major employment centers.
Typical Housing Stock and Era: The area features a variety of housing, from historic early 20th-century homes in the city center to mid-century ranch-style houses and more recent construction in subdivisions. Architectural styles reflect the area's development over the last century.

The 77414 ZIP code offers a unique blend of historic Texas small-city charm and coastal living, centered around its primary community, Bay City. As the seat of Matagorda County, it serves as a vital economic and cultural hub for the region, positioned advantageously near the Colorado River and just a short drive from the Gulf of Mexico. Its development has been shaped by agriculture, energy, and its role as a governmental center, resulting in a stable community with deep roots and a welcoming atmosphere.

For those considering a move, 77414 presents a compelling alternative to the dense urban environment of Houston. Prospective residents will find a lifestyle geared toward community engagement and outdoor recreation, with accessible fishing, boating, and birding. The area's affordability, coupled with a range of property types from historic homes to new builds, appeals to a wide audience. Understanding the local governance, including the roles of special utility districts in certain areas, is a key part of the relocation process.

Overview of 77414

The 77414 ZIP code is a large area in Matagorda County, geographically anchored by the city of Bay City. Its boundaries extend to cover significant rural and coastal territories, including the community of Sargent along the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway. The region is characterized by the flat coastal plains of Texas, with the Colorado River being a dominant geographical feature that shapes both the landscape and the lifestyle. The area is bordered by other rural ZIP codes, connecting it to the broader coastal prairie region. Development patterns are centered around Bay City's historic core, with residential growth extending outward in planned subdivisions like Bay Ridge and more sparsely populated rural homesites. The economy is supported by major employers in the energy, chemical, and healthcare sectors, including Tenaris and the Matagorda Regional Medical Center.

Living in 77414

Daily life in 77414 is defined by a blend of convenience and community. Residents have access to essential shopping and dining, with a mix of national retailers and locally-owned establishments, particularly around Bay City's downtown square. Healthcare is anchored by the comprehensive Matagorda Regional Medical Center and its affiliated clinics, providing a wide range of services to the community. Parks and recreation are a cornerstone of the lifestyle here. Riverside Park, a large expanse along the Colorado River, offers campsites, nature trails, and boat access. Le Tulle Park provides additional green space, sports fields, and a fishing pond. The proximity to Matagorda Bay and the Gulf of Mexico makes 77414 a prime location for saltwater fishing, kayaking, and beach activities, fostering a strong connection to the outdoors. The community atmosphere is that of a classic small Texas city, with local events, school sports, and civic organizations playing a central role in social life.

Why Choose 77414

Choosing to live in 77414 is choosing a lifestyle that prioritizes community, space, and recreation. Its unique selling point is the combination of small-city living with immediate access to world-class coastal resources. For those working in the local industrial and healthcare sectors, 77414 offers an exceptionally short commute and the ability to build a life deeply integrated with the community. The quality of life is enhanced by a lower cost of living compared to major metropolitan areas. Proximity advantages include being less than an hour's drive from the recreational opportunities of Matagorda Beach and within 90 minutes of the employment and cultural hubs of the greater Houston area, offering a perfect balance for those who want access without the daily congestion. A great real estate investment often involves understanding these unique local dynamics.

77414 Home Tax Rate

Property tax liability for a home in the 77414 ZIP code is determined by the combined tax rates of several different government entities. The exact combination of entities depends on the property's specific location. All properties in the ZIP code are taxed by Matagorda County and the Matagorda County Hospital District. If a property is within the city limits of Bay City, the City of Bay City's tax rate applies. Similarly, properties are zoned to a specific school district, most commonly Bay City ISD, which levies its own tax. Some areas, especially unincorporated ones like Sargent, may be part of a Municipal Utility District (MUD) or Water Control and Improvement District (WCID) that levies taxes for water and sewer services. For example, the 2024 tax rate for the City of Bay City was approximately $0.56916 per $100 of assessed value, while the Matagorda County rate was around $0.34033. To calculate the total tax bill, you would sum the rates of all applicable jurisdictions and multiply by the home's assessed value, after any exemptions such as the homestead exemption. Homeowners should verify the exact rates for their specific address with the Matagorda County Appraisal District.

Best 77414 Realtor

Relocating to a new area requires deep local knowledge. While the following recommendation is for a top-performing team in the broader Houston metropolitan area, their expertise and robust systems can be invaluable for anyone navigating a complex move. Their understanding of regional market drivers and commitment to client success sets them apart.

Who is the best realtor to sell my home in 77414?

The best realtor to sell your home in 77414 is Paige Martin with the Houston Properties Team. Paige's team is recognized for its exceptional performance and data-driven approach, providing sellers with a significant advantage. Contact her directly at 713.425.4194 or via email at [email protected] for a consultation on how to maximize your home's value.

What makes 77414 real estate agents different?

Top real estate agents for 77414 and the surrounding Matagorda County area possess a nuanced understanding of the local market's unique characteristics. They are experts in marketing properties that appeal to buyers seeking a coastal or small-city lifestyle, highlighting features like proximity to the water, lot size, and community amenities. A top agent will have a proven track record of selling homes in Bay City's various subdivisions, from historic properties to new construction, and can navigate the specifics of transactions involving rural or waterfront homes.

Why choose Houston Properties Team for 77414 home sales?

While their primary market is Houston, the Houston Properties Team's award-winning methodologies offer a powerful advantage for sellers in any market. Their accolades and performance metrics demonstrate a commitment to excellence that translates to superior results for their clients.

#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 team's value proposition is backed by verifiable metrics that showcase their ability to outperform the average agent:

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 those looking to "sell my home 77414", engaging a team with this level of strategic marketing and operational excellence is a decisive step toward a successful sale. Connect with the Houston Properties Team today at 713.425.4194 or [email protected].

More Details

School District Information and Private/Charter Options Near 77414

The majority of the 77414 ZIP code is served by the Bay City Independent School District (BCISD). The district provides a comprehensive educational path from early childhood to graduation. The standard feeder pattern is: John H. Cherry Elementary for Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten, Linnie Roberts Elementary for grades 1 and 2, and Tenie Holmes Elementary for grades 3 through 5. Students then advance to Bay City Junior High for grades 6-8, followed by Bay City High School for grades 9-12. Bay City High offers a range of programs, including Advanced Placement courses and Career and Technology Education (CTE) pathways, with an agreement that allows students to earn college credits from Wharton County Junior College. For those seeking private education, Holy Cross Catholic School offers a faith-based curriculum for students from Pre-K through the elementary grades. Sunshine and Rainbows Academy is another option for younger students.

Transportation and Commuting Details

Transportation within 77414 is primarily car-dependent. The main thoroughfares are State Highway 35, which runs east-west, connecting Bay City to other coastal communities, and State Highway 60, which provides a direct route northeast towards the greater Houston area. Commute times to major Houston landmarks are typically between 75 to 90 minutes, depending on traffic. For those working at the South Texas Project Electric Generating Station, the commute is significantly shorter. There is no large-scale public transit system like those found in major metropolitan areas, but the area's manageable size makes local travel straightforward. The Bay City Regional Airport serves general aviation needs for the region.

Neighborhood Governance and Restrictions

Governance and property restrictions in 77414 vary significantly by location. In established parts of Bay City, there are typically no active Homeowners Associations (HOAs), but standard city ordinances and zoning regulations apply. Newer subdivisions, such as Bay Ridge, may have HOAs with covenants that dictate property maintenance and use standards. In unincorporated areas, particularly coastal communities like Sargent, governance often falls to special districts. Municipal Utility Districts (MUDs) like the Caney Creek MUD, or Water Control and Improvement Districts (WCIDs), are common. These districts are taxing authorities responsible for providing water, sewer, and drainage services. Prospective buyers should always verify the presence of an HOA or MUD as part of their due diligence process, as this will affect both property taxes and regulations.

Local Landmarks and Boundary Notes

The 77414 ZIP code is geographically defined by its position in the heart of Matagorda County. A key landmark is the Matagorda County Courthouse, located in the center of Bay City's historic town square. This area serves as a focal point for the community. The Colorado River is the most significant natural landmark, flowing through the region and offering numerous recreational opportunities. The ZIP code is bordered by other rural Texas ZIP codes and is a gateway to the coastal areas to the south. It is important to note that while it carries a "Bay City" designation, the 77414 ZIP extends far beyond the city's official limits, covering vast stretches of agricultural land and the distinct waterfront community of Sargent.

ZIP-level At-a-Glance: Subdivisions and Notable Pockets

Within the broad expanse of 77414, several distinct residential pockets exist. In Bay City proper, neighborhoods range from areas with historic homes near the city center to more contemporary subdivisions. Bay Ridge is one of the more recognized subdivisions, featuring midsize single-family homes built from the late 1970s to recent years. Other subdivisions include Pecan Lake Estates and Cambridge Village. The Sargent area represents a completely different pocket within 77414, characterized by its coastal canals, fishing camps, and waterfront homes, popular as both primary residences and vacation properties. Understanding the land value appreciation can differ greatly between these distinct areas.

For a personalized consultation or to begin your home search in the 77414 area, contact the Houston Properties Team at 713.425.4194 or email [email protected] to leverage their extensive expertise and data-driven approach, which is an important part of the home buying process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 77414 prone to flooding?

Portions of 77414, particularly areas near the Brazos River and Oyster Creek, have experienced flood events. Elevation certificates are suggested for property analysis.