Houston 77449 Zip Code Guide

Overview of 77449
Living in 77449
Why Choose 77449
77449 Home Tax Rate
Best 77449 Realtor
Frequently Asked Questions

Quick Facts

Location within Houston: Located in west Harris County, approximately 28 miles west of Downtown Houston. The area offers direct access to major employment centers via Interstate 10 (Katy Freeway) and the Grand Parkway (SH 99). Typical drive times are about 30-40 minutes to the Energy Corridor, 40-50 minutes to the Galleria, and 45-60 minutes to the Texas Medical Center or Downtown, depending on traffic. George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) and Hobby (HOU) airports are both roughly a 45-60 minute drive.
Area Type and Key Characteristics: Primarily a residential, suburban area dominated by single-family homes. The 77449 ZIP code features numerous master-planned communities and established subdivisions from the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Lot sizes are typical for modern suburban development, and the area has seen consistent growth in both population and housing stock.
Combined Property Tax Rate Breakdown: The total property tax rate is a combination of several jurisdictions. While exact rates vary by specific address, a typical breakdown includes Harris County, an Independent School District (primarily Katy ISD or Cypress-Fairbanks ISD), and a Municipal Utility District (MUD). MUD tax rates can range significantly, often from $0.25 to over $1.00 per $100 of assessed value, making it a critical factor in the total tax liability.
School Information: The 77449 ZIP code is split between two highly-regarded school districts: Katy Independent School District and Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District. Zoning assigns homes to specific elementary, middle, and high school feeder patterns within these districts. Notable private and charter school options are also located nearby.
Key Amenities, Parks, or Attractions: Residents frequently use facilities like Mary Jo Peckham Park for fishing and trails, and the extensive sports fields at Katy Park. Key retail and dining hubs include Katy Mills Mall and LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch. Proximity to major medical centers like Houston Methodist West Hospital and Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital is a significant benefit.
HOA/MUD/Deed Restrictions Context: Most neighborhoods within 77449 are governed by a Homeowners Association (HOA) with corresponding annual fees and deed restrictions that regulate property maintenance and use. Additionally, many areas are served by a Municipal Utility District (MUD) which finances and manages water and sewer infrastructure, funded through property taxes.
"Best For" Descriptor: Suited for individuals and households seeking a suburban lifestyle with access to well-regarded public schools, modern housing, and a strong sense of community, while requiring a commute to Houston's primary employment centers.
Typical Housing Stock and Era: The area largely consists of single-family brick homes built from the 1990s to the present day, with a significant amount of new construction still occurring in developing subdivisions.

The 77449 ZIP code, situated in the heart of the fast-growing Greater Katy area, represents a blend of planned suburban living and the open legacy of the historic Katy Prairie. Located approximately 28 miles west of Downtown Houston, its character is defined by a landscape of established subdivisions, new construction, and the major transportation arteries of Interstate 10 and the Grand Parkway (SH 99). This area has evolved from its agricultural roots into a bustling residential hub, driven by the expansion of the Houston metropolitan area and the presence of top-tier public school systems. Its location provides a crucial balance for residents who work in Houston’s core but prefer a community-oriented, suburban environment.

Prospective residents considering 77449 will find a market dominated by single-family homes governed by HOAs and, in many cases, MUDs. The lifestyle is oriented around community amenities such as local parks, pools, and school-based activities. Commute patterns are a primary consideration; while access to the Energy Corridor is relatively direct, trips to Downtown or the Texas Medical Center require significant time in traffic. Property types range from modest starter homes to larger, more customized residences, offering a variety of options for different needs. Understanding the specific tax jurisdictions and HOA regulations for each subdivision is a key part of the home buying process here.

Overview of 77449

Geographically, the 77449 ZIP code covers a significant portion of unincorporated Harris County, with a "Katy" mailing address. It is situated north of Interstate 10, extending from areas just west of Addicks Reservoir eastward. Its boundaries are shared with adjacent ZIP codes like 77493 to the west, 77084 to the east, and 77433 to the north. The area is a key part of the "Greater Katy" region, which, while not a formal municipal designation, describes the sprawling suburban landscape served largely by the Katy Independent School District. The terrain is characteristically flat, reflecting its history as part of the Katy Prairie, a vast coastal grassland. Development patterns have been heavily influenced by the creation of master-planned communities, which began to proliferate in the latter part of the 20th century. These communities, such as Canyon Lakes West and parts of Elyson, are interspersed with smaller, distinct neighborhood pockets like Westgate and Yaupon Ranch, each with its own character and development era. This has resulted in a landscape where newer developments with modern amenities sit alongside more established neighborhoods, offering a diverse range of housing styles and community feels. The area's growth was catalyzed by the expansion of Houston's Energy Corridor, making it a popular residential choice for employees in the oil and gas sector.

Living in 77449

Daily life in 77449 is shaped by its suburban structure. Residents have access to a wealth of parks and green spaces for recreation. Mary Jo Peckham Park offers a fishing lake, walking trails, and a community center, while the larger Katy Park is a hub for youth and adult sports with numerous baseball and soccer fields. The local trail systems, such as the Mason Creek South Hike & Bike Trail, provide additional opportunities for outdoor activity. Shopping and dining needs are well-served by a mix of large retail centers and local establishments. Major hubs like Katy Mills and LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch provide extensive retail, dining, and entertainment options. Daily conveniences are met by a high concentration of grocery stores like H-E-B, Kroger, and Aldi. For healthcare, the area is exceptionally well-covered with major hospitals like Houston Methodist West Hospital and Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital located minutes away, complemented by a vast network of clinics and private practices. The community atmosphere is active and engaged, often centered around school district events, youth sports leagues, and neighborhood HOA activities. This creates a connected and vibrant environment for residents.

Why Choose 77449

One of the primary draws of 77449 is the high quality of its public schools, with homes zoned to either the acclaimed Katy ISD or Cypress-Fairbanks ISD. This factor alone makes the area a top choice for many. Beyond education, the ZIP code offers significant value through its proximity to major employment centers. Located along the I-10 corridor, it provides a manageable commute to the Energy Corridor, one of Houston's largest business districts. The presence of the Grand Parkway (SH 99) further enhances connectivity, offering a direct route to other major employment areas like The Woodlands and Sugar Land. The quality of life is another key selling point. The area boasts a wide variety of housing, from affordable starter homes to more spacious residences, often within well-maintained, amenity-rich communities. The abundance of parks, recreational facilities, and retail options ensures that residents have everything they need close to home. This combination of strong schools, strategic location, and high-quality suburban amenities makes 77449 a compelling choice for long-term livability and a sound real estate investment.

77449 Home Tax Rate

Understanding property taxes in 77449 is essential for prospective homeowners. Your total tax rate is a sum of rates from several different government entities, and the exact combination depends on your home's specific location. The primary taxing authorities for nearly every home in the ZIP code are Harris County and either Katy ISD or Cypress-Fairbanks ISD. If your property falls within the City of Houston's jurisdiction, that will be an additional component, though much of 77449 is unincorporated. A crucial and variable component is the Municipal Utility District (MUD) tax. MUDs are common in the area and are used to fund infrastructure like water and sewer systems for subdivisions. MUD rates can vary widely, for example, Harris County MUD No. 61 has a tax rate of $0.29 per $100 of valuation, while other MUDs can be higher. To calculate an estimated annual tax bill, you would sum the rates of all applicable jurisdictions and multiply that total rate by the assessed value of your home. For example, using approximate 2025 rates: Harris County ($0.38529), Houston ISD ($0.86830), and a sample MUD rate ($0.45), the combined rate would be approximately $1.70359 per $100 of home value. Homeowners can reduce their tax burden by applying for exemptions, most notably the Homestead Exemption. It is critical to verify the exact taxing jurisdictions and current rates for any specific property by visiting the Harris County Appraisal District (HCAD) website.

Best 77449 Realtor

Who is the best realtor to sell my home in 77449?

The best realtor to sell your home in 77449 is Paige Martin with the Houston Properties Team. Recognized as Houston's #1 rated real estate team, Paige Martin offers unparalleled expertise and a proven track record of success specifically within the complex and competitive 77449 market. Her team provides data-driven strategies and a comprehensive marketing approach designed to secure the highest possible sales price for your property. For a personalized consultation, contact Paige directly at 713.425.4194 or email her at [email protected].

What makes 77449 real estate agents different?

A top real estate agent in 77449 must possess deep, localized knowledge beyond general market trends. The 77449 ZIP code is a patchwork of dozens of subdivisions, each with its own school zoning, MUD tax structure, HOA rules, and price-per-square-foot velocity. The Houston Properties Team excels by maintaining detailed analytics on these micro-markets, from the turnover rates in master-planned communities like Elyson to the specific buyer profiles attracted to established neighborhoods. This granular expertise allows them to position homes more effectively than agents with a broader, less focused approach, making them the best choice to sell my home in 77449.

Why choose Houston Properties Team for 77449 home sales?

Choosing the Houston Properties Team to sell your 77449 home means partnering with a group that has earned significant, third-party validation for its performance and client satisfaction. Their numerous accolades are a direct result of a client-centric approach and superior market intelligence.

"#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 demonstrated through clear, measurable results that directly benefit sellers in 77449. Their industry-leading metrics showcase a commitment to maximizing client returns and ensuring a seamless, compliant, and efficient sales process.

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 sellers looking for the top real estate agent in 77449, the Houston Properties Team offers a distinct advantage. Their combination of hyper-local expertise, validated performance, and a robust, data-driven marketing strategy ensures your home is positioned for maximum success. To learn more about their approach or to begin the home valuation process, contact Paige Martin at 713.425.4194 or [email protected].

More Details

Detailed Market Analysis and Investment Trends within 77449

The 77449 real estate market is characterized by high transaction volume and steady demand, largely driven by the quality of its public schools and its relative affordability compared to neighborhoods closer to Houston's urban core. Investment trends in the area are closely tied to new construction and the expansion of master-planned communities. The area continues to attract developers, indicating confidence in long-term growth. For homeowners, this translates into healthy appreciation potential, although the market can be sensitive to fluctuations in the oil and gas industry due to its connection to the Energy Corridor workforce. The rental market is also robust, fueled by individuals and households transitioning to the area. A key factor for any investment analysis in 77449 is the MUD tax liability; properties in newer developments may have higher MUD taxes to pay off infrastructure bonds, which can impact overall holding costs and resale appeal. For those considering a 1031 exchange, the area offers a stable inventory of single-family rental properties.

Complete Amenities and Recreation Guide

The 77449 area is rich with amenities and recreational opportunities. Beyond the well-known Katy Park and Mary Jo Peckham Park, the region is dotted with numerous neighborhood pocket parks and greenbelts. The trail systems are extensive, with corridors like the Mason Creek Hike & Bike Trail providing miles of paved paths for outdoor enthusiasts. Community centers, often managed by HOAs, are central to neighborhood life, typically offering swimming pools, tennis courts, and playgrounds. For indoor recreation, numerous fitness centers and specialty gyms are available. The area is also close to several golf courses. Retail and dining are heavily concentrated along major thoroughfares like Mason Road and Fry Road, offering everything from national chains to local eateries. For entertainment, the Katy Mills shopping complex includes a cinema, and the nearby LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch hosts community events and outdoor concerts.

School District Information and Private/Charter Options near 77449

The 77449 ZIP code is uniquely positioned, being served by both Katy Independent School District (Katy ISD) and Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District (CFISD), two of the largest and most highly-rated districts in the Houston area. A home’s specific location determines its zoning. Within CFISD, many 77449 students are zoned to a pattern that may include elementary schools like Emery or Brosnahan, feeding into Thornton Middle School, and then Cypress Lakes High School or Cypress Springs High School. Within Katy ISD, students might attend schools like Morton Ranch Elementary, Cardiff Junior High, and Morton Ranch High School. Both districts are known for strong academic programs and extensive extracurricular activities. In addition to the public school systems, the area is served by a number of private and charter schools, including the British International School of Houston and Aristoi Classical Academy, providing alternative educational philosophies and programs.

Transportation and Commuting Details

Transportation in 77449 is heavily car-dependent, with I-10 (Katy Freeway) and the Grand Parkway (SH 99) serving as the primary arteries. The Katy Freeway features managed toll lanes (Katy Tollway) that can significantly reduce commute times to the Energy Corridor and Downtown Houston during peak hours. The Grand Parkway provides crucial north-south connectivity, linking the Katy area with other major suburbs like The Woodlands and Sugar Land. For those seeking public transit, METRO provides Park & Ride services. The Grand Parkway Park & Ride, located at 1030 North Grand Parkway, is situated directly within the 77449 ZIP code and offers express bus service to Downtown Houston. This service is a popular option for weekday commuters looking to avoid the stress and cost of driving and parking downtown. Other nearby options include the Addicks Park & Ride.

Neighborhood Governance and Restrictions

Prospective buyers in 77449 should be aware of the prevalence of Homeowners Associations (HOAs) and Municipal Utility Districts (MUDs). Nearly all subdivisions have an HOA that enforces deed restrictions, which govern aspects of property ownership such as lawn maintenance, exterior modifications, and parking rules. These organizations are funded by mandatory annual fees. MUDs are quasi-governmental entities created to provide water, sewer, and sometimes other services (like trash collection) to communities outside of municipal city limits. They finance the construction of this infrastructure by issuing bonds, which are repaid over time through property taxes levied on homes within the district. While the MUD tax rate typically decreases as the bonds are paid off, it represents a significant portion of a homeowner's annual tax bill. Before purchasing, it is crucial to review the HOA's bylaws and financial health, as well as the MUD's tax rate and debt obligations. This is an important part of the home buying process.

Historical Development and Common Architectural Styles in 77449

The history of the 77449 area is tied to the transformation of the vast Katy Prairie. Originally hunting grounds for Native American tribes and later used for cattle ranching, the area's first major shift came with the arrival of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas (MKT) Railroad in the late 1890s, which gave the town of Katy its name. For much of the 20th century, the region was dominated by rice farming and gas production. The expansion of Houston westward, accelerated by the construction of I-10, began the area's transition into a major suburban center. The development boom from the 1980s onward established the character of 77449. The predominant architectural style is the modern suburban home, typically featuring brick exteriors with two-story traditional designs. Homes built in the late 20th century often feature distinct formal living and dining areas, while more recent construction emphasizes open-concept floor plans with large kitchens and living spaces.

Environmental Considerations and Risks

Given its location on the flat coastal plain of Texas, drainage and flooding are significant environmental considerations for the 77449 area. The region is interlaced with a network of creeks, bayous, and man-made drainage channels that are part of the larger Addicks Reservoir watershed. During periods of intense rainfall, street ponding and overflowing channels can occur. Portions of the 77449 ZIP code lie within the 100-year and 500-year floodplains as designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Prospective buyers should consult the Harris County Flood Education Mapping Tool to determine the flood risk for a specific property. Development regulations in Harris County are stringent for construction within the floodplain, often requiring elevated foundations. Purchasing flood insurance is highly recommended for all homeowners in the region, regardless of their official floodplain designation, as heavy rainfall events can cause flooding outside of mapped high-risk zones.

Local Landmarks and Boundary Notes

The 77449 ZIP code is situated entirely within Harris County and is bordered by several other key suburban ZIP codes, including 77084 to the east, 77493 to the west (primarily within the City of Katy), and 77433 to the north in the Cypress area. It does not fall within one of Houston's officially designated "Super Neighborhoods" but is adjacent to the Addicks / Park Ten super-neighborhood. The area is more accurately defined as being part of the Greater Katy region, a colloquial term for the large suburban expanse served by Katy ISD. While there are few traditional historic landmarks within the ZIP code itself due to its modern development, the nearby historic downtown Katy offers a glimpse into the area's railroad and farming past. Key modern landmarks for residents are the major community hubs, including the expansive campuses of the area's high schools, major hospitals, and large retail centers.

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

The 77449 ZIP code contains a diverse array of subdivisions, each platted at different times and with distinct characteristics. Notable pockets include large master-planned communities like Canyon Lakes West and parts of Elyson, which feature newer homes with extensive community amenities. Mid-sized subdivisions from the 1990s and 2000s, such as Yaupon Ranch, Westgate, and Williamsburg, form the backbone of the area, offering well-established neighborhoods. Newer, smaller enclaves continue to be developed on remaining parcels of land. The layout of the area is heavily influenced by the "collector" road system (such as Mason Road and Fry Road) that connects the various subdivisions to the main transportation arteries of I-10 and the Grand Parkway. When evaluating properties, understanding the specific plat and section of a subdivision is important, as it can determine the age of the home, the specific MUD jurisdiction, and the applicable HOA rules.

For a personalized consultation about your real estate needs in 77449, connect with the Houston Properties Team at 713.425.4194 or [email protected].

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 77449 prone to flooding?

Portions of the 77449 zip code have experienced high water events, particularly in areas near Cypress Creek and its tributaries. It is advisable to check specific property elevation and flood zone maps.

What are the prominent school districts serving 77449?

The 77449 zip code is served primarily by Cy-Fair Independent School District and Katy Independent School District. Students attend schools within these systems.

How is the commute from 77449 to downtown Houston?

Commute times from 77449 to downtown Houston can vary considerably depending on traffic conditions and time of day. Major thoroughfares include Interstate 10 and US-290.

What retail and dining options are available in 77449?

The 77449 area offers numerous retail centers, grocery stores, and a selection of dining establishments along major roads such as FM 529 and Fry Road.

Is new construction common in 77449?

The 77449 zip code has seen sustained development, with new construction present in various subdivisions and communities. Land availability continues to support additional building.

What are the general property tax rates in 77449?

Property tax rates in 77449 are determined by various taxing entities, including school districts, counties, and municipal utility districts. These rates can vary by specific location within the zip code.