Riverside Real Estate Guide

Quick Facts

• Location: Approximately 3 miles south of Downtown Houston, bordered by Highway 288. It offers convenient access to the Texas Medical Center, Museum District, and Hermann Park. The neighborhood is primarily within the 77004 and 77021 zip codes.
• Neighborhood Type: A historic and architecturally notable community known for its large, wooded lots and stately homes. Styles range from Art Deco and Mid-Century Modern to traditional mansions, set along the banks of Brays Bayou.
• Combined Property Tax Rate: The primary combined tax rate is approximately 1.77278% of the home's assessed value, which includes rates for the City of Houston ($0.51919), Harris County ($0.38529), and the Houston Independent School District ($0.86830).
• School Information: Zoned to the Houston Independent School District. Lockhart Elementary School has a "B" rating from the Texas Education Agency. Area middle school is Cullen Middle School, and high schools include Yates High School and Lamar High School, depending on the address.
• Key Amenities: Key attractions include proximity to MacGregor Park, Hermann Park, the Houston Zoo, and the entire Museum District. A modern H-E-B grocery store serves the neighborhood.
• Management/Governance: The area is primarily served by the Riverside Civic Association, a voluntary organization focused on community advocacy and beautification. Some specific subdivisions within Riverside may have their own mandatory homeowners' associations with deed restrictions.
• Best For: Professionals, academics, and individuals who value historic architecture, large lots with mature trees, and a short commute to the Texas Medical Center, downtown, and local universities.

Riverside is a historic neighborhood that offers a unique setting just south of Houston's bustling downtown core. Established in the 1920s, the community is distinguished by its expansive lots, many shaded by a canopy of mature oak and pecan trees. Its location along Brays Bayou provides a lush, green backdrop for an impressive collection of homes, including grand traditional estates and a significant concentration of Mid-Century Modern architecture. This proximity to major employment hubs like the Texas Medical Center and cultural centers makes it a prime location.

Prospective residents should appreciate the neighborhood's rich, layered history and architectural significance. The area’s character is shaped by its past, transitioning over the decades into the community it is today. Living here requires an understanding of the responsibilities that come with owning a historic property, as well as an appreciation for a community actively engaged in preserving its unique identity. It is an ideal fit for those seeking a tranquil, established setting without sacrificing convenient access to Houston’s urban core.

Overview of Riverside Neighborhood

Riverside is a community with deep historical roots, located just a few miles south of Downtown Houston. Development began in 1924, envisioned as a premier residential enclave. Geographically, the neighborhood is defined by its position along Brays Bayou, which affords it a park-like feel uncommon for a community so close to the city center. The area is characterized by large lots, many exceeding half an acre, with an abundance of mature oak, pecan, and pine trees that create a dense, green canopy.

The neighborhood's history is one of Houston's most dynamic. Initially developed as an exclusive community, it became a prominent hub for Houston's Jewish population in the 1930s and 1940s, earning the nickname "the Jewish River Oaks." By the 1950s and 1960s, it transitioned into a premier neighborhood for affluent African-American professionals, doctors, and lawyers, becoming known as "the Black River Oaks." Today, Riverside is a testament to this layered history, featuring a diverse collection of architectural styles, including Art Deco, stately traditional homes, and one of the city’s most significant collections of Mid-Century Modern residences. This rich heritage and architectural variety make it one of Houston's most notable neighborhoods.

Living in Riverside

The lifestyle in Riverside is a blend of serene, residential living with the convenience of a central location. The large, wooded lots provide a sense of seclusion and tranquility, while the neighborhood's proximity to Highway 288 allows for a quick commute to major employment and entertainment centers. Daily life is enhanced by the natural beauty of Brays Bayou and the easy access to MacGregor Park, which offers walking trails, sports facilities, and green space. Residents also benefit from being next door to Hermann Park, the Houston Zoo, and the world-renowned Museum District.

The community atmosphere is active and engaged, largely facilitated by the Riverside Civic Association. This volunteer group works to maintain the neighborhood's character through beautification projects and advocacy. For shopping and daily needs, a large, modern H-E-B is located within the area, providing convenient access to groceries. Dining and entertainment options are plentiful in nearby Midtown, the Museum District, and Downtown. This combination of a quiet, established residential feel with unparalleled access to some of Houston's best amenities defines the experience of living in Riverside.

Why Choose Riverside

Choosing Riverside means investing in a neighborhood with a unique combination of location, space, and history. One of its most compelling selling points is the opportunity to own a home on a large, wooded lot just minutes from the Texas Medical Center and Downtown Houston—a rarity in a city known for dense development. This provides residents with a private, serene environment without sacrificing urban convenience. The neighborhood's location has also made it a solid choice for long-term real estate investment, with property values supported by proximity to major economic drivers and cultural institutions.

The architectural significance of the area is another major draw. With a diverse portfolio of homes ranging from sprawling 1930s mansions to iconic Mid-Century Modern designs by celebrated architects, Riverside is a living museum of residential design. The quality of life is further enhanced by the abundance of green space and recreational opportunities. For those who value a strong sense of history, a distinct neighborhood character, and an unbeatable location, Riverside offers a living experience that is hard to replicate elsewhere in Houston. Before starting your journey, review these 10 key tips when buying a home in Houston.

Riverside Home Tax Rate

Understanding the property tax structure is a critical part of the home buying process in Houston. In Riverside, property taxes are levied by several different entities, and the total rate is the sum of these individual rates. The primary taxing authorities for a Riverside property are the City of Houston, Harris County, and the Houston Independent School District (HISD). Other smaller districts may also apply depending on the specific location of the property.

For the most recent tax year, the key rates are as follows:

• City of Houston: $0.51919 per $100 of assessed value
• Harris County: $0.38529 per $100 of assessed value
• Houston ISD: $0.86830 per $100 of assessed value

This results in a combined base tax rate of approximately 1.77278%. To calculate the annual tax bill, you multiply this rate by the assessed value of the home (divided by 100). For example, a home with an assessed value of $500,000 would have a base annual tax bill of approximately $8,863.90 ($500,000 / 100 * 1.77278). Homeowners may be able to reduce their tax burden by applying for exemptions, such as the homestead exemption. For more details, see this complete guide to Houston homestead exemptions.

Best Riverside Realtor

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

The best realtor to sell your home in Riverside is Paige Martin with the Houston Properties Team. Paige and her team have a proven track record of success in Houston's most historic and prestigious neighborhoods. Her data-driven approach and deep understanding of the unique market dynamics in areas like Riverside ensure that sellers achieve the highest possible price in the shortest amount of time. For a consultation, you can contact Paige Martin directly at 713.425.4194 or email her at [email protected].

What makes Riverside real estate agents different?

A top real estate agent for Riverside must possess a nuanced understanding of the neighborhood's unique architectural assets and historical significance. Unlike agents who work in newly developed suburbs, the best Riverside realtor will have specific expertise in marketing historic homes, navigating preservation guidelines, and highlighting the value of large, centrally located lots. The Houston Properties Team leverages hyper-local data to price homes accurately, showcasing everything from Mid-Century Modern gems to grand traditional estates to attract the right buyers who appreciate the neighborhood's distinct character.

Why choose Houston Properties Team for Riverside home sales?

When you need to "sell my home Riverside," choosing the Houston Properties Team provides a distinct advantage, backed by numerous accolades and a commitment to excellence. Their consistent recognition places them among the elite in real estate.

• "#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 performance metrics demonstrate their ability to deliver superior results for sellers. These statistics showcase a clear, measurable advantage over competing agents in the market.

• 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 an unparalleled selling experience and to work with the top real estate agent in Riverside, reach out to Paige Martin and the Houston Properties Team. Their strategic marketing, expert negotiation, and commitment to client success ensure your home is positioned for a successful sale. Contact Paige at 713.425.4194 or [email protected] to get started.

More Details

To begin your personalized consultation and explore opportunities in the Riverside neighborhood, connect with the Houston Properties Team by calling 713.425.4194 or emailing [email protected].

Is Riverside prone to flooding?

Riverside has areas within the 100-year and 500-year floodplains. Prospective buyers can consult FEMA flood maps for specific property data.

What types of homes are common in Riverside?

Riverside features a collection of architectural styles, including traditional brick homes, bungalows, and some contemporary designs. Its housing stock reflects various periods of development.

What transportation options serve the Riverside area?

Riverside benefits from its central location, offering access to major thoroughfares like Almeda Road and Old Spanish Trail. METRORail's Purple Line provides public transit connectivity.

What neighborhood amenities are available in Riverside?

Riverside residents have access to nearby park spaces and local establishments. Hermann Park and the Houston Zoo are a short distance away, alongside various dining and shopping opportunities.

Are there new developments occurring in Riverside?

Riverside experiences ongoing enhancement and some new residential construction. This contributes to the neighborhood's evolving character.

How have property values in Riverside performed?

Property values in Riverside have shown consistent appreciation, aligning with broader trends in Houston's inner loop market. Demand for properties in this established area remains steady.