Blue street signs line West University Place which, according to an analysis of data released by The Business Journal, has ranked No. 1 in a study of the best quality of life in the United States. With some 77 percent of working residents in management or professional jobs, and 25 percent self employed, this city is well located, providing immediate access to Downtown, the Museum District, Texas Medical Center, the Galleria and Uptown, Greenway Plaza, and most major freeways.
West University Place is well known for its fine police and fire departments, academically recognized elementary school, Little League, beautiful parks and recreational facilities, as well as its eclectic architectural styles. This small incorporated city was founded as a series of suburbs in the early 1900s. Residents petitioned the city of Houston in the early 1920s for annexation, but were initially denied. A 730-acre tract of land was incorporated between 1923 and 1924.
From inception, West University Place has prided itself with tough zoning and deed restrictions. Although the setback requirements were written in 1937, the City later adopted them into law. The laws protect the city from industrial and commercial development. In an era of rapid metropolitan growth, West University has emerged as an island of residential stability. Through the years, West University Place has worked hard to protect its residential image. In order to preserve the beauty and integrity of the neighborhood, current ordinances require that each lot contain a certain amount of open space. This prohibits large new construction homes or
remodeled homes from occupying the total yard.
An important addition to the City has been the Urban Forester who protects the neighborhood from losing too many of its cherished trees. As a result, West University Place has maintained its small town atmosphere. West University Place affords a variety of choices when it comes to price range and style of residence. Each block contains original bungalows, recently
remodeled homes, as well as an abundance of beautiful new and recent construction. Contemporary, Tudor, New Orleans, traditional Georgian, and French designed homes blend harmoniously into the neighborhood.
West University Place has emerged as one of Houston’s most desirable neighborhoods. Architectural diversity, price ranges, and proximity to major areas have improved housing values through the years. This small city within a city has captured the hearts of many. Time has proven that the demand for “West U” housing remains consistently high.
