Kingwood is a master-planned community and is one of Houston’s suburban jewels. Also known as The Livable Forest, this residential neighborhood is nestled among majestic trees that are protected by deed restrictions in an effort to maintain the area’s lavish natural beauty.
Established in 1970 and annexed by the city of Houston in 1994, residents in the community to this day take tremendous pride in their unique living environment and consider themselves Kingwoodians rather than Houstonians.
KINGWOOD RELOCATION GUIDE: COMMUNITY & ECONOMY
The Livable Forest consists of 25 subdivisions called “villages.” Each village features its own neighborhood pool, playground and community association. The Livable Forest features a dog park, a skate park, two golf courses, more than 20 religious institutions and several large nature preserves for residents’ enjoyment.
The residents and businesses of The Livable Forest are highly involved in all matters concerning their community. Residents often come together to help neighbors in need, including hosting fund-raising benefits for people affected by illness or disaster. People here also love their local sports teams and show enthusiastic support for Little League baseball and high school football alike.
The close-knit community of 60,000 residents is situated where the San Jacinto River meets Lake Houston, approximately 30 miles northeast of downtown Houston. The Livable Forest’s major employer is Insperity (formerly Administaff), one of the nation’s best-known human resources company. The area is home to young professionals and mid- to upper level executives, and many locals make the daily 35-minute commute to work in downtown Houston, heading south on U.S. Highway 59. The community prides itself on its small town feel, intentionally avoiding an invasion by “big business.”
The crime rate in the Livable Forest is extremely low, thanks to an onsite Houston Police Department division. Emergency services are highly efficient, with four Houston Fire Department stations placed strategically throughout the community.
KINGWOOD RELOCATION GUIDE: SHOPPING & ENTERTAINMENT
Upscale and casual restaurants dot the shores of Kings Harbor, a popular family-friendly dining spot that features live outdoor concerts every weekend during the summer. Here, locals enjoy seafood, ice cream, American or Mexican cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere on the patios overlooking Lake Houston, where jet-skiers and boaters come out to play. During hot summer months, little ones are encouraged to bring their swimsuits and splash among the in-ground water fountains.
Kingwood Town Center is a city block bustling with activity, featuring dining venues and small boutiques. Town Center hosts numerous festivals and car shows year-round as well as a farmer’s market every Thursday.
Shopping centers consisting of grocery chains as well as quaint, locally owned shops meet residents’ daily needs. The city of Humble and Deerbrook Mall lie approximately 10 minutes to the south.
No Kingwood Relocation Guide would be complete without mentioning the 75+ miles of interconnected greenbelt that wind through the area. Ideal for hiking, jogging and biking, or just leisurely walks with the family or pets, these paved trails represent a favorite pastime for local residents.
KINGWOOD RELOCATION GUIDE: ARTS AND EDUCATION
Featuring 14 excellent public schools, kindergarten through 12th grade, as well as numerous private schools, education ranks high on the list of priorities for residents of The Livable Forest. A community theater, charming art galleries and a public library further satisfy the area’s cultural cravings.
