Harvest Green Community Guide (Richmond TX): Prices, Builders, Amenities & What to Expect

By Taco Street Houston

Harvest Green in Richmond, TX, is a master-planned community designed around a working farm and a focus on sustainability. Located near Grand Parkway (99), it offers convenient access to Houston while providing a peaceful, farm-inspired lifestyle. Homes range from $460,000 to over $1.3 million, with builders like David Weekley, Perry, and Newmark offering modern designs on various lot sizes. The community features top-rated Fort Bend ISD schools, a 20-mile trail system, lakes, and a 12-acre Village Farm with fresh produce, garden plots, and weekly farmers markets. HOA fees start at $1,210 annually, with MUD taxes between 2.6889% and 2.8589%. While the farm-centric lifestyle and amenities appeal to eco-conscious families, ongoing development and higher taxes may be considerations.

Location and Commute

Harvest Green is nestled in Richmond, Texas, right off the Grand Parkway (Highway 99), with the nearest on-ramp sitting just under 2 miles from the heart of the community. This makes it incredibly easy to connect to major thoroughfares. The Westpark Tollway is only about seven minutes away, while Interstate 69 lies less than 10 miles to the south, offering another straightforward route into Houston.

"99 is very convenient" – Pinky Pirani, owner and team leader with the B&P Team at Keller Williams Southwest

The location offers a rare mix – residents can enjoy the perks of living near major employment centers while embracing a peaceful, farm-inspired lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Its positioning makes commuting to key areas in Houston both manageable and convenient.

Commute Times to Major Areas

Downtown Houston is roughly 30 miles east of Harvest Green, with the Westpark Tollway serving as the primary route. While actual commute times can vary, the community’s proximity to major highways ensures that many workplaces and city amenities are just a drive away. Beyond work, the area offers easy access to shopping, dining, and recreational attractions.

Nearby Shopping and Dining

Harvest Green residents enjoy exceptional shopping and dining options right at their doorstep. A new Costco has recently joined the area, alongside an H-E-B, Target, and a variety of restaurants located just two to three minutes away. Local expert Pinky Pirani highlights the abundance of retail and dining options in the vicinity. Additionally, popular destinations like Sugar Land’s Whole Foods Market, First Colony Mall, and LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch are all easily reachable via Highway 99.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the community’s location also provides access to nearby parks, such as the 164-acre Seabourne Creek Park in Rosenberg and Brazos Bend State Park. These amenities enhance the lifestyle Harvest Green offers, combining convenience with opportunities for recreation and relaxation.

Builders and Homes

Harvest Green features a curated selection of builders known for their craftsmanship and modern designs. The community offers a variety of lot sizes, ranging from 40 to 90 feet, making it possible to accommodate homes of different sizes and price ranges.

Builders by Price Tier

New homes in Harvest Green are priced from the $460,000s to over $1.3 million. David Weekley Homes starts at the $460,000s, offering homes on 45-foot lots with floor plans between 1,711 and 2,700 square feet. Perry Homes begins at the $490,000s, also on 45-foot lots, with designs ranging from 1,600 to 2,600 square feet. Newmark Homes provides homes starting in the $490,000s on 50-foot lots, with floor plans spanning 1,926 to 2,989 square feet. For larger homes, Westin Homes offers options on 60-foot lots starting in the $700,000s, with layouts ranging from 3,427 to 3,800 square feet. Other builders, including Highland Homes, Chesmar Homes, and Meritage Homes, contribute to the community’s variety with distinct architectural styles and finishes. This wide range of options ensures that buyers can find homes tailored to their preferences, whether they prioritize size, style, or specific features.

Home Sizes and Features

Harvest Green homes come in both single-story and two-story designs, with sizes ranging from approximately 1,600 to over 6,000 square feet. These homes cater to everyone, from young professionals to growing families. The architectural style incorporates modern elements with Craftsman-inspired touches, often featuring stone or brick exteriors that align with the community’s farm-focused and nature-centric vibe.

The community’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its LEED Gold certification, showcasing its dedication to eco-friendly building practices. Premium lot options, including lakefront and greenbelt locations, offer scenic views and easy access to the community’s extensive trail system. Inside, homes emphasize open-concept layouts with features like large kitchen islands, flexible spaces for studies or game rooms, and 2- to 3-car garages. These designs seamlessly blend modern conveniences with the community’s farm-inspired aesthetic.

Pricing and Value Comparison

Home prices in Harvest Green start in the $460,000s and can exceed $1.3 million for premium lots. The community offers competitive pricing compared to luxury developments like Aliana and provides similar value to neighborhoods such as Veranda. With access to highly rated Fort Bend ISD schools and unique farm-centered amenities, pricing varies depending on the builder, lot size, location, and customization options. This balance of quality, amenities, and affordability makes Harvest Green stand out among nearby master-planned communities.

Amenities and Lifestyle

At the center of Harvest Green is the Village Farm, a 12-acre USDA Certified Organic working farm that serves as a fully operational production hub. This farm grows fresh produce that’s sold to Houston-area restaurants, at the on-site Farmers Market, and through special resident programs. It’s an impressive space featuring fields, greenhouses, resident garden plots, goats, chickens, a vineyard, a bee colony, and outdoor classrooms.

The Village Farm

The Village Farm offers residents plenty of ways to get involved. For $21 a week, the Veggie Share Program delivers fresh, seasonal organic produce. If you’re feeling hands-on, the Farm Club lets residents rent their own growing plots – four raised beds, each 15 feet long – for $50 a month. This includes seeds, tools, and expert tips from farm educators. Every Saturday morning, the Weekly Farmers Market brings the community together with fresh produce, local honey, baked goods, and live music. Plus, residents can enjoy edible landscaping throughout the community, featuring herbs, fruits, and flowers at no extra cost.

But the lifestyle at Harvest Green doesn’t stop at the farm. The community’s recreational amenities and vibrant events make it a place where farm life meets modern living.

Recreation and Fitness

Harvest Green blends its farm-focused charm with top-notch recreational facilities. The Farmhouse serves as a hub for activity, offering a pool with a splash pad, a gym, and a fitness studio. Beyond that, the community boasts over 130 acres of lakes and waterways, 470 acres of greenbelts and open space, and a 20-mile trail system perfect for walking or biking. At Harvest Yard, you’ll find two tennis courts (easily reservable through the Harvest Green Life app), a sand volleyball court, and a playground. For even more outdoor fun, there are three additional playgrounds, pocket parks, a dog park, and fishing docks. And there’s more to come – a second pool complex is in the works.

Community Events

Harvest Green’s sense of community shines through its packed calendar of events. Nicole Hayes, the Lifestyle Director, organizes more than 75 events each year. These include everything from farm tours and youth cooking classes to wine dinners, food truck nights, dive-in movies, and festive holiday celebrations. Recent highlights have included Winter Toddler Zumbini, Kids Coding Class, yoga sessions, and even massage workshops.

"I love helping residents fully embrace their community and get to know their neighbors", says Nicole Hayes, Lifestyle Director.

Residents also rave about the tight-knit atmosphere. Stacey Williams shared:

"We met more of our neighbors here before our house was even finished being built than we did living three years in our previous neighborhood!"

These events and amenities make Harvest Green more than just a neighborhood – it’s a place where community and sustainable living come together seamlessly.

Schools Serving Harvest Green

For families considering Harvest Green, one of the standout features is its location within the Fort Bend Independent School District (FBISD), the eighth-largest school district in Texas. The community is home to three schools within its boundaries, making morning drop-offs and pick-ups a breeze. Here’s a closer look at these schools and why they’re a significant draw for residents.

James C. Neill Elementary, located at 3830 Harvest Corner Drive in northern Harvest Green, serves Pre-K through 5th grade students. The school has earned an A-minus rating from Niche and a 7 out of 10 from GreatSchools. Beyond academics, it’s known for fostering strong ties with the local community.

For middle schoolers in grades 6–8, James Bowie Middle School is situated at the southern edge of the community. It boasts an impressive A rating and an 8 on GreatSchools. High school students in grades 9–12 attend William B. Travis High School, located in northern Harvest Green. This school also shines with an A rating and a 7 on GreatSchools. Both schools are highly regarded within FBISD and are a key reason families are drawn to the area.

Looking toward the future, Harvest Green is set to welcome a fourth school – Elementary No. 55 – in August 2026. This new addition will provide even more educational opportunities for the growing number of families in the community. The convenience of having multiple FBISD schools within walking or biking distance is a unique benefit that sets Harvest Green apart from other master-planned communities in Fort Bend County.

HOA Fees, Taxes, and Cost of Living

Living in Harvest Green comes with annual HOA fees of $1,210, with an additional $932 for those in gated neighborhoods. These fees cover a range of amenities, including a resort-style pool, fitness center, the 12-acre Village Farm, farmers markets, trails, and upkeep of 230 acres of lakes and waterways.

MUD taxes also play a big role in annual expenses. Harvest Green’s MUD tax rates range from 0.87% to 1.45% per $100 of assessed value, which reflects the community’s premium infrastructure and amenities. For a home valued at $500,000, this means annual taxes of approximately $4,350 to $7,250. When combined with Fort Bend County and FBISD taxes, the total property tax rate falls between 2.6889% and 2.8589%. By comparison, other Fort Bend MUDs show a wide range of rates, from 0.315% (MUD 149) to 1.17% (MUD 24). Harvest Green’s rates land on the moderate-to-higher side, reflecting the quality amenities and newer infrastructure of this master-planned community.

In addition, Harvest Green requires one-time foundation fees of 0.25% to 1.00% at closing and resale. These fees help fund long-term community projects. While these upfront and ongoing costs are typical for a premium community, Harvest Green offers first-rate amenities without the ultra-luxury price tag seen in neighborhoods like the most exclusive sections of Aliana.

For families who value features like walkable schools, a working farm, and a strong sense of community, Harvest Green provides excellent amenities at a competitive price point. Next, we’ll dive into the pros and cons of living in Harvest Green.

Pros and Cons

Harvest Green offers a unique blend of modern living and an eco-friendly, farm-to-table lifestyle. At the heart of this community is its agrihood concept, which includes a 12-acre working Village Farm, a weekly farmers market, and seasonal farm-to-table events. This setup is perfect for families who prioritize healthy, sustainable living. Beyond its agricultural appeal, Harvest Green boasts resort-style amenities like a pool, fitness center, over 20 miles of walking trails, and 130 acres of lakes and waterways. The community is also served by top-rated Fort Bend ISD schools, adding to its family-friendly appeal. Its accolades, including being named Master Planned Community of the Year (2018) and Best Community in Texas (2021), further highlight its charm.

That said, there are some challenges to consider. Ongoing construction and the planned expansion of 630 acres with 1,400 new homes may lead to noise, increased traffic, and occasional disruptions. Additionally, MUD taxes in Harvest Green range from 0.87% to 1.45%, which is higher than in some other Fort Bend communities. Safety concerns have also been raised due to the community’s proximity to certain neighboring areas. Lastly, while the farm-centric design is a defining feature, it might not resonate with buyers looking for ultra-luxury finishes. These factors contribute to what makes Harvest Green both distinctive and a topic for careful consideration among Fort Bend’s master-planned communities.

Comparison Table

Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons:

Pros	Cons
Agrihood lifestyle with a 12-acre Village Farm and weekly farmers market	Ongoing construction and expansion with 1,400 new homes planned
Resort-style amenities: pool, fitness center, 20+ miles of trails, and 130 acres of lakes	Higher MUD taxes (0.87%–1.45%) compared to other Fort Bend communities
Recognized as Master Planned Community of the Year (2018) and Best Community in Texas (2021)	Safety concerns due to proximity to some neighboring areas
Active community with over 75 resident events annually	Farm-centric design may not appeal to those seeking ultra-luxury finishes
Easy access to Grand Parkway (99) and Westpark Tollway	Less focus on luxury compared to other high-end communities

Harvest Green’s eco-conscious design and wide range of amenities make it an attractive option for families and modern buyers. However, potential residents should weigh these benefits against the inconveniences of ongoing development and higher taxes.

Is Harvest Green Right for You?

Harvest Green, Houston’s first community centered around farming, offers a lifestyle that revolves around fresh food, outdoor activities, and building real connections with neighbors. Imagine picking up fresh vegetables at a weekly farmers market, letting your kids enjoy farm tours, or receiving regular produce through a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program – all made possible by the 12-acre Village Farm that’s central to life here.

Families also benefit from access to highly-rated Fort Bend ISD schools and a packed calendar of over 75 annual events managed by a full-time Lifestyle Director. For those who love the outdoors, the community boasts a 20-mile trail system connecting 130 acres of lakes and waterways.

Beyond its farm-focused lifestyle, Harvest Green offers resort-style amenities and modern home designs. In fact, it was named "Best Overall Community in Texas" in 2021. Home prices are competitive with other master-planned communities in Fort Bend, such as Aliana, Sienna, and Veranda, making it attractive to buyers who prioritize lifestyle features over traditional luxury.

That said, its focus on farming and community involvement might not appeal to those looking for a more conventional luxury neighborhood or a quieter, less interactive setting.

Harvest Green is a great fit for eco-conscious families, active professionals, and those relocating who value sustainability, top-notch schools, and a close-knit community. With modern homes surrounded by nature and easy access to Grand Parkway (99), it offers a unique balance of convenience and connection.

FAQs

What sets Harvest Green’s farm-focused lifestyle apart from other communities?

Harvest Green has earned its place as Houston’s first agrihood, a neighborhood built around a working farm that emphasizes sustainable living. Here, residents benefit from access to community gardens, fresh produce, and special farm-to-table events, offering a lifestyle that seamlessly combines modern comforts with a strong connection to nature.

This unique concept promotes a tight-knit, environmentally conscious community. Families can get hands-on with seasonal crops, take gardening classes, and visit farmers markets – all while enjoying resort-style amenities and access to highly rated schools. It’s the perfect neighborhood for anyone looking to blend the conveniences of modern life with the tranquility of natural surroundings.

How do HOA fees and MUD taxes in Harvest Green compare to other Fort Bend County communities?

HOA fees in Harvest Green are about $1,210 per year, with extra charges for homes in gated sections. This pricing falls in the mid-range for a master-planned community that offers high-quality amenities.

When it comes to MUD (Municipal Utility District) taxes, rates in Harvest Green differ slightly by district but usually fall between 2.7389% and 2.8589% of the home’s assessed value. These rates are fairly standard for newer neighborhoods in Fort Bend County and are used to cover infrastructure and utility costs.

In comparison to other master-planned communities in the area, Harvest Green remains competitively priced, especially when you consider its distinctive amenities and focus on lifestyle.

What recreational activities and community events can residents enjoy at Harvest Green?

Residents of Harvest Green have plenty of opportunities to connect and unwind with a variety of activities and events that bring people together. From cooking demonstrations and yoga classes to craft days and happy hours, there’s always something happening to keep things lively. The community also organizes bigger events like movie nights, farmers markets, and seasonal festivals, creating the perfect setting for neighbors to mingle and celebrate.

At the heart of it all is the Farmhouse recreation center, a vibrant hub equipped with a resort-style pool, fitness center, playground, and an event hall for hosting gatherings. Whether you’re looking to stay fit, make new friends, or enjoy family-friendly fun, Harvest Green has something that fits the bill.