Renting in The Heights & Washington Corridor: Houston’s Coolest Central Neighborhoods

The Heights and Washington Corridor are two of Houston’s most sought-after neighborhoods for renters. Both offer unique lifestyles, housing options, and amenities, but cater to different preferences:

  • The Heights: Known for its historic charm, tree-lined streets, and a mix of Victorian homes and modern apartments. It’s a quieter area with boutique shopping, local eateries, and a strong community feel. Average rent for one-bedroom apartments is $1,823, with options ranging from $850 to $2,700.
  • Washington Corridor/Rice Military: A modern, vibrant area with sleek townhomes, upscale apartments, and a buzzing nightlife scene. Proximity to Memorial and Buffalo Bayou Parks makes it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Average rent for one-bedroom apartments is $1,688.

Quick Comparison

Factor The Heights Washington Corridor / Rice Military
Average Rent $1,712 $1,688
Lifestyle Quiet, community-focused Energetic, social
Housing Style Historic & modern mix Modern apartments & townhomes
Key Amenities Boutique shops, local dining Nightlife, parks, modern conveniences
Best For Families, quiet professionals Young professionals, social renters

Choose The Heights for its historic charm and community vibe, or Washington Corridor for its modern energy and nightlife. Both neighborhoods offer excellent options for renters with different lifestyles.

1. The Heights

Housing Options

The Heights combines its historic charm with modern living, offering a variety of rental options. From converted Victorian-era bungalows and historic homes to sleek, industrial-style lofts with open layouts, there’s something for everyone.

At East Bend Apartments, studios start at $1,465, one-bedrooms at $1,775, and two-bedrooms at $2,250, with design themes like CONCRETE and HERRINGBONE.

Across the neighborhood, prices vary widely depending on the property style and amenities. One-bedroom apartments range from $850 to $2,700, with an average rent of $1,823. Two-bedroom units typically cost between $1,400 and $4,750, averaging $2,470. Studios often start at $1,284, while budget-friendly options like Pecan Villa offer one-bedroom apartments starting at $875.

Luxury rentals often include features like granite countertops, smart home technology, rooftop pools, and breathtaking city views.

Lifestyle & Amenities

The Heights offers a perfect blend of its rich history and a thriving modern vibe. 19th Street is a hub of activity, lined with cafes, boutiques, and specialty shops that create a lively atmosphere. The M-K-T Heights development has become a favorite spot for unique shopping, dining, and entertainment, with direct access to the hike and bike trail.

Foodies will feel right at home with options ranging from morning coffee at Boomtown Coffee to upscale dining at Rainbow Lodge or casual eats at Squabble. Local businesses like Manready Mercantile highlight the community’s support for Houston-made goods, offering homewares, clothing, and gifts.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Heights Boulevard features excellent biking and walking paths, while parks like Milroy Park and Spotts Park provide green spaces perfect for relaxing or walking your dog. The Heights Hike and Bike Trail and the White Oak Bayou Greenway extend these recreational opportunities even further.

Art and culture thrive here as well. The Heights Theater hosts live music, and the monthly First Saturday Arts Market showcases crafts, plants, and artwork with live performances. Other creative attractions include the Art Car Museum and the Aurora Picture Show, adding to the neighborhood’s artistic energy.

Commute & Accessibility

Getting around The Heights is straightforward. METRO bus lines 27, 30, and 40 serve the area, and the Quitman/Near Northside light rail station is within a 30-minute walk.

Public transit is affordable, with METRORail tickets priced at $1.25 one-way. The rail system can get you downtown in about 30 minutes, and local bus fares are the same, with discounted rides costing $0.60. The RideMETRO app makes it easy to plan trips and even access the neighborhood’s microtransit rideshare services.

For drivers, commuting to destinations like the Texas Medical Center typically takes 30–50 minutes, depending on traffic. During rush hour, using the bus to connect to the Red Line or taking surface streets like Studewood/Montrose can save time.

Best Fit for Renters

The Heights attracts a diverse crowd, with a median age of about 38 and an average individual income of $88,926. It’s especially popular with young professionals and couples who value its mix of career accessibility and vibrant lifestyle.

Dog owners will love The Heights, as many apartment complexes include dog parks and indoor wash stations. The abundance of green spaces, walking trails, and pet-friendly businesses makes it easy to keep your furry friend happy and active.

Creative professionals are drawn to the neighborhood’s artistic vibe, with plenty of galleries, studios, and events to explore. As real estate expert Chris Schmidt explains:

"The local business scene in Houston Heights is special because it’s grown organically with the neighborhood."

  • Chris Schmidt, Real Estate Expert, Your Home Sold Guaranteed Realty – Chris Schmidt Team

Young couples also appreciate the walkable streets, diverse dining options, and the balance of urban convenience with neighborhood charm.

With its variety of housing options, lively atmosphere, and practical commuting choices, The Heights sets a high standard before we look at Washington Corridor and Rice Military.

2. Washington Corridor / Rice Military

Housing Options

Washington Corridor and Rice Military are known for their modern living spaces, offering a mix of apartments, townhomes, and houses designed to meet the needs of renters who value newer construction and upscale features.

  • Apartments: Options range from studios to three-bedroom units. Studio rentals start at $1,486, one-bedroom units average $1,688, while two-bedroom apartments go for around $2,262. Larger three-bedroom units can cost up to $2,925 per month.
  • Townhomes: Popular in gated communities, these rentals come with perks like updated kitchens, open layouts, rooftop terraces, and private yards. Monthly rents typically range from $2,400 to $5,000, making them a great option for professionals who want the feel of a home without the commitment of ownership.
  • Houses: For those who need even more space, house rentals are available, usually priced between $1,995 and $2,995 per month.

Many apartments in the area come with added conveniences like fitness centers, pools, in-unit washer/dryers, and stainless steel appliances, blending comfort with modern amenities.

Lifestyle & Amenities

Washington Corridor and Rice Military offer a lively, urban lifestyle that mixes energetic nightlife with outdoor adventures. The bustling Washington Avenue is the neighborhood’s heartbeat, filled with trendy coffee shops, stylish boutiques, and vibrant bars.

The nightlife scene is diverse, featuring rooftop bars with sweeping city views, live music venues, and upscale wine lounges. Dining options range from laid-back brunch spots to high-end restaurants. For outdoor enthusiasts, Memorial Park is a major draw, especially after the 2020 Eastern Glades renovation funded by a $70 million Kinder Foundation grant. The upgrades include walking trails, a picturesque lake, and improved picnic areas. Buffalo Bayou Park adds even more outdoor options, offering scenic trails and spaces for recreation.

The area’s walkable streets and bike-friendly paths make it easy to enjoy everything the neighborhood has to offer.

Commute & Accessibility

Rice Military’s location within the Inner Loop makes commuting a breeze, with easy access to downtown via I-10 and Memorial Drive.

Public transit options include METRO’s bus line 85 along Washington Avenue, which connects residents to the broader transit network. Riders can check real-time bus updates through text, online maps, or digital signs. For those commuting from outside the 610 Loop, METRO’s Park & Ride service offers a stress-free trip to downtown and the Texas Medical Center using HOV lanes to avoid traffic. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available, and Buffalo Bayou Park’s bike trails provide a scenic, car-free route to downtown and Memorial Park.

Best Fit for Renters

Washington Corridor stands out as a sleek, modern alternative to the historic charm of The Heights, making it a magnet for dynamic professionals. The neighborhood boasts a median age of 33.2 years, an average individual income of $103,453, and a workforce where 97% are white-collar professionals.

Young couples are drawn to the area’s buzzing nightlife, diverse dining scene, and convenient access to both work and recreation. Socially active renters will love the abundance of bars, restaurants, and gathering spots that create a lively community vibe.

For dog owners, the proximity to Memorial Park’s expansive green spaces and trails offers plenty of opportunities for exercise and socializing. This neighborhood’s mix of urban energy and outdoor access also appeals to creative professionals seeking a setting that balances work and play effortlessly.

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Pros and Cons of Each Neighborhood

The Heights and Washington Corridor each bring their own flavor to the rental scene, offering distinct perks and trade-offs.

The Heights stands out for its historic appeal and walkable streets. With tree-lined avenues and charming bungalows, this neighborhood exudes a warm, residential vibe that attracts those who value a sense of community and character.

Washington Corridor and Rice Military, on the other hand, is all about modern living and a lively atmosphere. It boasts a strong livability score of 87, ranking as the second-best neighborhood in Houston and seventh in Texas. Ariel Villarreal, a realtor with Coldwell Banker Realty, highlights the area’s top draws:

"The top things about this area are the proximity to downtown, the nightlife [along Washington Avenue] and the walkability."

However, the energetic nightlife and bustling streets – especially on weekends – might not be for everyone. The lively nature of Washington Corridor is balanced by its excellent connectivity and shorter commutes. In fact, 11% of residents here have commutes of 0 to 14 minutes, while 25% enjoy commutes between 15 to 29 minutes. Its central location, nestled between Washington Avenue and neighborhoods like the Galleria, Montrose, and The Heights, ensures easy access to key areas.

When it comes to housing costs, the differences are subtle. Washington Avenue’s average rent is slightly lower overall, though larger units tend to be more expensive.

Factor The Heights Washington Corridor
Average Rent $1,712 $1,688
Nightlife Quieter, local bars Vibrant, diverse scene
Character Historic charm Modern, upscale
Parks Smaller neighborhood parks Access to Memorial Park & Buffalo Bayou Park
Shopping Boutique shops on 19th St Boutique shops; approximately 20 minutes to the Galleria
Best For Families and quiet professionals Young professionals and social renters

For dog owners, both neighborhoods offer great options. Washington Corridor features expansive trails, while The Heights provides cozy, residential parks.

Ultimately, the choice between these two neighborhoods hinges on your lifestyle. Washington Corridor buzzes with energy, offering rooftop bars and late-night dining. Meanwhile, The Heights offers a quieter pace, with coffee shops and local eateries perfect for unwinding. Whether you’re drawn to historic charm and a tight-knit community or modern amenities and a vibrant social scene, there’s a neighborhood here to match your priorities.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing between The Heights and Washington Corridor, both neighborhoods offer walkable, lively environments but cater to different lifestyles.

The Heights is ideal for those drawn to historic charm, a quieter atmosphere, and a strong sense of community. It’s a haven for boutique shopping and relaxing in cozy parks.

On the other hand, Washington Corridor and Rice Military appeal to those who crave modern conveniences, a buzzing social scene, and the perks of shorter commutes to downtown. With walkable streets and easy access to expansive trails, it’s a hotspot for young professionals who enjoy nightlife and outdoor activities.

While The Heights tends to attract couples and renters who value a close-knit community, Washington Corridor is perfect for those seeking a more dynamic and fast-paced lifestyle. Safety is generally not a concern in either area, though certain parts of The Heights may require a bit more awareness.

Ready to find your next home? Taco Street Locating offers free, personalized apartment locating services in Houston. With local expertise and a deep understanding of both neighborhoods, we’ll help you discover the perfect apartment that fits your lifestyle and budget. Reach out to Taco Street Locating today and let’s find the place that feels like home.

FAQs

What sets the lifestyle and amenities of The Heights apart from Washington Corridor?

The Heights stands out with its quaint historic homes, cozy mid-rise apartments, and bike-friendly streets, creating a laid-back, community-oriented atmosphere. It’s a great spot for anyone who appreciates a slower pace of life, enjoys boutique shopping, and loves exploring scenic trails.

On the flip side, Washington Corridor (including Rice Military) offers a taste of modern living, featuring sleek new apartments, stylish townhomes, and a vibrant nightlife. This area caters to those who thrive on socializing, value the convenience of Memorial Park, and prefer a lively, urban vibe.

How do rental prices in The Heights compare to Washington Corridor for different types of housing?

Renting in The Heights generally comes with a higher price tag compared to Washington Corridor. The average monthly rent in The Heights is about $2,022, while Washington Corridor offers a slightly more affordable average of $1,885. These prices can shift depending on the type of property you’re looking for. The Heights often features historic homes and mid-rise apartments, which can drive up costs. On the other hand, Washington Corridor leans more toward newer apartments and townhomes that tend to be a bit easier on the wallet.

When it comes to lifestyle, both neighborhoods bring a lot to the table. If you’re drawn to walkable streets, a buzzing nightlife, or distinctive housing options, either area could work. That said, The Heights might appeal more to those ready to invest a little extra for its charm and historic character.

What are the best ways to commute from The Heights and Washington Corridor to downtown Houston?

Commuting from The Heights and Washington Corridor to downtown Houston is straightforward and offers plenty of options. The METRO bus system makes public transit a breeze, with routes like Line 040 getting you to Downtown in roughly 19 minutes. Plus, METRO provides fare cards and mobile ticketing to make your ride even smoother.

If driving is more your style, both neighborhoods have easy access to I-10 and the 610 Loop, allowing you to reach Downtown in just a few minutes – traffic permitting, of course. And for those who prefer not to drive, rideshare services are readily available, offering a convenient and stress-free way to get where you need to go.

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