Reviews & Comments
Friendswood, TX
An excellent suburban community -
3/3/2007Growing up in Friendswood over the last 40+ years, the changes are apparent every where. My home is where there used to be rice fields and we watched planes crop dust. A McDonalds is where a friend's home used to be. We used to see horses on the main street (Friendswood Drive) in the summers and after school. Along came NASA and the space program and it began to accelerate through the late 20th century.
Weather Pro's: rarely days that freeze or snow. Con's: too many days above 90F. This is aggravated by high humidity. Susceptible to Hurricane damage, although there has only been one with significant damage since I have lived here.
Economy: Good access to employment opportunities. Good earnings potential and no state income tax. However, property taxes are slightly more than 3% (not unique to Friendswood).
Cost of Living: Housing is less than national average although a littler higher than surrounding areas. Energy is relatively cheap but you use a bunch on those 90+ days. Most other staples are readily accessible and moderately priced.
Crime: Extremely low rate of violent crimes. Cops must entertain themselves by writing speeding tickets or arresting drunks after hours. Clara Harris went to Clear Lake (Houston) to commit her murder.
Education: I could not imagine another public school district that I would have sent my children to. All schools are Academically Excellent (State of Texas Rating). My belief is that this is in large part due to the elite nature of the community and the high concentration of professionals. The high school is central to town and not part of a massive, sprawling district (like those of neighboring cities)- requiring absurd bussing - nor is it likely to be due to the land-locked nature of Friendswood.
Health: Good access to excellent medical facilities in Houston (Medical Center) not Clear Lake. There are some petro-chem facilities in the area. So air quality isn't excellent, but it has improved over the years.
Housing: Most development occurred after 1960 and what was built before is hardly observable. Pending land shortage, especially if you want to build a large custom home should foster excellent resale values.
Politics: Mostly conservative (family oriented). Biggest fights are over Planning & Zoning.
Recreation: Not much as Friendswood is a "bedroom" community. Very light industry, which as a whole is frowned upon. Must travel to Houston (30 minutes) which has (arguably) world