Montgomery County Relocation Guides

Learn more about the best places to live in Montgomery County.
Conroe-Texas-Featured-Image

Conroe

40 minutes from Houston

Lake Conroe

54 minutes from Houston
Magnolia-Texas-Featured-Image

Magnolia

55 minutes from Houston
Montgomery-Texas-Featured-Image

Montgomery

1 hr. 12 min. from Houston
The-Woodlands-Texas-Relocation-Guide

The Woodlands

45 minutes from Houston

Willis

50 minutes from Houston

The Ultimate Guide to Montgomery County, Texas

Welcome to Montgomery County, Texas—a thriving, fast-growing region in the heart of Southeast Texas, where Southern hospitality, modern convenience, and natural beauty come together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re a new resident, business investor, or curious traveler, this guide dives into everything you need to know about life, work, and play in one of Texas’s most dynamic counties.

Located just north of Houston, Montgomery County is where suburban luxury, Hill Country vibes, and economic opportunity meet. Let’s take a closer look at why this area is one of the most desirable places to live in the Lone Star State.

1. Where Is Montgomery County, Texas?

Montgomery County is situated in southeast Texas, just north of Harris County (home to Houston). It’s bordered by counties such as Walker, Grimes, San Jacinto, Liberty, and Waller, placing it at the epicenter of growth in the Houston–The Woodlands–Sugar Land metropolitan area.

The county includes a variety of cities and communities, including:

  • The Woodlands – A master-planned urban center

  • Conroe – The county seat and booming hub

  • Montgomery – A historic small town with modern appeal

  • Willis, Magnolia, and New Caney – All rapidly growing communities with their own unique identities

With easy access to Interstate 45, Highway 59, and the Grand Parkway (TX-99), it’s a commuter’s dream and a launchpad for business and travel.


2. A Rich History That Shaped Texas

Did you know that Montgomery County is considered the birthplace of the Texas Lone Star Flag? Established in 1837, the area played a pivotal role during the early days of Texas independence and statehood.

Historic landmarks like the N.H. Davis Pioneer Complex, Fernland Historical Park, and downtown Montgomery’s preserved buildings showcase the region’s roots. And while the county embraces rapid growth, it still holds tight to its historic charm and community pride.


3. Real Estate and Housing Market

If you’re considering a move, Montgomery County offers something for everyone—from luxury estates and waterfront homes to starter homes and rural acreage.

Popular Housing Options Include:

  • Luxury homes in The Woodlands – Gated communities, golf courses, and scenic parks

  • Affordable homes in Conroe and Willis

  • Farm and ranch properties in Magnolia and Montgomery

  • Lakefront living around Lake Conroe

  • New construction in up-and-coming areas like Porter and New Caney

With continued growth and real estate appreciation outpacing the state average, it’s also a strong location for real estate investment.


4. Cities and Communities of Montgomery County

Let’s explore the diverse areas that make Montgomery County so special:

The Woodlands

One of the most successful master-planned communities in the U.S.
Highlights:

  • Upscale shopping at Market Street and The Woodlands Mall

  • Concerts at Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

  • Miles of greenbelts, hike-and-bike trails, and luxury homes

  • Corporate campuses for ExxonMobil, Huntsman, and others

Conroe

The county seat and Texas’s fastest-growing city.
Highlights:

  • Vibrant downtown with breweries, theaters, and restaurants

  • Lake Conroe access for recreation and dining

  • New master-planned communities like Grand Central Park

Montgomery

The charming small town that inspired the Texas flag.
Highlights:

  • Historic downtown with boutiques and wine bars

  • Proximity to Lake Conroe and nearby wineries

  • Family-friendly festivals and farmers markets

Magnolia, Willis, Porter, and New Caney

Growing rural and suburban areas attracting families and developers.
Highlights:

  • Affordable land and housing

  • Excellent schools and new amenities

  • Rural charm with proximity to Houston


5. Education and Schools

Montgomery County offers top-tier public and private education options, making it ideal for families.

Major School Districts:

  • Conroe ISD – One of the best-rated districts in Texas

  • Magnolia ISD

  • Willis ISD

  • New Caney ISD

  • Montgomery ISD

Schools in the area boast strong academic performance, award-winning extracurriculars, and advanced STEM and CTE programs.

Higher Education:

  • Lone Star College – Montgomery Campus

  • Sam Houston State University (nearby in Huntsville)

  • Access to University of Houston and Texas A&M within driving distance


6. Parks, Trails, and Outdoor Recreation

If you love the outdoors, Montgomery County is your playground. With lush forests, lakes, and green space, there’s no shortage of things to do outside.

Top Outdoor Destinations:

  • Lake Conroe – Boating, fishing, paddleboarding, and lakefront dining

  • Sam Houston National Forest – Hiking, biking, and hunting

  • The Woodlands Waterway and Town Green Park

  • WG Jones State Forest – Popular for nature walks and photography

  • Spring Creek Greenway – 40+ miles of trails for biking and walking

It’s easy to live an active lifestyle surrounded by Texas natural beauty.


7. Business and Economic Growth

Montgomery County is one of the most business-friendly regions in Texas. With a combination of affordable land, supportive policy, and access to major markets, businesses of all sizes are thriving.

Key Economic Drivers:

  • Oil and gas – Especially in The Woodlands and surrounding areas

  • Health care and biotechnology

  • Corporate headquarters – ExxonMobil, Anadarko, Huntsman

  • Retail and hospitality

  • Construction and real estate development

The Woodlands Area Economic Development Partnership and Conroe EDC actively attract national and global investment.


8. Dining, Shopping, and Entertainment

Montgomery County has an impressive variety of dining, shopping, and nightlife options—from high-end to hole-in-the-wall.

Where to Eat:

  • TRIS in The Woodlands – Upscale and innovative

  • Vernon’s Kuntry Katfish in Conroe – A local favorite

  • Fielding’s Wood Grill – Gourmet burgers and craft cocktails

  • H‑E‑B True Texas BBQ

  • Countless food trucks, BBQ joints, breweries, and Tex-Mex favorites

Where to Shop:

  • The Woodlands Mall and Market Street

  • Outlets at Conroe

  • Boutiques in Downtown Montgomery

  • Antique shops in Magnolia and Willis

Live music venues, movie theaters, and community festivals offer something fun every weekend.


9. Events, Festivals, and Cultural Attractions

Montgomery County has a full calendar of family-friendly events, music festivals, and community traditions.

Can’t-Miss Events:

  • The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival

  • Conroe Cajun Catfish Festival

  • Wine and Music Festival in Montgomery

  • July 4th Fireworks Extravaganza on Lake Conroe

  • Magnolia Stroll and Farmers Market

From wine tastings to chili cook-offs, these events foster strong local culture and community connection.


10. Healthcare and Public Services

Montgomery County boasts world-class health care facilities and modern infrastructure, with options for every age and need.

Top Healthcare Providers:

  • Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital

  • Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center

  • CHI St. Luke’s Health – The Woodlands

  • HCA Houston Healthcare Conroe

From pediatricians to specialists and urgent care, the area is well-equipped for families and retirees alike.

Public safety is also excellent, with well-funded law enforcement, EMS, fire departments, and storm preparedness programs.


11. Transportation and Connectivity

Commuters and remote workers both benefit from Montgomery County’s transportation options and expanding internet access.

  • I-45 and TX-249 (Aggie Expressway) connect to Houston and College Station

  • TX-99 (Grand Parkway) expands east-west access

  • George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is under an hour away

  • Park-and-ride and METRO connections available

  • High-speed internet is widely available, including fiber in The Woodlands


12. Why People Are Moving to Montgomery County

So, why are thousands of people choosing to call Montgomery County home? Here’s why:

Proximity to Houston without the congestion
Exceptional school districts
Access to nature, parks, and water recreation
Modern healthcare and safety
Booming economy and job market
Affordable real estate with long-term value
Tight-knit communities and endless events

Whether you’re a young professional, growing family, retiree, or investor, Montgomery County offers unmatched opportunity and livability.


Conclusion: Montgomery County, Texas Is Where Growth Meets Quality of Life

From the vibrant streets of The Woodlands to the peaceful lakeside homes of Montgomery, from top-rated schools to thriving small towns, Montgomery County, Texas is more than a place to live—it’s a place to grow.

Whether you’re buying a home, launching a business, or simply seeking a better lifestyle, Montgomery County checks every box.

Explore it. Invest in it. Make it home. Welcome to Montgomery County.