Moving to Katy, TX: A Comprehensive Relocation Guide

Considering movingo to the Katy, Texas? This Houston metro area offers an exceptional blend of suburban charm, excellent schools, and easy access to big-city amenities. Located just 30 miles west of downtown Houston, this rapidly growing community has become one of the most sought-after places to live in Texas. With its family-friendly atmosphere, strong job market, and renowned school district, Katy presents an attractive option for families, young professionals, and retirees alike in 2026.

Demographic Profile to Consider If Moving to Katy

Katy’s population has experienced remarkable growth, reaching approximately 29,000 residents within the city limits in 2026, with the Greater Katy area encompassing over 340,000 people. The median age sits at 36 years, reflecting a vibrant mix of young families and established professionals. The community boasts a diverse population with 52% identifying as White, 12% as Black or African American, 9% as Asian, and 29% as Hispanic or Latino of any race. The median household income of $107,000 significantly exceeds both state and national averages, while the poverty rate remains low at just 5.4%. With over 44% of residents holding bachelor’s or graduate degrees, Katy attracts a highly educated workforce that supports the area’s continued economic growth.

Cost of Living to Consider If Moving to Katy

Katy offers a relatively balanced cost of living compared to other Houston suburbs, though housing costs reflect the area’s desirability. The median home value stands at approximately $377,000 in 2026, with the homeownership rate at a robust 77%. For renters, the median gross rent hovers around $1,600 per month, providing options for those not yet ready to purchase. The overall Cost of Living Index for the Katy area sits slightly below the national average, making it an affordable choice within the Greater Houston metro. Property taxes in Texas remain relatively high to offset the lack of state income tax, but many residents find the trade-off worthwhile. Everyday expenses including groceries, utilities, and transportation align closely with national averages, while healthcare costs remain competitive.

Economy and Job Market

Katy’s economy thrives on its proximity to Houston’s robust job market while maintaining its own strong employment base in 2026. Major employers in the region include BP America’s Westlake campus with over 5,500 employees, Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus, Katy Independent School District, and numerous energy companies operating in the nearby Energy Corridor. The retail sector flourishes with Katy Mills Mall and extensive commercial development along I-10. Retail trade employs approximately 1,450 residents, followed by construction with 1,000 workers and manufacturing with nearly 950 employees. The city’s strategic location along Interstate 10 provides residents with convenient access to Houston’s diverse employment opportunities in healthcare, energy, technology, and professional services. The employment rate stands at approximately 95%, and the area continues to attract businesses seeking a well-educated workforce and proximity to major transportation corridors.

Education

Education stands as one of Katy’s strongest selling points, with the Katy Independent School District (KISD) consistently ranking among the top school districts in Texas. KISD serves over 34,000 students across 39 campuses in 2026, offering state-of-the-art facilities, competitive athletics programs, and specialized academic tracks including STEM, fine arts, and career and technical education. The district’s commitment to excellence is reflected in high graduation rates and strong college readiness scores. Numerous private school options complement the public system, including Catholic and non-denominational Christian schools. For higher education, the area provides easy access to the University of Houston, Rice University, and Houston Community College. The combination of exceptional public schools and higher education accessibility makes Katy particularly attractive to families prioritizing education in their relocation decisions.

Recreation and Lifestyle

Katy delivers an abundant recreational lifestyle with over 20 parks spanning hundreds of acres throughout the community in 2026. Mary Jo Peckham Park offers fishing ponds, walking trails, and paddle boat rentals, while Katy Park features athletic fields, playgrounds, and community event spaces. The city maintains over 50 miles of hike and bike trails connecting neighborhoods and parks. Katy Mills Mall provides shopping, dining, and entertainment including a movie theater and arcade. The historic Old Katy district preserves the town’s railroad heritage with charming shops, restaurants, and the Katy Heritage Museum. Food enthusiasts enjoy diverse dining options ranging from authentic Tex-Mex to Italian cuisine and gourmet burgers. The area hosts numerous community events throughout the year, including the Katy Rice Harvest Festival celebrating the town’s agricultural roots. Golf courses, youth sports leagues, and proximity to Houston’s museums, theaters, and professional sports teams round out the lifestyle offerings.

Healthcare and Services

Healthcare access in Katy has expanded significantly to serve the growing population in 2026. Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus provides comprehensive pediatric and women’s health services, while Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital offers full-service adult care including emergency services, surgery, and specialized treatments. Houston Methodist West Hospital, HCA Houston Healthcare West, and numerous urgent care clinics ensure residents have convenient access to quality medical care. The area supports dozens of specialty medical practices covering cardiology, orthopedics, dermatology, and more. Approximately 89% of Katy residents have health insurance coverage, with the majority enrolled in employer-sponsored plans. The proximity to Houston’s world-renowned Texas Medical Center places cutting-edge healthcare within easy reach for complex medical needs. Senior services, mental health resources, and wellness centers contribute to comprehensive community health support.

Transportation

Transportation in Katy centers primarily on personal vehicles, with Interstate 10 (Katy Freeway) serving as the main artery connecting residents to Houston and beyond in 2026. The average commute time of 30 minutes reflects typical suburban travel patterns, with approximately 83% of residents driving alone to work. Houston METRO provides public transit options including several Park & Ride locations along I-10, with routes like the 298 Katy Freeway/TMC offering express service to downtown Houston and the Texas Medical Center during peak hours. The planned METRORapid Inner Katy project will eventually enhance transit options along the I-10 corridor. For air travel, George Bush Intercontinental Airport sits approximately 45 miles northeast, while William P. Hobby Airport offers closer access about 35 miles to the southeast. The city’s master-planned communities feature extensive sidewalk networks and bike trails for local travel.

Conclusion

Katy, Texas stands out as an exceptional relocation destination in 2026 for those seeking quality schools, a strong job market, and a family-oriented community within the Greater Houston area. The city’s impressive growth trajectory, highly-rated school district, and diverse recreational amenities create an appealing lifestyle package. While housing costs reflect the area’s desirability, the overall value proposition—including low crime rates, excellent education, and proximity to Houston’s employment centers—makes Katy a compelling choice for relocating families and professionals. Whether you’re drawn by the renowned schools, the tight-knit community atmosphere, or the accessibility to big-city opportunities, Katy offers the perfect blend of suburban comfort and metropolitan convenience that continues to attract residents from across the nation.