Rockport versus Port Aransas (Corpus Christi, Spring: spring break, rent, buying)

[ThanksABunch]

We're considering a move to the Texas coast and have narrowed it down to Port A or Rockport. We are not concerned with buying just yet..but renting. Rent is cheaper in Rockport, we have found.

Can anyone give us the rundown on the differences between these towns...especially with overall views (is one more liberal than another or are they both very "texas"?

Does one have better schools than another? (We have a child going into 4th grade next fall.)

I hear Rockport has a beach...and is it as nice as Port A?

Anything else we should know about the differences?

We have actually spent time in Port A but not Rockport...so we kind of know the vibe of Port A and realize it is more of a tourist place...but Rockport is a place we have only passed through.

Thank you!!

[Marlow]

Rockport is becoming known as a retirement community and an arts community. Port Aransas is more of a party-on-the-beach community, although it has some very exclusive subdivisions. I don't know anything about either school district, but you could look at GreatSchools.net. Port Aransas is crazy at Spring Break--Rockport isn't really. If you live in Port A, you either have to take the ferry, which can back waaaay up in summer, or do a 30-minute drive to get to Corpus Christi. Both have good restaurants. There is a great community pool in Aransas Pass (thinking of your 4th-grader), which is close to both Rp and PA, but again, there's the ferry ride to consider.

I suggest you take a couple of days and explore both of them. Both would be nice places to live if you're looking for a beachy lifestyle.

[tgannaway89]

I loved Port A when I visited there. Never been to Rockport though. Good luck!

[ABBreedlove]

I have always felt like Rockport is more laid back and easy going than Port A. Both towns have their share of tourist, but Port A attracts a bit of a wilder crowd.

As one who is very "Texas" rather than liberal, I have found Rockport has a true variety in its townspeople. Like most small Texas towns, there is a well established group of blue collar, snuff dipping, truck driving bubbas that are nice, but are anything but liberal. However, with the strong presence of the art community, you will find plenty of folks on the left side of the line.

I do not know anything about the schools, and I have always enjoyed the beach at RP, but they do not allow dogs on the beach so my lab does not care for it.

If you want to spend some time in RP, I suggest staying at the Little Bay Resort (nice comfortable cabins).

[LivingLikeAGradStudent]

Rockport seemed like a better place to live and Port A a better place to hang out. The ferry, while interesting, would get old in going to Corpus or points beyond.