Does anyone have anything good to say about Baytown, TX? (Houston: house, school)

[Mandres]

Originally Posted by LocalPlanner

Baytown definitely has plenty of down-at-the-heels areas, but it also has perfectly decent suburban-style neighborhoods - look off Baker west of Garth, and also off 146 south of the East Freeway. The newest areas are off Garth north of the freeway.

The city has added a fair amount of retail in the last 10 years. It's nothing amazing but you can live a decent basic suburban life in Baytown.

Agreed. In my opinion the difference in lifestyle between the nicer Baytown areas and the nicer Clear Lake areas in no way justifies a daily commute.

Clear Lake does have a lot more young, single women if that's a factor.

[tstone]

Originally Posted by Mandres

Agreed. In my opinion the difference in lifestyle between the nicer Baytown areas and the nicer Clear Lake areas in no way justifies a daily commute.

Clear Lake does have a lot more young, single women if that's a factor.

The nicer parts of Clear Lake are among the highest-earning enclaves in the entire Houston area. The schools also do not compare. Demographics are completely different. Clear Lake also has a lot more variety for shopping and dining vs Baytown.

[hellpaso]

I've worked in several residential areas in Baytown that are actually fairly nice. Unfortunately, I can't give specifics as to the actual subdivisions. One, in particular, was on a golf course.

I do know that all of the people with whom I worked drove to Clear Lake for most all of their shopping & entertainment.

[LocalPlanner]

Like I said, Baytown offers a decent BASIC suburban life. If you're looking for upscale grocery and clothing stores (Dillards and mall boutiques), and nice non-chain restaurants, you'll have to drive to Seabrook or Clear Lake. A larger number of big-box stores are also located on Fairmont Parkway in southern Pasadena. If you just have to be a quick drive from those types of things, then Baytown isn't for you.

[scout1964]

No, young women are not a factor. Neither are young men. A diverse, politically, culturally and religiously tolerant environment in which to raise my child are important to me, however. Academics matter, too. A 20 minute commute is reasonable to me.

I will say that I have noted tstone's posts regarding cancer rates and air quality. That is having impact on weighting my decision.

[scout1964]

I want to thank everyone for your posts. Each of offered something of value and interest. My son and I have arrived in Houston this evening and will be making our decision over the next few days.

Thanks so much!

[Mandres]

Originally Posted by scout1964

A diverse, politically, culturally and religiously tolerant environment in which to raise my child are important to me, however. Academics matter, too.

Clear Lake is far, far ahead of Baytown then. I didn't realize you have a young child. It will be more expensive though.

[scout1964]

*sigh*
Everything is more expensive. But worth it. And you are right. Spent time in both areas today. No comparison. Which stresses me out a little. Was really hoping to feel good about B-town. I've never had this much distance between me and son before. But I also know lots of people live that way daily. Just an adjustment for me.

[txlibrarylady]

Originally Posted by scout1964

No, young women are not a factor. Neither are young men. A diverse, politically, culturally and religiously tolerant environment in which to raise my child are important to me, however. Academics matter, too. A 20 minute commute is reasonable to me.

I will say that I have noted tstone's posts regarding cancer rates and air quality. That is having impact on weighting my decision.

Clear Lake should be about 20-30 minutes away, so it's not too bad. While Clear Lake will lean conservative because you are in Texas, you will find most people are fairly laid back about it. There is a Unitarian Universalist church in the area if you are looking to connect with people and families who are more liberal. And if academics matter, CCISD is consistently ranked as one of the best districts in the Houston area.


These school districts ranked best in the Houston area - Houston Chronicle

[kalfur]

Originally Posted by scout1964

So, am I to assume then, that the general consensus among you three is that I should not consider Baytown?

ummm. . um. .make that four!