Houston’s Fastest-Growing Suburb Emerges As Top Choice for Retirees Seeking Convenience

Katy is a rapidly growing suburb west of Houston known for comfortable communities and modern amenities. With a population under 28,000, it will appeal to retirees who are seeking warm weather, safety, and everyday convenience without the crowds and fast pace of city living.

Cost of Living and Housing

Housing in Katy, Texas, is more affordable than it is in many master-planned retirement markets in the Sun Belt. Median monthly housing costs in Katy are $1,839 per month, with renters paying an even lower $1,609. This is lower than the national median cost of housing per month for homeowners, which in 2024 was $2,035. (It is slightly higher, however, than the median monthly cost for renters, which was $1,487.)

Everyday essentials in Katy are also moderately priced, further benefiting retirees on a budget. Katy is primarily located in Harris County, where in January 2026, the average cost of gas was $2.388 per gallon, compared to a national average of $2.862 per gallon. Groceries in Katy are 4% lower than the national average. And the average electricity bill for Harris County residents is $170.15 per month, which is lower than that of 169 other counties in Texas. Overall, the average cost of living in Katy is 10% lower than the national average.

Texas does not have a personal state income tax, which is a major benefit for retirement planning. There is no local income tax in Katy, either. Katy homeowners do pay property tax at a 2025 rate of $0.425 per $100, significantly lower than the national 2024 average of $0.888 per $100.

Lifestyle and Community Appeal

Katy’s neighborhoods feature a mix of single-family homes, gated communities, and condos. Many of the neighborhoods are master-planned communities with fitness centers, pools, walking trails, parks, and more. The suburb overall is a clean, well-planned environment with strong local infrastructure and services. The lifestyle in Katy will appeal to retirees who value predictability, ease, and a relaxed suburban pace.

In addition to the local amenities found in each planned community, Katy has many active community groups, churches, and local events. These will give retirees many avenues for socializing and building connections.

Community and Everyday Living

Every day life in Katy is convenient and easy to navigate. You’ll find abundant shopping, grocery stores, restaurants, and services close to residential areas. Popular shopping destinations, such as Katy Mills and LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch, are nearby and convenient to get to.

Residents can also take advantage of having a major city nearby without needing to live there. Most communities have easy access to I-10, which will take you directly into downtown Houston.

Outdoor and Recreation Options

The warm Texas climate means Katy residents can enjoy outdoor living for most of the year. The suburb has many local parks, including a dog park, that feature walking trails, tennis courts, community centers, historic sites, and more. Local events, such as the annual Katy Rice Harvest Parade and Festival and the Christmas tree lighting, bring the community together.

Healthcare Access

Retirees in Katy have easy access to doctors. You’ll find dozens of hospitals within driving distance, both in Katy and throughout west Houston, as well as nearby urgent care centers. For everyday care, there are thousands of other healthcare facilities in the area as well.

When specialized care is needed, living near Houston will also provide access to world-class medical systems. It’s worth noting, however, that the cost of healthcare in Katy is slightly higher (3%) than the national average cost of healthcare. The average doctor’s visit, for example, costs $142.86, and the average cost of medication is $22.92 for a prescription.

The Bottom Line

Katy, located in the western suburbs of Houston, is a fast-growing area with planned communities, moderately priced housing, and no income tax. Being near Houston lets residents take advantage of the cultural and healthcare benefits of a city while avoiding the nightlife and tourism that come with downtown living. It’s an ideal destination for retirees who prefer modern comfort, strong local services, and low daily stress.