KATY
Katy
The city of Katy is only about a 20-minute drive west from downtown Houston. The approximately 14,000 residents who live there enjoy all of the conveniences of the city, as well as many amenities of their own. These include unique antique shops, restaurants and gift and specialty shops, as well as historic sites, parks and museums. Katy Mills, the third-largest shopping center in the Houston region, is one of the latest additions.
History
The area where the city of Katy now stands started out as hunting grounds for the Karankawa Indian tribes - it was once home to buffalo, ducks, geese, longhorn cattle, deer, wolves and many other types of animals. Then in 1872, the first Katy community was settled, Cane Island. In 1945, the city of Katy was officially incorporated. Before long, it was a major farming center and a vibrant, family-focused community.
The Katy Heritage Society has acquired and restored several historic landmarks in the city, such as a caboose and train depot, which now acts as the Visitors' Center.
Real Estate
Katy real estate is home to many historic homes downtown, as well as several upscale divisions and developments. These include Green Trails, Kelliwood, Nottingham and the master-planned Cinco Ranch, one of the fastest-growing communities in Texas. Homes are available in a wide variety of styles and prices.
Katy attracts home buyers from all over the state with its combination of small-town atmosphere and urban conveniences, as well as many oil and gas professionals working for companies in the Energy Corridor. The city also attracts many families because of the Katy Independent School District. More than 7,000 parents, business professionals and other community members volunteer in Katy schools. This acclaimed school district is the one of the fastest growing in the Houston area.
