Katy is home to an increasing number of master-planned communities, and more are on the way. Community Impact Newspaper reported in late May that developer Xu Qing LLC recently purchased 1,600 acres of land for the new residential development in the area.

Current master-planned communities in Katy are expanding, too. Cane Island recently announced a second phase of new homes, prompted by brisk sales in the community. The Houston Chronicle reported in May that the expansion will bring in homebuilders Taylor Morrison and Highland Homes. The second phase of new homes will create 250 homesites spread across Cane Island’s 100 acres.

Recently, census data showed a population shift away from Houston’s urban interior and out to its less congested suburbs. With a master-planned community on the way, Cane Island expanding, and two major master-planned communities—Cinco Ranch and Elyson—thriving, Katy is an ideal destination for homebuyers who want to be part of this wave of suburban migration. 

Here’s a rundown of these Katy communities and why you should consider living there.

Cinco Ranch 

Aerial view of homes in Cinco Ranch

Cinco Ranch boasts homes across a very wide range of prices, with houses on the lower end starting in the high $100s. These homes come in a mostly traditional style, though the layouts can stretch from three to five bedrooms.

Cinco Ranch enjoys access to both the rural edges of the city as well as the urban interior. Downtown Houston is within a half-hour drive. It’s also easy to reach the many parks and greenspaces that make Houston’s suburbs a popular draw. At the community’s Lake House, there’s a pool, a vegetable garden, tennis courts, and space for special events.

Elyson

Homes in the planned-community of Elyson

The Elyson community is 20 minutes north of Cinco Ranch along Highway 99. Homes in the area are typically priced starting in the high $200s, and they often come in a traditional style.

Elyson places a premium on fostering a friendly community, with spots like the Elyson Café and events like pool parties and movie nights. And buyers with families will be interested to know that Elyson falls within the Katy ISD district. Rated by Niche.com as the top district in the city, the schools have quality teachers and high-ranking academic performance.

Cane Island

Homes in Cane Lake around water feature

Because the community is located just off of Interstate 10, Cane Island residents can make their way to Downtown Houston within a half hour while still enjoying the more lightly populated exterior of the city.

Cane Island has a busy schedule of events, including Pilates classes, music camp for kids, holiday events like a 4th of July fireworks show, and movie nights at the community pool.

The Amenity Village, the social heart of Cane Island, offers a lot for residents to enjoy during their free time. Lounge chairs are positioned around outdoor fire pits, and the swimming pool is a quick way to get out of the Texas heat during the summer. The event center can be reserved for parties and receptions, while the Conservatory brings groups together for wine tastings, book clubs, and other small gatherings.

Cane Island distinguishes itself from other properties because of its focus on outdoor experiences for its residents. Locals will find miles of nature trails for hiking and jogging as well as several waterways for fishing and kayaking. There are also plenty of playground areas where families can take their kids during the summer.