Neighborhood Spotlight: Southgate – Historic Elegance Next to the Med Center
- Steven Kleiman
- Jul 15
- 2 min read
By Steven Kleiman, Broker, Oakington Realty, Houston, TX
Nestled just south of Rice University and minutes from the Texas Medical Center, Southgate is a quiet, tree-lined pocket that combines historic charm with unmatched walkability. This prestigious neighborhood is one of Houston’s best-kept secrets, especially for professionals, academics, and families seeking a sense of community within the city’s urban core.
Southgate offers the perfect balance of old-world architecture and modern amenities in a location that places residents close to everything.
🏠 Architecture and Home Values
Homes for sale in Southgate reflect the neighborhood’s rich history and timeless appeal. You’ll find a blend of:
1930s and 1940s English-style cottages
Brick traditionals with distinctive architectural details
Thoughtfully renovated or expanded homes that retain their character
Luxury new construction homes built in recent years to match the area’s upscale feel
Most lots range from 5,000 to 7,000 square feet, and home prices typically fall between $850,000 and $2 million or more, depending on size, condition, and proximity to Rice Village.
🏫 Top-Rated Schools
Southgate is zoned to some of Houston ISD’s most desirable public schools:
Roberts Elementary School – Consistently rated among the best elementary schools in the district
Pershing Middle School
Lamar High School
The neighborhood is also convenient to top private schools and educational institutions affiliated with Rice University and the Medical Center.
🌆 Location and Lifestyle
Living in Southgate means enjoying one of Houston’s most walkable and connected lifestyles. Just steps away are some of the city’s most beloved destinations:
Rice Village, with boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes
Hermann Park, perfect for morning runs or evening strolls
Easy access to Downtown, the Galleria, and major employers like Texas Children’s Hospital and MD Anderson
🏘️ Community and Character
Established in the 1930s, Southgate developed alongside the expansion of Rice University and the Texas Medical Center. Today it includes about 500 homes, making it one of the smallest and most tightly knit neighborhoods in central Houston.
The Southgate Civic Club plays an active role in preserving the neighborhood’s peaceful atmosphere, maintaining deed restrictions, and organizing community events.
Residents often include physicians, university faculty, and long-term homeowners who value Southgate’s walkability, architectural heritage, and friendly environment.
🎬 Fun Fact
Did you know? Southgate served as a filming location for the 1994 movie "The Chase" starring Charlie Sheen and Kristy Swanson. Its charming streets and picturesque homes made it the perfect setting for a classic Houston scene.
If you're thinking about buying or selling in Southgate, I’d be happy to help. Whether you’re relocating for work, looking for a forever home, or want to invest in a neighborhood that holds its value, Southgate delivers on all fronts.
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