Known as “Oiltown, USA,” Tomball gained exposure when Exxon and 20 other energy companies helped provide the Houston suburb with jobs and economic prosperity throughout the 20th century. Now, the town retains its historic roots while benefitting from parks, local businesses and community pride.
Situated a little over 30 miles northwest of Downtown Houston, Tomball is far enough where families and retirees can settle while remaining local to a large metro filled with opportunity. Although the drive is short, making the trip to Houston isn’t always necessity with the neighborhood amenities right in town.
How did Tomball get started?
Formerly called Peck until 1907, Tomball was given its new name in honor of Thomas Bell, a pioneer who brought the railroad through the small Harris County town. Bell previously held a Congress position, was named mayor of Huntsville three times and practiced law in Houston. Named the “Father of the Port of Houston,” Bell is recognized for inspiring Tomball’s economic, business and residential growth.
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The Houston suburb houses its own museum center with a dozen historic buildings and galleries. The restored railroad depot and museum is a highlight for locals looking to learn more about the town’s history and significance. Every Christmas, Tomball celebrates with Candlelight tours at Tomball’s Museum Center.
Current events in Tomball
Not forgetting its Texas roots, southern barbecue and Baja-style Mexican food is readily available in restaurants throughout the small suburban oasis. Fresh fruits, veggies and goods are available at the year-round Tomball Farmers Market, held every Saturday.
Tomball Holiday Parade / Flickr user Texas.713
Tomball hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the Tomball Honky Tonk Music Festival in June, Beetles, Brew and Barbecue in September and the Rails & Tails Mudbug Festival in May. In October, locals and nearby residents attend the Tomball Bluegrass Festival and Zomball in Tomball, a Halloween-inspired event geared toward families.
The town also hosts Tomball Night and the Tomball Texas Music Festival in August. Throughout the warmer months, Tomball typically hosts a local event for residents to look forward to – without leaving the comfort of the community.
For the athletic type, Tomball has three dozen driving ranges and golf courses in close proximity. Plus, hiking, biking, fishing and bird watching trails are abundant in the area. For an adventurous experience, kayakers and canoers ride along the Spring Creek or Cyprus Creek.
Cost of living in a Houston suburb
The Tomball Economic Development Corporation reports a 2015 population of 21,124 residents in a three-mile radius of town. While a fair share of households (32.9 percent) earn over $100,000 per year, the average income is $89,289 annually.
According to Altos Research, the median price of a single-family home in Tomball is $343,108. Homes in Tomball sit on the market for an average of 127 days – giving buyers a little leeway in terms of availability and demand.
There were 578 homes for sale in Tomball as of June 24, according to Altos. Although the market is smaller than the Houston city center, a higher cost of entry for buyers helps keep mass competition at bay.
