Quality of Life

Quality of Life

Spirit of the Research Valley

Howdy and welcome to The Research Valley! More than a word around the Research Valley & Texas A&M in particular, “howdy” is a warm welcome that reflects the areas rich traditions while expressing that our arms are open wide to newcomers.

Today and in large part because of the region’s urbanization and internationalization, the Research Valley boasts a quality of place that celebrates the arts and culture, education, commerce, and the outdoors. The Research Valley is home to two of the best public school districts in the State of Texas, churches of every faith, world-class restaurants and commercial districts, and a wonderful parks system.
According to Sperling’s 2010 Best Places Cost of Living, The Research Valley is overall 19% under the national average within food, housing, utilities, healthcare, and transportation costs.  The Research Valley is known for its award-winning schools, excellent medical facilities, beautiful neighborhoods, and an abundance of outdoor activities.

  • “Most Livable U.S. Metro Area,” Money & Editor/Publisher Guide – The Research Valley provides a great place to live.
  • Cultural Diversity – Students and staff in the area’s schools are diverse, with more than 36 languages represented.
  • Best Places for Military Retirement – USAA and Military.com rank the region as #4 in the nation. 

Cost of Living Index (2011) ↓

  The Research Valley United States
Overall 94.0 100
Food 85.0 100
Housing 105.0 100
Utilities 91.0 100
Miscellaneous 88.0 100

Regional Housing Costs, 2011 ↓

Life is good in the Valley.  It’s a place where the everyday pace is in balance with the beauty of nature. Our central Texas location is the best of both worlds: small enough to offer safe and relaxed living and just a short drive to major cities. With beautiful neighborhoods for every lifestyle, multi-family living and retirement communities, there is a home for everyone in the Research Valley.  So whether you’re ready to go for business or just go barefoot, take in the fields of bluebonnets and have a beautiful day.

  2010 2011
Average Home Price $171,400 $172,800
# Homes Sold 2,011 2,009

Sports & Recreation ↓

Forget about the long commute. Here, every commute is a short one and there are numerous fun things to do.  Parks and Recreation are an integral part of Bryan-College Station, with over 1,800 acres of beautifully maintained public parks and sports facilities enhancing the area. Local recreation is plentiful — with numerous golf courses and Country Club living, lush nature trails, challenging bike trails, Big XII Sports, a winery, historic downtown marketplace, broadway shows, a skate park, and a lake for boating, fishing, and swimming.

Source: http://www.visitaggieland.com/Things-to-Do/Sports-Recreation

Weather ↓

Weather in the Research Valley is wonderful almost all year round.  With average temperatures running from a high of 78 degrees to a low of 57 degrees there is always great weather for outdoor activities.