West University is located in Harris County, Texas and is one of Houston's most appealing residential neighborhoods. The community, of about 18,000, is centrally located near Houston Medical Center, Rice University and downtown Houston. Starting in the 1980's, West University underwent a major revitalization. Families latched on to its great location and were enchanted by the charming atmosphere of its beautiful tree-lines streets. Today, lavish brick homes have gradually replaced the original small bungalows. Yet many of the great bungalows remain and help to make it an eclectic neighborhood with something for everyone. West University is known both inside and outside Houston as a quality, family-friendly community. Some recent honors for the area include being named by Inside Houston Magazine as the “Hottest Neighborhood” in their annual Reader’s Choice Awards. Additionally, Business Development Magazine recently named West University as the one of the best small Texas cities to live in. This area shares the same great access and proximity to everything in Houston that other Inner Loop locations enjoy, but residents of West University feel that what sets their neighborhood apart are the conveniences and the community atmosphere. West University is proud of the strength of their local schools and supports the excellence that the school district strives to achieve for its students. West University is also minutes away from Reliant Park, The Galleria and a world class Museum district. Bellaire is a city within the metropolis of Houston and surrounds part of the Inner Loop (near the Galleria), or inner circle of the 610 Freeway. Bellaire offers a peaceful, small-town setting with the convenience of Houston’s “big city” attractions. Houston is one of the nation’s most promising cities with an enormous economy and rapidly growing international trade. The area inside of the Loop includes the Downtown area, River Oaks, the Hermann Park Zoo and museums as well as several universities. Roughly 16,000 people reside in Bellaire and maintain an active interest in their community. The central business district of Bellaire is undergoing some improvements combining new construction with the update of older buildings while still preserving its history. With five markers from the Texas Historical Society, history is a prominent part of Bellaire. Bellaire city management is known for its police and fire protection, library, public works, and parks and recreation facilities. Round all of this off with fine schools and the appeal of Houston and its no wonder people are pursuing Bellaire. The local neighborhoods are some of the most sought after in the region.