The story of this market
The typical home in ZIP 77488 sells for about $225,000, or $170 per square foot.
Prices are down 2.5% from a year ago, which gives buyers more room to negotiate. Homes take about 65 days to sell, which is slow. HUD's fair market rent for a two-bedroom is $1,078 a month.
ZIP 77488 — Wharton
The 77488 housing market is currently stable, characterized by moderate price growth and a balanced inventory level. Demand is driven by local residents and those seeking affordable rural living, with limited volatility compared to larger urban markets. The market remains accessible for families and first-time buyers, supported by steady employment in the local education and healthcare sectors.
This ZIP is well-suited for families and retirees seeking a quiet, affordable rural lifestyle with access to essential services. It also appeals to commuters who prefer a slower pace of life while maintaining a connection to the broader regional economy.
Median prices moved down 2.5% year over year.
Homes spend a median of 65 days on market with 5.5 months of supply — a balanced-paced market.
15% of listings have cut prices · homes sell at 96.5% of asking — demand is running ahead of supply.
no recorded foreclosure-ledger notices (0.0 per 10,000 residents) · unemployment 4.6% · poverty 10.9% — a stable, low-distress profile.
Researched annual trajectory for this ZIP, from published historical series
Solid: researched ten-year history · dotted: 1 / 3 / 5-year projection extended from the historical 6.7%/yr trend — a deterministic estimate, not a published forecast or guarantee.
Median annual property tax paid on this ZIP's residential parcels
Solid: researched ten-year history · dotted: 1 / 3 / 5-year projection extended from the historical 5.6%/yr trend — a deterministic estimate, not a published forecast or guarantee.
versus the prior ACS vintage
in-migration and out-migration balanced
ZCTA 77488, Wharton County TX
Crime rates in Wharton are generally consistent with regional averages for rural Texas, with property crime being the primary concern. Local law enforcement maintains a stable presence, and the area is considered relatively safe compared to larger metropolitan hubs.
Schools in the area are primarily served by the Wharton Independent School District, which provides a standard public education curriculum. Performance ratings are generally moderate, reflecting the district's focus on community-based learning and student support.
The area is subject to flood risks associated with the Colorado River basin, necessitating flood insurance for many properties. Residents are encouraged to maintain updated coverage due to the potential for severe weather and heavy rainfall events.
Economic momentum is driven by local agriculture, manufacturing, and proximity to the Houston metropolitan area. Infrastructure development remains focused on maintaining regional connectivity and supporting small-scale commercial expansion.
Composed from the ARED governance burden registry — tier-native tax structure (state + county + city + special districts), never averaged. State (Texas) — Senior (65+) and Disabled Homestead Exemption and School Tax Ceiling: Grants an additional mandatory $10,000 exemption from ISD appraised value (Taxable Value_ISD = Appraised Value - $100,000 - $10,000) and establishes an absolute statutory tax freeze (school tax ceiling): total ISD property taxes cannot exceed the dollar ceiling established in the… State (Texas) — General Residence Homestead Exemption and 10% Valuation Growth Cap: Imposes mandatory state-level valuation deductions and growth limitations on the qualifying homestead: (1) Mandates a $100,000 deduction from appraised value for independent school district (ISD) maintenance and operations/debt taxation: Taxable Value_ISD = Appraised Value - $100… State (Texas) — Ad Valorem Real Property Taxation and Assessment Ratio: Mandates ad valorem appraisal of all real property at 100% of fair market value as of January 1 each tax year (Assessment Ratio = 1.00).
Commuting primarily involves personal vehicle travel via US-59, providing access to the Houston employment core. Public transit options are limited, making the area most suitable for those comfortable with longer drive times.
The area features local parks, community centers, and proximity to the Colorado River for outdoor activities. Shopping and dining are concentrated in the historic downtown area, providing essential services within a short distance.
The rental market is characterized by steady demand for single-family homes and modest apartment complexes. Vacancy rates remain low, and rent growth has been stable, reflecting the area's affordability compared to nearby urban centers.
The local economy is anchored by agriculture, education, and healthcare services. It serves as a regional hub for Wharton County, with a mix of small businesses and public sector employers.
Transportation is heavily reliant on private vehicles, with US-59 serving as the primary artery. Public transit infrastructure is minimal, reflecting the rural nature of the county.
Development is focused on residential infill and small-scale commercial projects within the city limits. There is a continued emphasis on maintaining the area's historic character while supporting growth.
The Wharton County Appraisal District manages property assessments, focusing on annual market value updates to ensure equitable taxation across the county.
Parcels are subject to various special districts, including school districts, emergency services districts, and potential drainage or utility districts depending on the specific location.
Property insurance premiums are influenced by the area's flood risk profile and proximity to the Gulf Coast. Market health is stable, though homeowners should expect to factor hazard coverage into their budgets.
Data retrieved from Census Reporter and Data Commons for ZCTA 77488.
Public schools whose reported address is in this area (NCES). Not attendance boundaries — schools that serve residents may sit outside it. Check the district's address locator for assignment.
Provides recreational space and community event facilities.
Offers fishing and outdoor leisure opportunities for residents.
Historic district featuring local businesses and restaurants.
Key-figure check: no independent anchor retained yet — first-researched cycles establish the anchor baseline this pass.