Is Angleton Safe, Pros and cons of living in Angleton
Angleton, Texas, offers a blend of small-town charm and proximity to a major metropolitan area, making it an appealing option for those seeking a balance between community living and access to urban amenities. The city is situated in Brazoria County, approximately 50 miles south of Houston, providing residents with a relatively lower cost of living compared to its larger neighbor while still benefiting from its economic and cultural opportunities.
The community is experiencing steady growth, with its population projected to continue increasing. This expansion is supported by a developing local economy and ongoing housing development. Angleton’s strategic location, coupled with its community-focused atmosphere, draws a diverse range of residents, from families to working professionals, looking for a place to settle and thrive.
Is it Safe to Live in Angleton?
Angleton’s crime rate is a subject with varying reports, presenting a complex picture for potential residents. While some sources indicate that the overall crime rate is lower than the national average, others suggest it is higher than many U.S. cities. Specifically, violent crime rates in Angleton are reported to be higher than the national average in some analyses.
Property crime rates in Angleton are also a concern, with some reports indicating an above-average chance of becoming a victim compared to other communities nationwide. However, other data suggests that Angleton’s crime rate is 43% lower than the national average, with violent crimes being 29.3% lower and property crimes 45.9% lower than the U.S. average. It is important to note that crime rates can be significantly impacted by a city’s smaller population, where a few incidents can skew per capita statistics.
Housing Costs and Availability
The housing market in Angleton presents a more affordable alternative to many larger Texas cities, including Houston. The median home value in Angleton is around $215,000, a figure that has seen a slight decrease year-over-year. This median home price is comparable to other recent estimates, with some sources reporting it at $212,900 and others at $210,029.
Rental costs in Angleton are also generally lower than the national average. The average rent is approximately $883 per month, which is about 46.2% lower than the national average. Housing prices are approximately 13% cheaper than in Houston, contributing to a lower overall cost of living. The homeownership rate in Angleton is around 67%.
Job Market and Economy
Angleton’s economy is supported by a variety of industries, with construction, manufacturing, and educational services being among the most common employment sectors for residents. The average annual salary in Angleton is reported to be around $50,000, with an hourly rate of approximately $24.04. However, other sources place the average annual salary lower, around $42,383, with most salaries ranging between $30,531 and $52,325.
The unemployment rate in Angleton is notably low, reported at 2%. This figure is significantly lower than both the national and state averages, suggesting a robust job market for those living in the area. Major employers in Angleton include large retail chains like Walmart and Kroger, as well as other service-oriented companies.
Climate and Weather Patterns
Angleton experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by long, hot, and oppressive summers, and short, cool, and windy winters. The temperature typically ranges from 46°F to 91°F throughout the year, with temperatures rarely falling below 32°F or exceeding 95°F. The hottest months are July and August, with average highs around 91°F to 93°F and lows in the mid-70s.
The city receives an average annual rainfall of about 52 to 56 inches, with September being the wettest month. Angleton has a significant number of wet days throughout the year, particularly from May to September. Snowfall is rare, with an average annual snowfall of 0 inches. The city experiences approximately 183 days of comfortable weather per year, with the most pleasant periods being from February to April and mid-October to December.
Education and School Systems
Angleton is served by the Angleton Independent School District (ISD), which is rated as a B+ district overall. The district has approximately 7,068 students in grades PK-12, with a student-teacher ratio of 18 to 1. State test scores indicate that 49% of students are proficient in math and 55% in reading.
Several elementary schools within the district, such as Westside Elementary and Frontier Elementary, are highly rated and consistently outperform state averages in math and reading proficiency. Angleton High School’s proficiency scores are lower, with 31% in math and 47% in reading. The district is recognized for its diversity and athletic programs, ranking among the top in Texas for these categories.
Demographics and Population
Angleton is home to a population of approximately 20,000 to 21,000 residents, with projections indicating continued growth. The city’s population is diverse, with White residents making up the largest demographic group, followed by Hispanic and Black or African American residents. A significant majority of Angleton’s residents are U.S. citizens, with a high percentage of those born within the country.
The median age in Angleton is around 37.3 years, indicating a mix of younger families and established residents. The average household size is approximately 2.8 people. The median household income in Angleton is reported to be around $86,712, with a poverty rate of about 7.3% of families.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Angleton is generally lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for many individuals and families. Overall living expenses are estimated to be about 15% lower than the national average. Housing costs are a significant contributor to these savings, being approximately 44% lower than the national average.
Other essential expenses are also manageable. Utility costs are slightly below the national average, and transportation expenses are about 8% lower. Grocery prices are close to the national average, but many local goods and services can be found at lower prices. Healthcare costs are also slightly lower than the national average.