Is Clute Safe, Pros and cons of living in Clute
Clute, Texas, situated in Brazoria County, offers a unique blend of industrial proximity and a more relaxed pace of life, making it an appealing option for those seeking affordability and a connection to the Gulf Coast. The city’s economy is significantly influenced by the surrounding industrial corridor, providing a solid base of employment opportunities. Residents often find Clute to be a practical place to live, balancing the demands of a working-class environment with the advantages of a lower cost of living compared to larger metropolitan areas.
The community is characterized by its diverse population and a median age that suggests a mix of young families and established residents. Clute’s strategic location provides access to both natural recreational areas and the vibrant cultural scene of the nearby Houston metropolitan area. Understanding the various facets of life in Clute, from safety and cost of living to employment and education, is crucial for anyone considering a move to this Texas city.
Is it Safe to Live in Clute?
Clute’s crime statistics present a mixed picture, with some indicators suggesting a higher risk than the national average. Violent crime rates in Clute are reported to be higher than in many other communities of similar size across America. The chance of being a victim of a violent crime, such as robbery or assault, is estimated at 3 per one thousand inhabitants (NeighborhoodScout). Property crime also presents a concern, with a rate of 17 per one thousand population (NeighborhoodScout).
When combining both violent and property crimes, the overall chance of becoming a victim in Clute is approximately 1 in 48. The city’s crime rate is higher than 85% of Texas cities of all sizes (NeighborhoodScout). Specifically, Clute has a notably high rate of motor vehicle theft compared to national averages (NeighborhoodScout). While some sources indicate a safety grade of C+ with the overall crime rate near the national average (DoorProfit), others, citing FBI data, suggest a violent crime rate significantly above the national average (PlainCrime).
Housing Costs and Real Estate
The housing market in Clute offers a more affordable entry point compared to many other parts of Texas and the nation. The median home value in Clute was approximately $190,207 as of March 2026, showing a slight decrease of 1.0% over the past year (Zillow). Another report indicates a median listing price of $199,450 (Realtor.com). Property values have seen an increase, with the median property value reported at $271,700 in 2024, an 8.2% rise from the previous year (Data USA).
Renting in Clute is also a viable option, with average rent prices varying by source. One report states the average rent is $1,175 per month (Zillow), while another indicates an average rent of $931 for an apartment (RentCafe). A different source lists the median rent at $799 last month, showing a slight decrease month-over-month (Redfin). The homeownership rate in Clute is around 49.2% (Data USA), which is lower than the national average, suggesting a significant portion of the population opts for renting.
Economic Landscape and Job Market
Clute’s economy is robust, driven by key industries that provide substantial employment opportunities. Manufacturing is a dominant sector, employing a significant number of residents, followed by healthcare and social assistance, and construction (Data USA). The average annual pay in Brazoria County, which encompasses Clute, is $68,223, with manufacturing jobs averaging over $134,000 and construction positions averaging more than $91,000 (Texas Ally Real Estate Group).
The average salary in Clute, Texas, is reported to be around $71,281 per year, or $34 per hour (ERI SalaryExpert). However, other sources provide different figures, with a median wage of $41,000 per year and an average salary of $42,585 (ZipRecruiter). The unemployment rate in Clute is reported at 8.6% (Point2Homes), which is higher than the generally considered healthy rate of 4% to 5% (Point2Homes). This figure represents the portion of the workforce actively seeking employment.
Demographics and Diversity
Clute is a city with a diverse population, reflecting a rich cultural tapestry. The Hispanic population constitutes the largest ethnic group, making up 57.9% of the residents (Data USA, Point2Homes). White residents represent approximately 29.1% of the population, followed by the Black or African American population at 8% (Data USA, Point2Homes). Other racial and ethnic groups are present in smaller percentages.
The city’s population is relatively young, with a median age of 30 years (Data USA, Point2Homes). For every 100 females, there are approximately 92.1 males (Data USA). As of 2024, about 13.8% of Clute residents were born outside the United States, a figure comparable to the national average (Data USA). The majority of residents are U.S. citizens, with a citizenship rate of 93.7% (Data USA).
Climate and Weather Patterns
Clute experiences a climate characterized by long, hot summers and short, cool winters, with a generally wet and partly cloudy atmosphere throughout the year. The temperature typically fluctuates between 47°F and 91°F, rarely dropping below 35°F or exceeding 94°F (Weather and Climate). Summers are particularly hot and humid, with daily high temperatures often surpassing 85°F from late May through late September (Weather and Climate).
The hottest month is typically July, with average highs around 90°F and lows of 76°F (Weather and Climate). Winters are cooler, with average daily high temperatures below 68°F from December to February. January usually sees average lows of 48°F and highs of 63°F (Weather and Climate). Clute receives a significant amount of rainfall annually, averaging around 51 inches (Weather and Climate, Time and Date). September is generally the wettest month, with an average of 10.9 days experiencing precipitation (Weather and Climate).
Education and School System
The educational landscape in Clute is primarily served by the Brazosport Independent School District. Clute Intermediate School, which caters to grades 5-8, has received a “C” rating from the Texas Education Agency (Texas Tribune Schools Explorer). This rating indicates acceptable performance, with specific categories like Student Achievement and School Progress receiving “C” grades, while “Closing the Gaps” received a “D” (Texas Tribune Schools Explorer).
The school has a student-teacher ratio of 14 to 1 (Niche). Proficiency rates in math and reading at Clute Intermediate are areas for improvement, with figures such as 39% proficiency in math and 47% in reading (Niche). The school serves a high percentage of economically disadvantaged students, with 66.8% qualifying for such programs (Texas Tribune Schools Explorer). Further educational opportunities are available through Brazosport College, located nearby (City of Clute).
Cost of Living
Clute stands out for its affordability, with a cost of living that is notably lower than the national average. Overall, the cost of living in Clute is estimated to be 15% lower than the national average (Payscale). Housing expenses are a significant contributor to this affordability, being 49% lower than the national average (Payscale). Utility prices are also lower, at 9% below the national average, and transportation costs are 4% lower (Payscale).
The median home price in Clute is around $272,391, with a median rent of approximately $817.49 per month (Payscale). Another report places the median rent for an apartment at $931 (RentCafe). The cost of living index for Clute is -17% less than the national average (ERI Economic Research Institute), further emphasizing its affordability. Texas itself is a tax-friendly state, notably lacking a state income tax, which can further enhance disposable income for residents (Salary.com).
Major Employers and Economic Opportunities
The economic foundation of Clute is closely tied to the industrial corridor of Brazoria County, with manufacturing and related sectors being major drivers of employment. Key industries include manufacturing, healthcare and social assistance, and construction (Data USA). The average annual pay in Brazoria County reflects high-wage opportunities in manufacturing, exceeding $134,000, and construction, over $91,000 (Texas Ally Real Estate Group).
While specific major employers within Clute city limits are not detailed, the presence of large retail and service companies like McDonald’s, Dollar General, and Kroger indicates a diverse job market (Indeed, Lensa). Amazon, Kroger, and Oracle are listed among companies in the broader Clute area (ZipRecruiter). The industrial base, including petrochemical facilities, offers significant employment prospects for skilled workers and tradespeople in the region.