Is Brookshire Safe, Pros and cons of living in Brookshire
Brookshire, Texas, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and proximity to a major metropolitan area, making it an appealing location for those seeking a balance between a relaxed lifestyle and access to urban amenities. Situated just west of Houston, this community provides a distinct atmosphere with a growing presence of businesses and a developing economic landscape.
The town’s strategic location along Interstate 10 positions it within a significant commercial corridor, attracting a variety of industries and contributing to its ongoing development. Brookshire is named in honor of Nathan Brookshire, a prominent landowner and a captain in the Texian Army who participated in the storming of Bexar in 1835 (City of Brookshire, Texas). This historical connection adds a layer of depth to the town’s identity, blending its past with its forward-looking growth initiatives.
Is it Safe to Live in Brookshire?
Brookshire’s overall crime rate is reported to be slightly higher than the average U.S. city, with a C- grade indicating this trend (Niche). While the general crime rate is higher than the national average, specific neighborhoods within Brookshire offer varying levels of safety, with residents often considering the southeast part of the city to be the safest (AreaVibes, Niche). Your likelihood of being a crime victim can range significantly, from 1 in 15 in the northeast to 1 in 62 in the southeast (AreaVibes).
Violent crime rates in Brookshire are generally lower than the national average, with an annual rate of 104.3 per 100,000 residents, which is 1.8% below the national average (FBI Crime Data Explorer). However, specific types of crime, such as rape, have a significantly higher rate than the national average (FBI Crime Data Explorer). Property crime rates are substantially lower than the national average, standing at 89.4% below it (FBI Crime Data Explorer).
Cost of Living in Brookshire
Brookshire presents a cost of living that is notably lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. Overall living expenses in Brookshire are approximately 17% lower than the national average (Payscale). This affordability extends across various categories, including housing, utilities, transportation, and groceries.
Housing expenses in Brookshire are particularly favorable, being around 58% lower than the national average (Payscale). The median home value in Brookshire is $159,300 (US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates). Renters also benefit from lower costs, with the median rent for a two-bedroom apartment being $1,150 per month, compared to the national average of $1,430 (City of Brookshire, Texas). Grocery prices are also slightly below the national average, with a Grocery Cost Index of 99 compared to the US index of 100 (City of Brookshire, Texas).
Housing Market and Rental Options
The housing market in Brookshire offers a mix of ownership and rental opportunities, generally at more affordable rates than many other parts of the country. The homeownership rate in Brookshire is approximately 51.2% (US Census Bureau, American Community Survey). The median home value is $159,300 (US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates), and the median property tax is $1,838 (Applied Geographic Solutions). This makes Brookshire a more accessible market for homebuyers compared to many other Texas cities (Niche).
For those seeking rental properties, Brookshire provides a range of options. The average rent for a home in Brookshire is around $2,195 per month as of May 2026 (Zillow). Townhouses tend to be more affordable, with a median rent of $1,450, while condos and single-family homes are typically more expensive (Homes.com). The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,467, and a two-bedroom apartment is around $1,452 (Apartments.com).
Job Market and Major Employers
Brookshire’s job market is influenced by its proximity to Houston and the presence of significant companies within and near its vicinity. The average salary in Brookshire is approximately $41,000 annually, or $19.71 per hour (Zippia). However, other sources indicate a higher average salary, with figures around $48,493 per year ($23.31/hour) for Brookshire, TX (City of Brookshire, Texas). The median household income is reported at $65,934 (US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates).
The unemployment rate in Brookshire has fluctuated, with some reports indicating it is higher than the national average (AreaVibes), while others list it as 4.6% (US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates) or 7.9% (City of Brookshire, Texas). Major employers in the area include large retail and distribution companies such as Costco Wholesale, Amazon.com, and Ross Dress For Less (Indeed.com). Tesla is also establishing a significant presence with a “Megafactory” expected to bring at least 1,500 advanced manufacturing jobs to the area (Houston Style Magazine).
Climate and Weather Patterns
Brookshire experiences a subtropical climate characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. The average high temperature in the summer months can reach around 90 degrees Fahrenheit, with August being the hottest month, averaging a high of 95°F and a low of 74°F (myPerfectWeather). Winter temperatures are more moderate, with January seeing average highs around 63°F and lows of 42°F (myPerfectWeather).
The region receives a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year, with an annual average of approximately 50 inches (myPerfectWeather, Weather Records). June is typically the wettest month, while February is the driest (Weather Records). Hurricane season in Texas runs from June through November, so residents and visitors should monitor weather reports during this period (Discovering Brookshire, TX).
School Ratings and Educational Opportunities
The educational landscape in Brookshire presents a mixed picture, with some schools performing well and others facing challenges. Bryant Elementary School is recognized as a top-performing school, ranking in the top 12% of Texas elementary schools with a 4-star rating (SchoolDigger.com). Its test scores in reading and math exceed district and state averages (SchoolDigger.com).
Conversely, schools within the Royal Independent School District, including Royal High School, appear to be underperforming. Royal High School has consistently ranked in the bottom quarter of Texas high schools, with low proficiency rates in Algebra I compared to state and nearby schools (SchoolDigger.com). The district itself is ranked poorly among Texas school districts (SchoolDigger.com).
Demographics and Population
Brookshire is home to a growing population, with projections indicating continued growth in the coming years. As of the latest data, Brookshire has a population of approximately 5,495 residents (US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates; Niche). The median age in Brookshire is around 29 years (US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates).
The demographic composition of Brookshire is diverse, with a significant Hispanic population making up about 61.7% of residents, followed by Black or African American residents at 22.1%, and White residents at 14.4% (US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates). A notable portion of Brookshire’s residents, around 24%, were born outside the country (US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates).