Communities in Cypress, Katy, and Fulshear Named as Top-Selling Master-Planned Communities of 2024
In its annual survey of the nation’s top-selling master-planned communities (MPCs), RCLCO has revealed the standout developments of 2024, with several communities in the Houston metropolitan area making the list. Master-planned communities have shown resilience despite challenges such as economic uncertainties and high mortgage rates, and developments in areas like Cypress, Katy, and Fulshear are leading the way.
This year marks the 31st consecutive edition of RCLCO’s rankings, which identify the most successful and influential MPCs in the U.S. The rankings are based on new home sales, as well as broader market performance, providing valuable insights into the housing industry. According to RCLCO, sales in the top 50 communities were just 2% below 2023 figures, signaling continued demand and strong performance despite external pressures such as the presidential election, severe weather events, and persistent affordability challenges.
The Houston metro area was once again a dominant force in the national rankings, contributing over 7,500 sales among the top 50 MPCs, representing 22% of all sales. This includes notable developments in Katy, Cypress, and Fulshear, where several communities continue to thrive.
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Top Houston-Area Communities
Among the highest-performing MPCs, the Katy-based Sunterra by Land Tejas/Starwood Land secured the 4th spot nationally, with 1,325 homes sold in 2024, up slightly from 1,293 in 2023. This increase highlights the strong appeal of the community’s amenities and its overall master-planned environment.
The Bridgeland community in Cypress, developed by Howard Hughes Corporation, ranked 7th with 938 homes sold, a slight dip from 985 in 2023. Despite this decrease, Bridgeland remains a key player in the region’s real estate market, offering residents a blend of nature, connectivity, and family-friendly features.
Also in Katy, Tamarron by D.R. Horton claimed the 15th spot with 737 sales in 2024, down from 774 homes in the previous year. Elyson, developed by Brookfield Properties, saw a strong increase in sales, with 491 homes sold in 2024, up 23% from 400 the previous year.
In Fulshear, Cross Creek Ranch, developed by Johnson Development Corp., secured the 50th spot with 376 homes sold, showing steady growth with a 1% increase from 371 homes in 2023. Jordan Ranch, also by Johnson Development Corp., earned an honorable mention with 357 homes sold, down slightly from 385 in 2023.
Why Master-Planned Communities Are Thriving
The resilience of these communities can be attributed to several factors, including the steady demand for new homes in well-designed, amenity-rich environments. Master-planned communities, which offer a comprehensive approach to residential development with a range of housing types, public spaces, and modern amenities, are increasingly seen as a desirable lifestyle choice.
"Despite external challenges, the appeal of master-planned communities is stronger than ever," said RCLCO’s report. "These communities provide a sense of belonging and a carefully curated environment that many homebuyers find appealing, particularly in the Houston area, which has seen robust demand."
As we move into 2025, RCLCO predicts that home sales in these communities will continue to be bolstered by the strong economic fundamentals, including low unemployment, wage growth, and moderating mortgage rates. Although affordability remains a challenge, the flexibility and adaptability of master-planned communities are expected to help developers navigate changing market conditions.
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Looking Ahead
Looking forward, the prospects for Houston-area developments like Sunterra, Bridgeland, and Cross Creek Ranch remain positive. As homebuilder sentiment improves and new home sales gain momentum, these MPCs are poised to continue thriving in the ever-evolving housing market. Additionally, new projects in the region are expected to further strengthen the position of master-planned communities as an essential part of the residential landscape in the Houston metro area.
For residents of Cypress, Katy, and Fulshear, the continued success of these communities reflects a broader trend of growth and development in suburban Texas. The combination of high-quality construction, top-tier amenities, and desirable locations ensures that these master-planned communities will remain top contenders for homebuyers looking to build their future in one of the nation’s most dynamic housing markets.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
