Sugar Land, TX is among the Top 100 Best Places To Live in the U.S.

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Sugar Land, TXBest Places to Live in the U.S. in 2024

Life in Sugar Land is sweet. In the heart of Texas, Sugar Land is a blend of southern charm and big-city convenience. From top-rated schools to a delicious dining scene, Sugar Land offers the ideal balance of comfort and conveniences.

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Sugar Land, TX

Why You’ll Love Living In Sugar Land, Texas

Sugar Land, Texas, might have you thinking about the country music duo, but that’s not where the city got its name. Sugar Land is known for being one of the more affluent and rapidly growing master-planned communities in the state. The population boomed between 1990 and 2000, perhaps because of its proximity to the job market in Houston. But Sugar Land offers plenty of quality amenities to locals, including family-friendly museums and attractions, plus numerous trails and parks. Foodies can enjoy everything from barbecue and burgers to Japanese and Korean.

Thinking of moving to Sugar Land, TX? Keep scrolling to find all the details about living in Sugar Land, including quick facts such as the population, median home value and property taxes. Plus, learn more about the cost of living and quality of life in Sugar Land, from the economy and job opportunities to weather, outdoor activities and things to do, including local restaurants and points of interest.

What Makes Sugar Land, TX, a Best Place to Live in 2024

Who wouldn’t want to live in a city called Sugar Land, TX? Life is undoubtedly sweet here, which is one of the reasons it’s one of the best places to live in the U.S. The city comes by its name naturally because it was once — you guessed it — a major sugar producer! 

But what makes life here particularly appealing is a low cost of living, a highly educated workforce, a business-friendly environment and excellent medical care. Located just 20 minutes away from downtown Houston, Sugar Land offers residents several master-planned communities that attract families who want to put down roots in a safe and friendly community and either work here or commute to Houston. With some 100,000 people, the city has its own share of prosperous biotech, insurance and manufacturing companies.

Amenities include more than 50 miles of walking, running and biking trails, greenways, golf clubs, lakes, a lively town square with restaurants and shops, and copious festivals, concerts and markets. Families enjoy attractions like Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center, Kidtropolis — yes, a kid-run city — and more. Entertainment is within reach at places like the Smart Financial Center, a state-of-the-art performance venue that can host up to 6,400 people, and Constellation Field, where you can watch the Space Cowboys minor league baseball team round the bases.  

Sugar Land, TX Quality of Life LivScore

0 1000 1000 846

Sugar Land, TX Top Categories

  • Health

  • Economy

  • Education

Sugar Land ranks highest for health, economy and education.

Weather and Outdoor Activities in Sugar Land, TX

What is the weather like in Sugar Land? 

Summers are hot and humid, with days surpassing 90 degrees, while winters are mild, with temperatures in the 60s from December through February. The average highs and lows are 93°F and 74°F (summer) and 65°F and 44°F (winter).

Does Sugar Land get a lot of snow?

The average annual snowfall in Sugar Land is so low that it is extremely rare for the area to receive any measurable snow.

Does Sugar Land get a lot of rain? 

The average annual rainfall in Sugar Land is around 50 inches per year. Rain is evenly distributed in Sugar Land but tends to be higher during spring and early fall.

How many sunny days does Sugar Land get?

Sugar Land averages 204 sunny days a year.

What are some things to do outside in Sugar Land?

Walk or bike along the trails in Sugar Land Memorial Park, situated along the Brazos River.

iStock/galitskaya
Monkey around on zip lines, jungle swings and obstacle courses at the Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park in Sugar Land, TX.

Things To Do in Sugar Land, TX

What is something free to do for fun in Sugar Land?

Kick up your feet at The Lawn at First Colony Mall, a green open-space concept where families can relax, play games or watch a movie on the big screen. In addition to movie screenings, The Lawn offers a variety of free events throughout the year, including yoga and live music.

What are some fun things to do with kids in Sugar Land?

Monkey around on zip lines, jungle swings and obstacle courses at the Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park.

What is the best open secret about Sugar Land?

It might be a secret to some that Sugar Land has a diverse and lively culinary scene. There are a wide range of restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, including the area’s signature Tex-Mex, that reflect the melting pot makeup of the locals.

Where do locals shop in Sugar Land?

Sugar Land has over 30 distinct shopping areas, from established retailers to local shops. Sugar Land Town Square is a mixed-use development that is a specialty shopping center and home to half a dozen international dining choices within one block. First Colony Mall stands out as a popular shopping destination, providing visitors with a cheerful blend of national retailers and quirky boutiques.

What is a fun restaurant in Sugar Land?

Japaneiro’s menu includes sushi boats, large-format rolls ideal for sharing with your friends, plus many vegan options.

Where is the best place for live music or performing arts in Sugar Land?

There are lots of choices for taking in shows and plays in Sugar Land, like Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land, Sugar Land Auditorium and Inspiration Stage. You can even find outdoor performances at Sugar Land Town Square and plenty of shows at local community theaters in the area.

What is the best coffee shop in Sugar Land?

Do yourself a favor and pair your cup of joe with a Danish, lemon bar or other sweet treat from Decadent Coffee and Dessert Bar. They also make their own gelato and have treats you can bring home for your pup!

The Local and State Economy in Sugar Land, TX

What are the three largest industries in Sugar Land?

Sugar Land’s largest industries are health care, oil and gas, and advanced manufacturing. Minute Maid, Accredo Packaging, Inc. and Champion X’s Chemical Technologies branch are headquartered in Sugar Land.

What is the sales tax rate in Sugar Land?

In 2024, the sales tax rate in Sugar Land is 8.25%.

Does Texas have a state income tax?

No, Texas does not have a state income tax.

Who are the major health care providers in Sugar Land?

Sugar Land is home to many health care providers, the largest of which are Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital and Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital.

What colleges and universities are in Sugar Land?

While there are no significant colleges or universities in Sugar Land, there are several higher-ed institutions near the city, including the University of Houston.

Weather in Sugar Land, TX

Average Temperatures

80 High / 60 Low

Average Annual Rainfall

50 Inches

Average Annual Snowfall

0 Inches

Quick Facts about Sugar Land, Texas

Median Home Value
$359,460
Median Property Tax
$4,660
Total Population
113,429
Average Commute
27 min
Median Household Income
$137,852
Median Rent per Month
$1,488

Map of Sugar Land, TX

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