Welcome to Chappell Hill
Chappell Hill, Texas – Community Overview & Real Estate Guide
Set along the scenic corridor between Houston and Austin, Chappell Hill offers a classic Texas small-town lifestyle with a strong sense of history, open-sky countryside, and a welcoming community feel. Known for its springtime bluebonnets, antique shopping, and a preserved historic core, the area appeals to buyers seeking a quieter pace while still staying connected to major employment and travel hubs.
Overview of Chappell Hill, TX
Chappell Hill is an unincorporated community in Washington County, positioned on U.S. Highway 290 with convenient access to nearby Brenham and College Station. The community’s character is defined by historic architecture, rolling pastureland, and seasonal festivals that celebrate local traditions. Housing often trends toward single-family homes and ranch-style properties, with lifestyle value tied to land, privacy, and easy weekend access to dining, shopping, and cultural events throughout the Brazos Valley and Greater Houston-Austin region.
| Key Facts about Chappell Hill, TX | |
|---|---|
| Area | ~622 sq mi (Washington County) |
| County | Washington County |
| Established | Mid-1800s settlement; community growth accelerated along regional trade routes |
| Population (recent est.) | ~35,800 (Washington County, 2020 Census) |
| Notable Nearby Towns | Brenham • Navasota • College Station • Hempstead |
| Signature Attractions | Historic Main Street character • seasonal wildflower viewing • antique & boutique shopping • local festivals and community events |
| Main Roads | U.S. Highway 290 • State Highway 105 (regional connections) |
With its historic charm, country-road scenery, and an easy drive to major Texas metros, Chappell Hill blends relaxed living with practical connectivity—an appealing setting for primary residences, second homes, and land-focused lifestyles.
Location & Connectivity in Chappell Hill, Texas
Chappell Hill is located in Washington County, Texas, along the U.S. Highway 290 corridor between Houston and Austin. The community sits amid rolling pastureland and historic farmland, offering a rural setting with direct highway access to nearby towns, universities, and major employment centers.
Daily transportation is car-dependent, reflecting the area’s country character. Regional travel is straightforward via Highway 290, while nearby cities such as Brenham, College Station, and Navasota provide expanded shopping, dining, healthcare, and higher education access. Major airports in Houston and Austin support long-distance and business travel.
| Connectivity & Transportation — Chappell Hill, TX | |
|---|---|
| Location Overview | Rural community in Washington County positioned along U.S. Highway 290, offering direct east–west connectivity between Houston and Austin through the Brazos Valley. |
| Nearby Towns & Cities |
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| Local Points of Interest |
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| Public Transportation | No fixed-route public transit. Transportation is primarily private vehicle–based, consistent with rural Washington County living. |
| Road Access & Highways |
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| Typical Drive Times* |
*Approximate, traffic-dependent
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| Parking | Ample on-site and street parking throughout the community. Residential properties typically include private driveways, acreage access, or barn parking. |
| Walking & Cycling | Walkable historic core near Main Street; recreational cycling common on low-traffic farm roads and scenic county routes. |
| Ride Services | Limited availability of ride-share services; personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation for residents. |
| Airport Access |
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| Accessibility | Flat terrain in town with generally easy access; rural properties may include gravel roads or private drives requiring standard vehicle clearance. |
Chappell Hill offers a balance of peaceful rural living and strategic regional access—ideal for those seeking open land, historic charm, and a manageable drive to Texas’s largest economic centers.
Chappell Hill Real Estate Market Trends (2025)
Chappell Hill’s real estate market is defined by its rural charm, historic character, and availability of land, appealing to buyers seeking space, privacy, and a slower pace within reach of major Texas metros. As of mid–late 2025, the local median home value is estimated in the mid-$400K range, with pricing influenced heavily by acreage, improvements, and proximity to U.S. Highway 290. Homes typically remain on the market longer than in nearby cities, reflecting a more deliberate, lifestyle-driven buyer pool. Demand remains steady for small ranches, custom homes, and historic properties, supported by regional growth from Brenham, College Station, and the Houston–Austin corridor.
| Property Type | Median Price (USD) | Price per Acre / Sq.Ft | Typical Rent (USD/month) | Rental Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| In-Town Historic Home | $375,000 (est.) | $185 / sq.ft (est.) | $1,600 | 4.8% (est.) |
| Modern Single-Family Home | $465,000 (est.) | $195 / sq.ft (est.) | $1,950 | 4.6% (est.) |
| Small Acreage Property (3–10 ac) | $650,000 (est.) | $40K–$65K / acre | $2,400 | 4.2% (est.) |
| Ranch / Estate Property | $1,100,000+ (est.) | $30K–$55K / acre | $3,200+ | 3.5–4.0% (est.) |
Methodology & Notes: Estimates reflect Washington County and Chappell Hill–area transactions, adjusted for acreage, home size, and rural utility considerations. Rental figures represent long-term leasing averages; short-term rentals are limited and subject to county regulations. Market performance varies by land quality, fencing, water access, and improvements.
Lifestyle in Chappell Hill
Life in Chappell Hill blends small-town heritage with open Texas countryside. Set along the U.S. 290 corridor between Houston and Austin, the community is known for historic architecture, antique shopping, seasonal festivals, and a pace that favors front-porch evenings over traffic. Residents enjoy easy access to Brenham for everyday conveniences while staying close to wide-open land, rolling pastures, and scenic backroads.
Location in Chappell Hill
Historic community in Washington County, positioned on U.S. 290 with convenient access to Brenham, College Station, and the Houston–Austin corridor. Backroads and ranch lanes define local navigation.
Community in Chappell Hill
Close-knit and tradition-forward. Expect historic homes, church socials, local markets, and well-loved festivals that draw visitors while keeping a true small-town feel year-round.
Dining in Chappell Hill
Locally owned cafés, barbecue, and weekend stops anchor the dining scene, with expanded options a short drive away in Brenham. Farm-to-table pop-ups and seasonal events add variety.
Education in Chappell Hill
Served through area public school districts in Washington County, with private and faith-based options within driving distance. Families often compare campuses in nearby Brenham and surrounding communities.
Housing in Chappell Hill
Mix of historic in-town residences, newer custom builds, and acreage properties. Buyers often prioritize land usability, fencing, outbuildings, and water access when evaluating rural homesites.
Transportation in Chappell Hill
Daily life is car-dependent, with U.S. 290 as the primary connector. Typical errands and services are handled in Brenham, while weekend access to Houston and Austin supports commuting and second-home ownership.
Climate in Chappell Hill
Humid subtropical: hot summers, mild winters, and spring storm season. Rural properties benefit from practical planning for drainage, shade, and wildfire awareness during drier periods.
Amenities in Chappell Hill
Antique stores, local shops, and small-town services are complemented by broader amenities in Brenham. Outdoor recreation centers around open land, county roads, and nearby parks.
Demographics in Chappell Hill
Primarily full-time residents and landowners, with a steady presence of weekend visitors and second-home buyers. Many residents value privacy, community ties, and proximity to regional employment centers.
Pros in Chappell Hill
Historic charm, quiet rural setting, acreage opportunities, and strong corridor access via U.S. 290. A compelling fit for buyers seeking space, character, and a manageable drive to major cities.
Cons in Chappell Hill
Limited in-town inventory, fewer walkable daily services, and longer drives for medical specialists, major shopping, and entertainment. Rural due diligence can include wells, septic, fencing, and road maintenance.
Outdoor Activities in Chappell Hill
Country drives, cycling on rural roads, small-town festivals, and nearby parks for picnics and trails. Landowners often enjoy gardening, horseback activities, and wide-open outdoor living at home.
Chappell Hill’s lifestyle is defined by heritage, land, and simplicity—historic charm, open skies, and an easy rhythm supported by quick access to Brenham and the broader Houston–Austin corridor.
Amenities in Chappell Hill, TX
Chappell Hill offers a relaxed Hill Country–meets–Prairie lifestyle with convenient access to everyday essentials in nearby Brenham, plus easy weekend escapes to parks, lakes, and seasonal events. Below are a few local highlights that support comfortable day-to-day living.
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Hospitals & Clinics Near Chappell Hill
Brenham • College Station • Regional AccessResidents typically use full-service healthcare in nearby Brenham, with expanded specialty and hospital options in the Bryan–College Station region and Greater Houston.- Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Brenham — main hospital and emergency care
- Urgent care and primary care clinics — commonly found in Brenham’s retail/medical corridors
- Specialty care (cardiology, orthopedics, imaging) — broader selection in College Station / Bryan
- Major medical centers — wider Houston area for advanced specialties
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Shopping & Markets Near Chappell Hill
Brenham • Round Top • Local Farm StandsDaily essentials are typically handled in Brenham, while Chappell Hill and nearby towns add antique finds, seasonal markets, and locally made goods.- Downtown Brenham — local boutiques, restaurants, and historic main-street shopping
- Grocery and essentials — Brenham-area supermarkets and big-box convenience
- Round Top area — antiques and destination shopping during seasonal market weeks
- Roadside farm stands — seasonal produce and local goods in Washington County
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Fitness & Recreation Around Chappell Hill
Trails • Lakes • Scenic BackroadsOutdoor living is a major draw, with lake days, state parks, and quiet roads ideal for cycling and scenic drives. Gym and studio options are most common in Brenham and College Station.- Lake Somerville area — boating, fishing, and lakeside recreation
- Washington County backroads — popular for cycling and weekend drives
- Local parks and community spaces — small-town outdoor time close to home
- Gyms and fitness studios — broader selection in Brenham / College Station
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Arts, History & Seasonal Events
Historic Sites • Gardens • Springtime TraditionsChappell Hill is known for its historic character and seasonal experiences—especially wildflower season—supported by nearby museums, gardens, and small-town festivals.- Chappell Hill Bluebonnet Festival — springtime celebration tied to peak wildflower viewing
- Washington-on-the-Brazos area — Texas history and heritage outings nearby
- Antique Rose Emporium (Brenham) — destination garden strolls and seasonal blooms
- Blue Bell Creameries (Brenham) — iconic local stop for visitors and residents
Schools & Preschools in Chappell Hill
Families in Chappell Hill are primarily served by Brenham Independent School District (Brenham ISD), with additional public options nearby in Burton ISD and Bellville ISD depending on property location and transfer availability. Most families choose campuses in the greater Brenham area for full K–12 pathways, plus a mix of private and faith-based options within an easy drive.
Local programs commonly emphasize college & career readiness, athletics, fine arts, and CTE pathways, with early-learning options in Brenham and surrounding communities. Always confirm current attendance zones, open enrollment/transfer policies, and program availability before enrolling.
| School / Preschool | Type | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alton Elementary School | Public (K–4) — Brenham ISD | Brenham (near Chappell Hill) | Neighborhood elementary with core academics, enrichment, and family-focused campus events. |
| Brenham Elementary School | Public (K–4) — Brenham ISD | Brenham (near Chappell Hill) | Full-service elementary campus offering a well-rounded foundation with student support services. |
| Krause Elementary School | Public (K–4) — Brenham ISD | Brenham (near Chappell Hill) | Strong elementary program with bilingual/early-learning support options on select tracks. |
| Brenham Middle School | Public (5–6) — Brenham ISD | Brenham | Electives and core academics designed for the upper-elementary transition years; athletics and activities expand by grade. |
| Brenham Junior High School | Public (7–8) — Brenham ISD | Brenham | Expanded course offerings, fine arts, and competitive athletics with a clear pathway into Brenham High School. |
| Brenham High School | Public (9–12) — Brenham ISD | Brenham | Comprehensive high school with CTE pathways, athletics, fine arts, and college-ready coursework. |
| Burton ISD (PK–12 campus) | Public (PK–12) — Burton ISD | Burton (near Chappell Hill) | Small-district environment with close community feel; families often appreciate lower campus scale and local events. |
| Brenham Christian Academy | Private (PK–12) | Brenham | Faith-based academics with smaller class sizes; athletics and student activities in a structured setting. |
| Brenham Early Childhood Learning Center | Public Pre-K — Brenham ISD | Brenham | District early-learning option focused on kindergarten readiness, social development, and foundational literacy. |
| Local preschools & early-learning programs (Brenham / Bellville area) | Private Preschool | Near Chappell Hill | Church-based and independent programs offering play-based learning, part-day schedules, and pre-K readiness. |
Districts: Brenham ISD (primary), with nearby options in Burton ISD and Bellville ISD depending on address and policies. Tip: Attendance zones, transfers, and specialty programs can change—always verify boundaries, openings, transportation, and admissions requirements directly with each school or district.
Investment Potential in Chappell Hill, TX
Chappell Hill is a historic rural community in Washington County, positioned between Houston and Austin along the Highway 290 corridor. Known for its preserved architecture, rolling pastureland, and small-town character, the area attracts buyers seeking acreage, weekend retreats, and long-term land holdings rather than high-density development. Property values have shown steady appreciation driven by limited inventory, lifestyle demand, and proximity to Brenham, College Station, and major Texas metros.
Why Chappell Hill? Investment appeal here centers on land scarcity, heritage preservation, and corridor growth. Buyers are drawn to ranch properties, historic homes, and small-acreage tracts that benefit from lower density zoning and fewer development pressures. As Central Texas continues to expand outward, Chappell Hill remains well-positioned for gradual appreciation without losing its rural identity.
| Market Segment | Typical Price Range | Trend | Days on Market |
|---|---|---|---|
| Historic Homes | $550K – $900K | Gradual appreciation | 30–60 days |
| Single-Family Homes | $450K – $750K | Stable demand | 35–70 days |
| Small Acreage (5–20 ac) | $700K – $1.5M+ | High interest | 45–90 days |
| Ranches / Large Tracts | $2M+ | Long-term hold | Varies |
Chappell Hill favors patient, long-term investors rather than short-term speculation. Properties tend to attract buyers who value land, privacy, and architectural character, resulting in steadier pricing and fewer market swings compared to urban Texas markets.
Key Investment Highlights:
- Limited housing and land supply supports consistent long-term appreciation
- Strong demand for acreage, ranch properties, and historic homes
- Highway 290 growth improves accessibility while preserving rural character
- Lower volatility compared to metro Houston and Austin markets
- Appeal to second-home buyers, retirees, and lifestyle-focused investors
For buyers seeking land-backed value, heritage properties, and a conservative growth profile, Chappell Hill offers a compelling investment environment rooted in scarcity, history, and Central Texas expansion trends.
Thinking About Moving to Chappell Hill?
Set among the rolling hills of Washington County, Chappell Hill offers a lifestyle that blends quiet countryside living with a storied Texas sense of place. Its historic downtown, antique shops, and seasonal festivals create a small-town rhythm, while open pastureland and oak-dotted scenery keep daily life feeling spacious and unhurried.
Housing ranges from classic homes near the town center to modern builds and acreage properties outside of town. Buyers often prioritize land, privacy, and architectural charm—features that can influence pricing, especially for improved tracts, equestrian-ready setups, and homes with views. If you’re considering income potential, be sure to review Washington County rules and any applicable short-term rental requirements.
Day-to-day living is anchored by local dining, weekend markets, and easy access to Brenham and College Station for expanded shopping, healthcare, and entertainment. Many residents enjoy scenic drives along the Highway 290 corridor, outdoor time on nearby lakes and parks, and a calendar of community events that reflect the area’s heritage.
With its combination of character, land opportunities, and convenient access to major Texas metros, Chappell Hill remains a desirable destination for full-time living, weekend retreats, and long-term property ownership.
Explore Chappell Hill Real Estate →Frequently Asked Questions about Chappell Hill, Texas
- What is the cost of living in Chappell Hill, TX?
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- Single-family homes typically range from the mid-$300Ks to $700K+
- Acreage and ranch-style properties can exceed $1M depending on land size and improvements
- Overall living costs remain lower than major Texas metros
Pricing varies based on land, historic value, and proximity to Highway 290. - Is Chappell Hill a good place for long-term property ownership?
- Yes. Limited inventory, historic preservation, and steady interest from buyers seeking land and small-town living support long-term value stability rather than short-term volatility.
- What types of homes are common in Chappell Hill?
- The area features historic homes near downtown, modern single-family residences, farmhouses, and larger acreage properties suited for equestrian or agricultural use.
- Does Chappell Hill allow short-term rentals?
- Short-term rental regulations are governed at the county level. Buyers should confirm Washington County requirements, zoning, and any deed restrictions before purchasing for rental use.
- What is daily life like in Chappell Hill?
- Life is relaxed and community-focused, with antique shops, local dining, seasonal festivals, and scenic drives defining the rhythm. Many residents balance rural living with access to nearby towns.
- How far is Chappell Hill from major cities?
- Chappell Hill sits along the Highway 290 corridor, approximately:
- 15 minutes to Brenham
- 45 minutes to College Station
- 75 minutes to Houston
- 90 minutes to Austin
- What schools serve Chappell Hill?
- Students are primarily served by Brenham ISD and surrounding school districts, with additional private and charter options available in nearby communities.
Chappell Hill offers a rare blend of history, land, and small-town character—appealing to buyers seeking space, heritage, and a slower pace of Texas living.
