$200 per month. This is a common level of HOA fees seen in Houston townhome communities. In popular areas, fees can exceed $400 per month. While this number may seem unfamiliar, it becomes clearer when compared to the median HOA fee across Houston, which is only $67 per month.

Houston's overall average fee is low primarily because of the high proportion of single-family homes; however, the situation is different when looking specifically at condos and townhomes. According to data from 2024, 83.8% of the condos and townhomes listed for sale in Houston had HOA fees attached.

Let's also look at the sales figures. As of July 2026, the median price for single-family homes was $340,000, which is a slight increase from the beginning of the year. In contrast, the combined average price for townhomes and condos decreased by 2.4% to $260,987, with the median price dropping by 3.7% to $211,000. While the numbers suggest that townhomes and condos are definitely cheaper, it's important to factor in the monthly HOA fees, which can narrow the price gap.

It's also worth examining the inventory trends. The active listings for the townhome and condo segment increased by 4.6% to 3,631 units, while the inventory absorption period extended to 9.1 months. This indicates a market where buyers have more room for negotiation. In contrast, single-family homes showed a relatively balanced flow with 5.5 months of inventory.

In new construction, the percentage of homes with HOA fees is even higher. According to 2024 data, 69.9% of newly built homes charge monthly HOA fees, compared to only 38.2% for existing homes. Families looking for a new home should make it a habit to compare the HOA fees alongside the sale prices, whether they are considering new or existing homes.

Houston is a large city with diverse neighborhoods. Areas within the inner loop, especially places like Midtown, tend to have higher average condo and townhome HOA fees due to their proximity to workplaces. Conversely, as you move outward, there are more developments focused on single-family homes, which generally have lower HOA costs. In the southwestern region, where many Korean families reside, it is common to prioritize single-family homes based on school district ratings and commuting distances.

For investors looking for rental income, it is essential to include HOA fees in the calculation of net yield. Even if a townhome appears to have a high yield due to a low sale price, the monthly HOA fees of $200 to $400 can significantly reduce the actual net yield. It is safer to review the history of HOA fee increases for the community rather than assuming guaranteed profits.

Ultimately, when comparing the three types of properties in Houston, it is crucial to consider not just the sale price but also the total holding costs, including HOA fees. Property tax and HOA regulations can vary by county and community, so it is advisable to check the latest information before making any agreements. This article does not constitute investment or legal advice, and it is wise to consult with real estate and tax professionals before finalizing any contracts.

Due to the large size of Houston, the burden of HOA fees can vary significantly even within the same city. Popular areas like Midtown, which are close to workplaces, tend to have higher average HOA costs for condos and townhomes, while new developments on the outskirts often have a higher proportion of single-family homes with little to no HOA fees. When comparing listings, it is beneficial to first check the variance in HOA fees by neighborhood, even within Houston.

Single-family homes typically involve sole ownership of the land, with maintenance fully the owner's responsibility, and often have no or low HOA fees. In contrast, condos usually have higher HOA fees because the management takes care of most of the building's structure and exterior. Understanding this basic structure helps explain why the HOA fees for townhomes and condos in Houston are significantly higher than the overall average.