Living in Galveston combines coastal living with historic charm. This island city features 32 miles of Gulf Coast beaches alongside the preserved Victorian-era Strand District. The University of Texas Medical Branch serves as a major employer, while attractions like Moody Gardens and the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier offer entertainment throughout the year. Housing options include restored Victorian homes in the East End Historic District and beachfront condominiums along Seawall Boulevard, with established neighborhoods like Cedar Lawn and Denver Court.
The island's character stems from its history as a major 19th-century port city. Galveston boasts the country's largest collection of preserved Victorian architecture, particularly visible in the East End Historic District. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Galveston Island State Park's trails and beaches, while the Grand 1894 Opera House hosts year-round performances. The city celebrates its heritage through annual events like Mardi Gras and Dickens on the Strand. Galveston holds particular historical significance as the location where General Gordon Granger announced the enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation on June 19, 1865 - now commemorated nationally as Juneteenth.
An artistic touch on a mailbox, fitting the theme of this beach neighborhood of Terramar.
Residents enjoy year-round boating and fishing opportunities in the community of Terramar.
A public open-for-all book stand library is one of the small, but appreciated, parts of Sea Isle
The bay view of Sea Isle/Terramar where many waterfront canal homes can be found.
Cattle graze in the sand dunes of Terramar, just across from the beach homes.
A newly renovated tennis court located in Sea Isle, Galveston.
As of March 2026, the average apartment rent in Galveston, TX is $1,211 for a studio, $1,133 for one bedroom, $1,418 for two bedrooms, and $1,946 for three bedrooms. Apartment rent in Galveston has increased by 1.4% in the past year.
If you love Mardi Gras, live somewhere that shares your passion! Explore other cities that host the biggest celebrations in the U.S.
Explore how walkable, bikeable, drivable, and transit-friendly Galveston, TX is for everyday living.
Somewhat Walkable
You might be able to get out and walk when living in this area. Some errands can be accomplished on foot, but for others you’ll need a car.
Minimal Transit
You'll likely want a car when living in this area since it has few transit options.
Bikeable
While there’s some bike infrastructure in this area, you’ll still need a car for many errands.
Ambassadors Preparatory Academy
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Rent data is provided by CoStar Group’s Market Trend reports. As the industry leader in commercial real estate information, analytics, and news, CoStar conducts extensive research to produce and maintain a comprehensive database of commercial real estate information. We combine this data with public record to provide the most up-to-date rental information available.
Consumer goods, services, and home prices are sourced from the Cost of Living Index published by the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER). The data on this page is updated quarterly. It was last published in February 2026.
