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. Current rental trends show average rents around $1,133 for a one-bedroom apartment, with rates experiencing a slight decrease of about 3.3% over the past year.
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.
As of December 2025, the average apartment rent in Galveston, TX is $1,204 for a studio, $1,139 for one bedroom, $1,423 for two bedrooms, and $1,907 for three bedrooms. Apartment rent in Galveston has decreased by -0.8% 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.
Somewhat Walkable
out of 100 WalkScore® Rating
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
out of 100 TransitScore® Rating
You'll likely want a car when living in this area since it has few transit options.
Bikeable
out of 100 BikeScore® Rating
While there’s some bike infrastructure in this area, you’ll still need a car for many errands.
Public
Grades PK-4
610 Students
Public
Grades PK-4
482 Students
Morgan Elementary Magnet School
Public
Grades PK-4
565 Students
Public
Grades 5-6
426 Students
Rosenberg El Laboratory for Learning and Leading
Public
Grades PK-4
337 Students
Public
Grades 5-12
77 Students
Public
Grades 7-8
879 Students
Public
Grades 9-12
1,934 Students
Public
Grades 5-12
77 Students
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† Our analysis of utilities, groceries, transportation, healthcare, home prices, and other goods and services is sourced from the Cost of Living Index, a respected benchmark published by the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER) that provides a thorough overview of living expenses across different regions.
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 November 2025.
