Houston-area man accused of selling fake accessible parking placards online
Harris County Precinct 1 Constable Alan Rosen warned that those caught using illegitimate placards can face misdemeanor charges, which could carry a fine and jail time.
Cost of Living in Bellaire, Texas
If you're considering a move to Bellaire, the most important question is: what does it actually cost to live here? Bellaire News has compiled the full picture — housing, taxes, utilities, transportation, groceries, healthcare — so you can plan accurately. Updated for 2026.
Quick summary
Estimated annual cost for a family of 4 in Bellaire
$120,000-$180,000
~40% above US average; one of most expensive Houston suburbs
Housing costs
Median home prices
Median home price$700,000-$1,500,000
Median rent (2-bedroom)$2,000-$3,200
Property tax rate2.3-2.5%
HOA fees (typical)(varies)
Bellaire is an independent city surrounded by Houston, known for tree-lined streets and excellent schools. Premium pricing reflects strong demand.
Taxes
State income tax0% (Texas/Florida)
Sales tax (state + local)~8%
Property tax rate2.3-2.5%
Vehicle registration (annual)$50-$100
Tax burden is moderate. Texas has no state income tax, balanced by property and sales taxes.
Utilities
Electricity (monthly avg)$120-$200
Water + sewer (monthly)$40-$80
Natural gas (monthly)$20-$50
Internet (100Mbps+)$60-$90
Trash + recycling (monthly)$15-$25
Transportation
Average commute~20-40 min typical for Bellaire commutes
Gas price (per gallon)$2.80-$3.40
Public transit (monthly pass)Limited; car typically required
Car insurance (annual avg)$1,300-$2,000
A car is typically required for daily life in Bellaire.
Groceries and food
Family of 4 groceries (monthly)$900-$1,200
Average restaurant meal (2 people)$40-$80
Cost-of-groceries index (US=100)95-105
Healthcare
Primary care visit (no insurance)$120-$200
Avg family health insurance (employer)$22,000-$26,000/year
Out-of-pocket maximums (typical)$8,000-$15,000
Childcare and education
Daycare (monthly, infant)$1,000-$1,400
Preschool (monthly, 4yo)$700-$1,100
Public school (free)Tax-funded
Private school (annual avg)$8,000-$20,000
How Bellaire compares
Bellaire commands prices comparable to inside-the-Loop Houston neighborhoods. Median home values are among the highest in the Houston metro.
Bottom line
Bellaire delivers premium suburban quality of life adjacent to the Texas Medical Center — but at a premium price. Plan for $120-180k annual costs for a family of 4.
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