Population:  appr. 50,000


The City of Clear Lake was a happy byproduct of the Johnson Space Center and was established when its employees and their families relocated to the area in the 1970’s. Clear Lake is a master planned residential community with a unique and individual flavor and a wonderful family atmosphere. Less than thirty miles from both the bright lights of Houston and the sparkling beaches in Galveston, residents of Clear Lake can take advantage of great cosmopolitan attractions or simple seaside solitude. Just three miles outside of the city proper along the southeastern portion of town rests the small island enclave of Clear Lake Shores. Less than one square mile in size, this prestigious community has less than 1400 residents. Clear Lake City proper is included in both Galveston and Harris Counties and has a current residency of over 60,000. Home to four major marinas, one of which is the largest privately owned marina in the country, Clear Lake is the perfect place for boating enthusiasts.  

In 1961 the National Aeronautics and Space Administration chose the city of Houston as the location for the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center. Thousands migrated to the Houston area to service the fledgling industry sparking the area economy and stimulating growth. That same year the Humble Oil and Refining Company (known today as Exxon Oil) designated 15,000 acres of their property holdings for residential development thus spurring the creation of the City of Clear Lake. Two years later, Governor John Connally formally cut the ribbon to the new Houston suburb and by 1968 Clear Lake had a residency of almost 4,000. The Johnson Space Center alone employed 3302 civil service employees, and as other industrial titans galvanized the local economy, Clear Lake thrived from the financial surplus that flooded the community. 

With a climate that nears perfection and a location that offers both the beauty of the beach and excitement of the big city, Clear Lake offers countless opportunities for recreational pleasure. Prolonged periods of warm sunshine awaken the outdoorsman in everyone. Picnicking on the beaches at Galveston Island and sailing on Galveston Bay are popular pastimes. Houston is ready and waiting with many highly acclaimed museums, galleries and historical landmarks. Afternoon strolls along Kemah Boardwalk with romantic views of the marina and charming waterfront dining is another great way to spend the weekend.  

The locals love their community and find many opportunities to celebrate the easy living lifestyle that comes so naturally. Almost every weekend there is something to see and do in the Clear Lake Area. Early September welcomes The Wings Over Houston Air Show, followed by the all Arts and Crafts Fair in October. The Dickinson on the Strand Festival heralds the coming of Christmas and the magical holiday boat show where dozens of boats parade in full holiday regalia is a unique and time honored tradition. The Clear Lake region is also famous for the abundance of wildflowers that blanket the surrounding countryside every March and April. Visitors travel from miles away to walk through and marvel at the riot of colorful floral displays and bask in the balmy Gulf Stream breezes. Summertime fun includes weekly sailing regattas which is just as enjoyable on sea or shore. Clear Lake is also home to one of the most unique attractions in the nation. The Space Center Houston allows visitors to gain an historical perspective to the manned space program. Through exhilarating exhibits and hands on activities the Space Center Houston provides a literal out of this world experience for young and old alike.  

The City of Clear Lake was annexed by Houston in 1977 and is located less than 25 miles south of the city proper off of Interstate 45 and Highway 3. A part of Galveston County, it is 3 miles from Clear Lake Shores, 5 miles from League City and 13 miles from Pasadena. Offering the best of both worlds, Clear Lake is also 25 miles from the Galveston Beaches.