In these Harris County neighborhoods, landlords seek to evict renters at the highest rates

A 2024 analysis of more than 76,000 eviction filings in Harris County shows that renters in northern suburbs, Houston's south side, and parts of Katy face eviction attempts at two to three times the county average. One Spring neighborhood had 28 filings per 100 renters — triple the countywide rate of 9. Even when a case ends in a renter's favor, a filing on your record can make it harder to find housing in the future.

Researchers at Rice University's Kinder Institute mapped eviction filings across 144 Harris County neighborhoods. Hot spots included the 1960 / Cypress Creek North area in Spring, Houston's south side from Third Ward to Minnetex, the Briar Forest and Westchase area, and much of the northeast side. Lower filing rates appeared in Alief, Gulfton, Sharpstown, Pasadena, and Clear Lake. One key pattern: larger corporate landlords tend to file at higher volumes than smaller, individual property owners. Texas makes filing fast and inexpensive, so some landlords treat it as a first step in any rent dispute rather than a last resort.

Use this research to understand your neighborhood's risk level and know your rights before a problem starts. If you rent in a high-filing area — especially in a large apartment complex — learn the eviction process now, document all rent payments, and keep copies of any communication with your landlord. If you receive a notice to vacate, contact a legal aid organization right away. Acting quickly gives you the best chance of resolving the dispute without a court record.

No fixed date

Not location-specific

This issue connects closely to housing affordability, neighborhood stability, and economic opportunity across the Houston area. Renters dealing with housing instability often face ripple effects on employment and health. Local resources like Lone Star Legal Aid, Houston's housing assistance programs, and community organizations focused on tenant rights can all be valuable allies.

An eviction filing — not just an eviction judgment — can follow you for years and limit your housing options. Knowing which neighborhoods see the highest filing rates, and why, helps renters understand their risk and take steps to protect themselves before a dispute reaches the courthouse.