If you’ve been hunting for an apartment in the Greater Houston area, specifically around the Meyerland or Westbury pocket, you’ve likely seen The Flats at Westbury pop up on your screen. It’s one of those complexes that sits in a weirdly convenient spot. You aren't exactly in the heart of the posh Bellaire neighborhoods, but you're close enough to reap the benefits of the location without paying the jaw-dropping rents found three miles north.
Finding a place to live is stressful. Honestly, it’s a mess of looking at glossy photos that were taken five years ago and reading reviews from people who either loved the maintenance guy or had a grudge because their deposit wasn't returned.
So, what is the deal with this specific spot on Chimney Rock Road?
The Flats at Westbury is essentially a garden-style apartment community. It’s located in a part of Houston that is currently undergoing a massive identity shift. For a long time, Westbury was just a quiet, 1950s-style suburb. Now, it’s becoming the go-to "value" play for people who work in the Texas Medical Center but don't want to live in a shoebox for $2,500 a month.
The Reality of the Location and Neighborhood Vibes
Location is everything. If you live here, your life revolves around the West Loop and the Southwest Freeway. You're basically ten minutes from the Galleria and fifteen from the Medical Center, assuming the 610 loop isn't acting like a parking lot—which, let's be real, it usually is during rush hour.
The neighborhood itself, Westbury, has a quirky history. It was named one of the "Best Hidden Gem" neighborhoods by various local publications over the years because of its mid-century modern architecture and massive oak trees. The Flats at Westbury fits into this ecosystem by providing a more accessible entry point than buying a $500,000 ranch house down the street.
What’s right nearby?
You've got the Westbury Park across the way. It’s huge. If you have a dog or just like to pretend you’re going to start jogging, it’s a legitimate perk. Then there’s the shopping. You aren't trekking across town for groceries. The Meyerland Plaza is just up the road, featuring Target, H-E-B, and enough fast-casual dining to keep you fed for a decade.
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But there’s a trade-off.
Being in an older, established area means the infrastructure isn't always shiny and new. Houston is famous for its drainage issues. While the city has dumped millions into the Project Brays bayou improvements nearby to mitigate flooding, it’s always something that stays in the back of your mind when a tropical storm enters the Gulf.
Inside the Units: Modernity vs. Age
Walking into a unit at The Flats at Westbury, you’ll notice they’ve clearly tried to bridge the gap between "classic Houston apartment" and "modern living." This isn't a glass-and-steel high-rise. It’s a renovation project.
They use a lot of the standard modern finishes. You’ll see the "wood-style" flooring, which is basically durable vinyl plank. It looks good and is impossible to kill, which is great if you’re prone to spilling coffee. The kitchens usually feature black or stainless appliances. They aren't Viking ranges, but they work.
One thing that surprises people is the floor plan variety. Some of these older builds have much larger bedrooms than the new "luxury" builds going up in Midtown. You can actually fit a king-sized bed and a dresser in the same room without feeling like you're in a Tetris game.
The Maintenance Factor
Old buildings have character. They also have old pipes and old wiring. This is where the reputation of the management team really matters. At The Flats at Westbury, the experience tends to hinge on how quickly a work order is processed.
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People often complain about AC units in Houston. It's 100 degrees for four months of the year. If your AC goes out at a complex like this, you find out very quickly what kind of service you’re going to get. Most reports suggest they stay on top of it, but like any large complex, you have to be your own advocate. Don't just send an email; walk into the front office.
Breaking Down the Amenities: Are They Worth It?
Let’s talk about the pool. Every apartment in Houston has a pool. It’s a legal requirement for sanity. The pool here is decent—it’s a social hub in the summer.
- The Fitness Center: It’s small. If you’re a powerlifter, you’re still going to keep your gym membership. If you just want to run on a treadmill for twenty minutes so you don't feel guilty about the tacos you ate at Tacos A Go Go, it’s perfectly fine.
- Pet Policy: They are pretty pet-friendly. Given the proximity to Westbury Park, this is actually a big selling point. There are breed restrictions, though, so don't show up with a wolf-hybrid and expect a warm welcome.
- Gated Access: It exists. It’s one of those things that provides a layer of comfort, but in any city the size of Houston, gates are only as good as the people following them in.
The "Middle-Class" Squeeze and Rent Prices
The most interesting thing about The Flats at Westbury is its price point. It sits firmly in that "workforce housing" category. You’re looking at a demographic of teachers, medical residents, and young professionals who are saving for a house.
Rent prices in Houston have been a roller coaster. In 2026, we’ve seen a slight stabilization after the spikes of the early 20s, but "cheap" is a relative term now. This complex remains competitive because it doesn't try to be something it’s not. It isn't a boutique hotel; it’s a place to live.
Wait—why do people pick this over the newer buildings?
Usually, it’s the math. If you save $400 a month on rent by living here instead of a "true" luxury building, that’s nearly $5,000 a year. For a lot of people, that’s the difference between never owning a home and actually getting a down payment together.
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Common Misconceptions About the Area
Some people hear "Southwest Houston" and get nervous. They think it's all traffic and concrete. While the traffic part is true, the Westbury area is surprisingly green. It was actually named one of the 25 Best Places to Live in the U.S. by Better Homes and Gardens back in the day, and that "neighborhood feel" has persisted.
Another myth? That you can’t get anywhere without a car. Okay, that one is actually mostly true. While there are METRO bus lines that run near The Flats at Westbury, Houston is a car city. If you don't have wheels, you’re going to spend a fortune on Ubers.
What to Watch Out For
Before you sign a lease, you need to do a physical walkthrough. Not a "virtual tour." Not a "look at the model unit" tour. You want to see the actual unit you are moving into.
Check the water pressure. Open the cabinets and look at the corners for any signs of unwanted "roommates" (pests are a reality in the humid South). Look at the seals on the windows. Since these are older buildings that have been renovated, the windows are sometimes the original single-pane glass. That can lead to higher electricity bills in the summer because the cool air just leaks right out.
Also, ask about the "valet trash" fees and other add-ons. Most modern complexes tack on $25 to $50 for trash pickup and pest control. It’s annoying, but it’s standard. Just make sure you factor that into your monthly budget so you aren't surprised when the bill hits.
Actionable Steps for Prospective Residents
If you’re serious about moving to The Flats at Westbury, don't just wing it. Follow this sequence to make sure you're getting the best deal and the right unit:
- Visit at Night: This is the golden rule of apartment hunting. See what the lighting is like and how much noise there is when everyone is home from work. Is it peaceful or is someone blasting music in the parking lot?
- Check the Commute: Open Google Maps on a Tuesday morning at 8:00 AM. Type in your workplace. If that commute makes you want to cry, the "cheap" rent isn't worth it.
- Talk to a Resident: If you see someone walking their dog, politely ask how they like the management. They will give you the unfiltered truth that a leasing agent never will.
- Inquire About Upgraded Units: Sometimes they have units that haven't been fully renovated for a lower price. If you don't care about "stainless" appliances, you might save some serious cash.
- Document Everything: When you move in, take a video of every single wall, floor, and ceiling. This protects your security deposit when you eventually move out.
The Flats at Westbury represents a very specific slice of Houston life. It’s for the person who wants a solid, clean place to sleep that’s close to the action but doesn't want to spend 60% of their paycheck on a "lifestyle" they’re too busy working to enjoy. It has its flaws—mostly stemming from the age of the bones of the building—but as far as value-for-money in the 77035 and 77096 zip codes go, it’s a heavy hitter.