Sandwiched between Houston's Medical Center and The Galleria area, the tree-lined West University area is one of the most sought after districts in the city. Home to Rice University and the pedestrian-friendly Rice Village Shopping Center, the neighborhood appeals to families and young professionals alike. Swing by the Village for fashion-forward finds at local and nationally-owned boutiques, bites at one of the many restaurants and happy hour sips at the night life hot spots along Morningside Boulevard.

West University, commonly referred to as "West U', is nicknamed "The Neighborhood City" and is mainly a bedroom community for upper-class families. As of 2011, West University Place has the fifth highest fraction of households with incomes $150,000 or greater. Almost all street names in West University Place are allusions to universities, colleges, and poets. People living in the area are fond of restoration of older houses, and the neighborhood includes some of Houston's more expensive homes. Recent construction has blended modern amenities while keeping the charm that West U is known for.