Harris County

Harris County is a government region in southeastern Texas that includes the city of Houston and dozens of smaller communities. The territory stretches from the downtown core to flatter coastal plains near the Gulf of Mexico.

The region was formed in 1836 as Harrisburg County and renamed three years later after John Richardson Harris. This entrepreneur built the first steam-powered sawmill in the area and encouraged early settlement along Buffalo Bayou.

The population of 4.7 million residents includes substantial White, African American, Asian, and Hispanic communities, creating a multicultural environment across the region.

Visitors to the area can access numerous parks, health facilities, and transport links through a wide network of roads and public offices. Different districts offer varying atmospheres, from dense development in the city center to quieter suburban neighborhoods with more green space.

The total area is larger than the state of Rhode Island, showing the scale of this Texas region. Despite this expanse, Houston remains the clear center for government and public services.

Location: Texas

Inception: 1836

Capital city: Houston

Shares border with: Galveston County, Montgomery County, Fort Bend County, Brazoria County, Chambers County, Liberty County, Waller County

Website: http://co.harris.tx.us

GPS coordinates: 29.86000,-95.39000

Latest update: December 4, 2025 14:20