The Relocation Edition

Mueller

Central

Austin’s best new-urbanist experiment. Walkable, mixed-use, and actually delivers on the promise.

Mueller is what happens when city planning works. Built on the old Robert Mueller Municipal Airport, this 700-acre master-planned community delivers genuine mixed-use urbanism: shops, restaurants, the Thinkery children’s museum, and H-E-B all within walking distance. Housing ranges from townhomes to single-family, all built since 2007. The grid streets, alley-loaded garages, and front porches create a neighborhood feel that most master plans promise but few achieve. AISD schools with strong ratings. The trade-off: lots are small, HOA rules are real, and you’ll hear your neighbors.

Mueller at a glance

Median

$725,000

Range

$450K – $1.2M

DOM

28 days

Built

2007 – present

To DT

10 min

HOA

$150/mo

Effective property tax

~2.10%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Mueller neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Mueller

Walk Score 72 / 100, Very Walkable.

Bike

82

Transit

45

Groceries

85

Dining

78

Parks

88

Errands

72

Schools serving Mueller

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Mueller Elem (Blanton), rated 8/10
• Middle: Garcia YMLA, rated 7/10
• High: LBJ Early College, rated 7/10

Best for: Young families, walkability-first buyers, downsizers from the suburbs

Full Mueller guide →

Hyde Park

Central

Austin’s first suburb, now its most charming urban neighborhood. Craftsman bungalows and UT proximity.

Hyde Park is Austin’s original planned suburb, platted in 1891, and it aged beautifully. Tree-lined streets, Craftsman bungalows, a few Victorians, and the kind of walkability that makes people sell their second car. Avenue B Grocery is the neighborhood anchor. UT campus is a bike ride away, which means the energy skews younger than the architecture. Homes here rarely last 30 days on market. The trade-off: older homes mean older systems, and lot sizes are modest. Some blocks feel more student-rental than owner-occupied.

Hyde Park at a glance

Median

$875,000

Range

$550K – $1.8M

DOM

22 days

Built

1890s – 1940s

To DT

8 min

HOA

None

Effective property tax

~2.05%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Hyde Park neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Hyde Park

Walk Score 78 / 100, Very Walkable.

Bike

88

Transit

48

Groceries

82

Dining

85

Parks

75

Errands

78

Schools serving Hyde Park

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Lee Elementary, rated 7/10
• Middle: Lamar Middle, rated 7/10
• High: McCallum High, rated 8/10

Best for: UT faculty, walkability seekers, historic home lovers

Full Hyde Park guide →

Travis Heights

Central

South Congress on one side, the lake on the other. Eclectic homes with the best views in central Austin.

Travis Heights sits on the bluffs above Lady Bird Lake with South Congress as its commercial spine. The housing stock is wildly eclectic, 1930s bungalows next to modern glass boxes next to mid-century ranches. Views of downtown from the hillside lots are some of the best in the city. Walkability to SoCo restaurants, coffee shops, and the hike-and-bike trail is the draw. Stacy Park pool is the neighborhood swimming hole. Prices reflect the location premium: you’re paying for proximity to everything that makes Austin magnetic.

Travis Heights at a glance

Median

$1,250,000

Range

$700K – $3.5M

DOM

35 days

Built

1930s – 2020s

To DT

5 min

HOA

None

Effective property tax

~1.95%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Travis Heights neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Travis Heights

Walk Score 82 / 100, Very Walkable.

Bike

85

Transit

52

Groceries

78

Dining

92

Parks

88

Errands

80

Schools serving Travis Heights

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Travis Heights Elem, rated 7/10
• Middle: Lively Middle, rated 6/10
• High: Travis High, rated 6/10

Best for: Walkability maximalists, SoCo lifestyle, downtown proximity without downtown living

Full Travis Heights guide →

Zilker

Central

The park, the springs, the greenbelt. Austin’s outdoor living room with real neighborhood bones.

Zilker is defined by its park, 350 acres of green anchored by Barton Springs Pool, the spring-fed swimming hole that locals treat as sacred ground. The neighborhood itself is modest mid-century homes on generous lots, many now torn down and replaced with modern builds at 3x the price. Barton Hills bleeds into Zilker on the south side. The hike-and-bike trail runs along the north edge. Lamar Boulevard provides the commercial corridor. The trade-off is obvious: you’re paying a massive premium for park adjacency, and ACL Festival means your streets become a parking lot every October.

Zilker at a glance

Median

$1,400,000

Range

$850K – $4M+

DOM

32 days

Built

1950s – 2020s

To DT

7 min

HOA

None

Effective property tax

~1.90%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Zilker neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Zilker

Walk Score 68 / 100, Somewhat Walkable.

Bike

82

Transit

42

Groceries

65

Dining

75

Parks

95

Errands

62

Schools serving Zilker

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Zilker Elementary, rated 8/10
• Middle: O. Henry Middle, rated 7/10
• High: Austin High, rated 7/10

Best for: Outdoor families, Barton Springs regulars, central-south lifestyle

Full Zilker guide →

Barton Hills

Central

Greenbelt trailhead in your backyard. Mid-century homes tucked into the hills south of the lake.

Barton Hills is the neighborhood for people who moved to Austin for the outdoors. The Barton Creek Greenbelt trailhead is literally at the end of several streets: you can walk from your front door to swimming holes, rock climbing walls, and miles of trail. The housing stock is primarily 1960s–1970s homes built into the limestone hillsides, with some newer construction filling in. Barton Springs Pool is a short drive or bike ride. The trade-off: the hills mean steep driveways, limited accessibility, and some homes sit on top of the Edwards Aquifer recharge zone, which limits expansion.

Barton Hills at a glance

Median

$1,100,000

Range

$700K – $2.5M

DOM

30 days

Built

1960s – 1980s

To DT

10 min

HOA

None

Effective property tax

~1.92%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Barton Hills neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Barton Hills

Walk Score 42 / 100, Car-Dependent.

Bike

55

Transit

30

Groceries

45

Dining

48

Parks

92

Errands

40

Schools serving Barton Hills

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Barton Hills Elementary, rated 8/10
• Middle: O. Henry Middle, rated 7/10
• High: Austin High, rated 7/10

Best for: Greenbelt access, outdoor families, mid-century enthusiasts

Full Barton Hills guide →

Clarksville

Central

Historic freedmen’s community turned luxury enclave. Walkable to downtown, MoPac, and everything.

Clarksville is one of Austin’s oldest neighborhoods, founded in the 1870s as a freedmen’s community, now one of its most expensive. The streets are narrow, the lots are small, and the location is unbeatable: walking distance to downtown, Whole Foods flagship, and the Hike-and-Bike Trail. The housing stock ranges from preserved cottages to full modern rebuilds. West Lynn is the neighborhood’s street, with Jeffrey’s, Josephine House, and Nau’s Enfield Drug. The trade-off: you’re paying $1,500+ per square foot for location, and the neighborhood’s historic character is steadily being replaced by contemporary architecture.

Clarksville at a glance

Median

$1,800,000

Range

$1M – $5M+

DOM

40 days

Built

1870s – 2020s

To DT

3 min

HOA

None

Effective property tax

~1.85%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Clarksville neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Clarksville

Walk Score 85 / 100, Very Walkable.

Bike

80

Transit

55

Groceries

90

Dining

92

Parks

82

Errands

88

Schools serving Clarksville

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Casis Elementary, rated 9/10
• Middle: O. Henry Middle, rated 7/10
• High: Austin High, rated 7/10

Best for: Luxury urban living, walkability, empty nesters downsizing from Westlake

Full Clarksville guide →

Tarrytown

Central

Old Austin money meets lake access. The address west of MoPac that signals you’ve arrived.

Tarrytown is Austin’s most established luxury neighborhood east of the lake. Deep Eddy Pool, the oldest swimming pool in Texas, is the anchor. Lake Austin Boulevard runs along the southern edge. The housing stock is a mix of stately 1930s–1960s homes and modern rebuilds on large lots with mature pecan and oak canopy. Casis Elementary is the school draw, consistently top-rated in AISD. Reed Park and Walsh Boat Landing provide lake access. The trade-off: streets are narrow, some homes sit in the floodplain, and prices start at $1M for a teardown.

Tarrytown at a glance

Median

$1,650,000

Range

$1M – $5M+

DOM

38 days

Built

1930s – 2020s

To DT

8 min

HOA

None

Effective property tax

~1.88%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Tarrytown neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Tarrytown

Walk Score 55 / 100, Somewhat Walkable.

Bike

62

Transit

38

Groceries

58

Dining

52

Parks

78

Errands

50

Schools serving Tarrytown

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Casis Elementary, rated 9/10
• Middle: O. Henry Middle, rated 7/10
• High: Austin High, rated 7/10

Best for: Established families, lake access, old Austin heritage, Casis Elementary

Full Tarrytown guide →

Downtown

Central

Condos, high-rises, and the Rainey District. Urban Austin for people who want everything at street level.

Downtown Austin is a condo market, not a house market. The Seaholm District, the Rainey Street corridor, and the blocks along Congress Avenue offer high-rise living with lake views, rooftop pools, and walkable access to everything. Rainey Street’s converted bungalow bars are the social scene. The 2nd Street District has the retail. Republic Square and Waterloo Park provide the green. Parking is expensive, property taxes on condos hit hard, and HOA fees in luxury towers run $800–$1,500/month. But if walkability is non-negotiable and you want to sell the car, this is the only neighborhood in Austin where that’s genuinely practical.

Downtown at a glance

Median (condo)

$650,000

Range

$350K – $3M+

DOM

45 days

Built

2000s – 2020s

To DT

0 min

HOA

$800–$1,500/mo

Effective property tax

~2.15%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Downtown neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Downtown

Walk Score 92 / 100, Walker’s Paradise.

Bike

85

Transit

62

Groceries

88

Dining

96

Parks

78

Errands

90

Schools serving Downtown

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Mathews Elementary, rated 6/10
• Middle: O. Henry Middle, rated 7/10
• High: Austin High, rated 7/10

Best for: Car-free living, young professionals, pied-à-terre buyers

Full Downtown guide →

Bouldin Creek

Central

South Austin’s creative core. Funky yards, old trees, and the best breakfast tacos in the city.

Bouldin Creek is the neighborhood that locals mean when they say “Keep Austin Weird.” Sandwiched between South 1st and South Congress, it’s a grid of tree-lined streets with 1940s–1960s cottages, many lovingly maintained, some artfully neglected. South 1st Street has become a serious restaurant row: Odd Duck, Lenoir, Loro. The neighborhood still has working artists, musicians, and the kind of yard art that realtors politely call “eclectic.” Prices have climbed hard, the $300K cottages of 2015 are $900K now, but the vibe persists. No HOA, no deed restrictions worth mentioning.

Bouldin Creek at a glance

Median

$950,000

Range

$650K – $2.5M

DOM

25 days

Built

1940s – 1960s

To DT

5 min

HOA

None

Effective property tax

~2.00%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Bouldin Creek neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Bouldin Creek

Walk Score 80 / 100, Very Walkable.

Bike

88

Transit

48

Groceries

75

Dining

90

Parks

72

Errands

78

Schools serving Bouldin Creek

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Becker Elementary, rated 7/10
• Middle: Lively Middle, rated 6/10
• High: Travis High, rated 6/10

Best for: Creative class, South Austin loyalists, walkable-eclectic seekers

Full Bouldin Creek guide →

Bryker Woods

Central

Seven hundred and fifty houses under a tree canopy. It rarely trades, and that is the point.

Bryker Woods is a 750-home pocket between MoPac and Shoal Creek, running from about West 29th north to West 38th, on roughly 220 acres. The bulk of it went up in the mid to late 1930s and the stock is still what it was: Craftsman and Tudor Revival bungalows on compact lots, many under 6,000 square feet, under a heavy tree canopy. Bryker Woods Elementary, Austin ISD’s first elementary International Baccalaureate campus, anchors the neighborhood and is the reason a lot of families never leave. Kerbey Lane on 34th Street and the 29th Street retail stretch are a walk from most of it. The trade-off: almost nothing comes up. Roughly fifteen homes closed here in the last twelve months, so buyers wait, and when one does list you are negotiating over a small lot and 1930s systems.

Bryker Woods at a glance

Median

$1,400,000

Range

$675K – $3M

DOM

35 days

Built

1930s – 1950s

To DT

7 min

HOA

None

Effective property tax

~1.85%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Bryker Woods neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Bryker Woods

Walk Score 69 / 100, Somewhat Walkable.

Bike

85

Transit

45

Groceries

74

Dining

72

Parks

68

Errands

67

Schools serving Bryker Woods

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Bryker Woods Elementary, rated 8/10
• Middle: O. Henry Middle, rated 7/10
• High: Austin High, rated 7/10

Best for: Patient buyers, families targeting Bryker Woods Elementary, central Austin at house scale

Full Bryker Woods guide →

Allandale

North Central

1950s ranch on a quarter acre, eight minutes to downtown. AISD elementary you can walk to.

Allandale is the textbook “established North-Central” neighborhood: 1950s ranch houses on quarter-acre lots, mature live oaks, sidewalks, and a strong public-school feeder. The commercial spine on Burnet Road has densified beautifully: TacoDeli, Top Notch, the Bullfight, Workhorse Bar. AISD schools: Gullett or Brentwood Elementary, Lamar Middle, McCallum High.

Allandale at a glance

Median

$1,050,000

Range

$700K – $1.9M

DOM

30 days

Built

1950s – 1980s

To DT

12 min

HOA

None

Effective property tax

~1.95%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Allandale neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Allandale

Walk Score 56 / 100, Somewhat Walkable.

Bike

64

Transit

38

Groceries

62

Dining

60

Parks

66

Errands

56

Schools serving Allandale

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Gullett / Brentwood Elem, rated 8/10
• Middle: Lamar Middle, rated 7/10
• High: McCallum High, rated 8/10

Best for: Established families, AISD priority, single-story lovers

Full Allandale guide →

Crestview

North Central

The Violet Crown vibe with better restaurants. Walkable to Brentwood Social and Little Deli.

Crestview has quietly become one of North-Central’s most desirable pockets. The 1950s ranch houses are similar to Allandale, but the commercial node at Brentwood Social House, Little Deli, and the Violet Crown Cinema gives it an urban-village feel. The Crestview Station commuter rail stop adds transit access (when MetroRail is running). Lots are generous, trees are mature, and the neighborhood association is active. Home prices have climbed steadily as the secret got out. Trade-off: North Lamar traffic and some blocks are noisier than they look.

Crestview at a glance

Median

$925,000

Range

$650K – $1.6M

DOM

26 days

Built

1950s – 1970s

To DT

14 min

HOA

None

Effective property tax

~1.98%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Crestview neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Crestview

Walk Score 58 / 100, Somewhat Walkable.

Bike

68

Transit

42

Groceries

65

Dining

62

Parks

60

Errands

55

Schools serving Crestview

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Brentwood Elementary, rated 8/10
• Middle: Lamar Middle, rated 7/10
• High: McCallum High, rated 8/10

Best for: Young families, foodies, MetroRail commuters

Full Crestview guide →

Rosedale

North Central

AISD’s best elementary, 10 minutes to downtown, and the kind of streets where kids still ride bikes.

Rosedale is the North-Central neighborhood that families fight to get into, and the reason is one school: Rosedale Elementary, consistently one of AISD’s highest-rated. The neighborhood itself is 1940s–1960s homes on mature, tree-canopied lots. Rosedale Park is the community anchor. Proximity to UT, the Triangle shopping center, and downtown makes this one of the most centrally located family neighborhoods in Austin. Prices have climbed accordingly. Most of the affordable stock has been torn down and replaced with $1.5M+ new builds.

Rosedale at a glance

Median

$1,150,000

Range

$750K – $2.2M

DOM

24 days

Built

1940s – 1960s

To DT

10 min

HOA

None

Effective property tax

~1.92%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Rosedale neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Rosedale

Walk Score 62 / 100, Somewhat Walkable.

Bike

72

Transit

44

Groceries

68

Dining

65

Parks

74

Errands

60

Schools serving Rosedale

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Rosedale Elementary, rated 9/10
• Middle: Lamar Middle, rated 7/10
• High: McCallum High, rated 8/10

Best for: AISD families, Rosedale Elementary seekers, central location

Full Rosedale guide →

Brentwood

North Central

Allandale’s neighbor with better Burnet Road access. Same bones, slightly better prices.

Brentwood shares Allandale’s DNA, 1950s ranch homes, mature trees, AISD schools, but sits a few blocks closer to Burnet Road’s restaurant row. Brentwood Elementary anchors the school feeder. The Triangle mixed-use development sits at the southeast corner, adding walkable retail and a Central Market. Homes here tend to be slightly smaller and slightly less expensive than Allandale or Rosedale, which makes it the value play in North-Central. Lots of remodels and a growing number of teardown-rebuilds.

Brentwood at a glance

Median

$975,000

Range

$650K – $1.7M

DOM

28 days

Built

1950s – 1970s

To DT

11 min

HOA

None

Effective property tax

~1.96%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Brentwood neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Brentwood

Walk Score 60 / 100, Somewhat Walkable.

Bike

70

Transit

40

Groceries

72

Dining

65

Parks

62

Errands

58

Schools serving Brentwood

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Brentwood Elementary, rated 8/10
• Middle: Lamar Middle, rated 7/10
• High: McCallum High, rated 8/10

Best for: Value seekers in North-Central, Burnet Road lifestyle, first-time buyers stretching for AISD

Full Brentwood guide →

North Loop

North Central

Vintage shops, dive bars, and the last affordable pocket of urban Austin. Changing fast.

North Loop is the neighborhood you move to when you want urban Austin without the price tag of Hyde Park or Travis Heights. The commercial strip on North Loop Boulevard has a curated-weird energy: vintage clothing shops, Epoch Coffee, Drink.Well, and a handful of record stores. Housing is a mix of small 1950s homes and apartment complexes. UT campus is close, which means the rental mix is high. The neighborhood is in transition, new townhome developments are replacing older stock, and prices are climbing. Get in now or watch it price out.

North Loop at a glance

Median

$750,000

Range

$500K – $1.3M

DOM

22 days

Built

1950s – 1970s

To DT

10 min

HOA

None

Effective property tax

~2.05%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The North Loop neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around North Loop

Walk Score 74 / 100, Very Walkable.

Bike

82

Transit

46

Groceries

78

Dining

80

Parks

68

Errands

72

Schools serving North Loop

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Ridgetop Elementary, rated 6/10
• Middle: Lamar Middle, rated 7/10
• High: McCallum High, rated 8/10

Best for: Young professionals, vintage lovers, urban buyers on a relative budget

Full North Loop guide →

Northwest Hills

North Central

Limestone hills, quarter-acre lots, and the strongest school feeder in northwest Austin.

Northwest Hills is four and a half square miles of limestone hills west of MoPac, bounded by US 183 to the north and RM 2222 to the south, running out toward Loop 360. It was built from the late 1950s through the 1980s on quarter-acre and larger lots, and the lots are the asset: mature live oaks, real elevation, and enough room that most original ranch houses have been remodeled rather than scraped. Far West Boulevard handles the day to day. Bull Creek and Bright Leaf Preserve are the green space, which is a different thing from a neighborhood playground. The Doss to Murchison to Anderson feeder is the quiet reason values hold here. The trade-off: it is hilly and car dependent, the walkability is limited, and unless a house has been through a real remodel you are buying original systems.

Northwest Hills at a glance

Median

$1,210,000

Range

$750K – $2.5M

DOM

32 days

Built

1950s – 1980s

To DT

18 min

HOA

None

Effective property tax

~1.90%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Northwest Hills neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Northwest Hills

Walk Score 25 / 100, Car-Dependent.

Bike

19

Transit

31

Groceries

30

Dining

25

Parks

65

Errands

26

Schools serving Northwest Hills

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Doss Elementary, rated 8/10
• Middle: Murchison Middle, rated 7/10
• High: Anderson High, rated 7/10

Best for: Families prioritizing the Anderson feeder, buyers who want lot size and canopy, remodel projects

Full Northwest Hills guide →

Circle C Ranch

South

The gold standard of South Austin master plans. Pools, trails, Grey Rock golf, and AISD schools.

Circle C Ranch is the neighborhood that South Austin families compare everything else to. Developed starting in the late 1980s, it offers 1,500+ acres of master-planned living with three community pools, Grey Rock Golf Course, miles of hike-and-bike trails, and an active homeowners association. AISD schools: Clayton Elementary, Bailey Middle, and Bowie High (one of AISD’s best). The housing stock is primarily 1990s–2010s construction, ranging from starter homes to large custom builds. The Wildflower Center is next door. The trade-off: it’s 25 minutes to downtown, and MoPac is your only real route.

Circle C Ranch at a glance

Median

$750,000

Range

$550K – $1.3M

DOM

32 days

Built

1988 – 2015

To DT

25 min

HOA

$75/mo

Effective property tax

~1.98%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Circle C Ranch neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Circle C Ranch

Walk Score 22 / 100, Car-Dependent.

Bike

35

Transit

18

Groceries

30

Dining

25

Parks

65

Errands

22

Schools serving Circle C Ranch

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Clayton Elementary, rated 9/10
• Middle: Bailey Middle, rated 8/10
• High: Bowie High, rated 9/10

Best for: Families prioritizing AISD schools, community amenities, South Austin value

Full Circle C Ranch guide →

Travis Country

South

Hill country setting inside city limits. Bowie High feeder with mature trees and real lots.

Travis Country feels like you left the city, but you didn’t. Built into the limestone hills west of MoPac in the late 1980s and 1990s, this community offers genuine topography, mature trees, and lots that feel larger than their surveys suggest. The Bowie High School feeder is the school draw. Community pool and trails wind through the neighborhood. The H-E-B at William Cannon and MoPac is a five-minute drive. Homes range from 1,800 to 4,000 square feet. The trade-off: the hills mean some driveways are steep, and like Circle C, MoPac is the lifeline.

Travis Country at a glance

Median

$700,000

Range

$500K – $1.1M

DOM

28 days

Built

1987 – 2005

To DT

22 min

HOA

$60/mo

Effective property tax

~1.95%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Travis Country neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Travis Country

Walk Score 18 / 100, Car-Dependent.

Bike

28

Transit

15

Groceries

25

Dining

20

Parks

55

Errands

18

Schools serving Travis Country

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Kiker Elementary, rated 8/10
• Middle: Bailey Middle, rated 8/10
• High: Bowie High, rated 9/10

Best for: Hill country feel inside AISD, Bowie High feeder, nature lovers

Full Travis Country guide →

Shady Hollow

South

The quiet achiever of South Austin. Strong schools, pools, and a price point that makes sense.

Shady Hollow is the South Austin neighborhood that doesn’t make the “best of” lists but consistently delivers. Developed in the 1980s and 1990s, it offers a strong HOA, community pools, tennis courts, and a greenbelt buffer. Baranoff Elementary is well-regarded. The homes are solid: brick and stone construction, 1,800–3,500 square feet, on generous lots with mature trees. It’s quieter and less trafficked than Circle C. The trade-off: slightly further south, and the commercial options along Brodie Lane are more utilitarian than charming.

Shady Hollow at a glance

Median

$625,000

Range

$475K – $950K

DOM

26 days

Built

1985 – 2005

To DT

28 min

HOA

$55/mo

Effective property tax

~2.02%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Shady Hollow neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Shady Hollow

Walk Score 15 / 100, Car-Dependent.

Bike

25

Transit

12

Groceries

22

Dining

18

Parks

50

Errands

15

Schools serving Shady Hollow

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Baranoff Elementary, rated 8/10
• Middle: Bailey Middle, rated 8/10
• High: Bowie High, rated 9/10

Best for: Quiet family life, Bowie High feeder, value in South Austin

Full Shady Hollow guide →

Maple Run

South

Starter-home South Austin at its most honest. Good bones, good schools, room to breathe.

Maple Run is the South Austin neighborhood where first-time buyers and relocating families find their footing. Homes are primarily 1980s–1990s construction, single-story or split-level, on standard suburban lots. The neighborhood is well-maintained without being precious. Menchaca Road provides the commercial corridor. Bowie High School is the draw for families. The community pool and parks are modest but functional. This is the neighborhood where your dollar goes furthest in AISD’s best high school feeder zone.

Maple Run at a glance

Median

$500,000

Range

$375K – $700K

DOM

22 days

Built

1982 – 1998

To DT

25 min

HOA

$40/mo

Effective property tax

~2.05%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Maple Run neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Maple Run

Walk Score 20 / 100, Car-Dependent.

Bike

30

Transit

15

Groceries

28

Dining

22

Parks

45

Errands

20

Schools serving Maple Run

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Menchaca Elementary, rated 7/10
• Middle: Bailey Middle, rated 8/10
• High: Bowie High, rated 9/10

Best for: First-time buyers, value seekers, Bowie High at an entry price

Full Maple Run guide →

Onion Creek

South

Golf course community with Hill Country views. The established South Austin address for the country-club set.

Onion Creek is anchored by the Onion Creek Club, a private golf and country club that gives the neighborhood its identity. The housing stock ranges from 1970s originals along the fairways to newer sections with 2000s construction. The club itself has undergone significant renovation. Views of the Hill Country and the golf course are the selling points. The neighborhood sits between I-35 and the SH 45 corridor, giving it better access to both south and southeast Austin employers. The trade-off: it’s further from the urban core than other South Austin picks, and the older sections need updating.

Onion Creek at a glance

Median

$550,000

Range

$400K – $900K

DOM

35 days

Built

1975 – 2010

To DT

30 min

HOA

Varies

Effective property tax

~2.08%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Onion Creek neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Onion Creek

Walk Score 12 / 100, Car-Dependent.

Bike

20

Transit

10

Groceries

18

Dining

15

Parks

55

Errands

12

Schools serving Onion Creek

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Rodriguez Elementary, rated 6/10
• Middle: Paredes Middle, rated 6/10
• High: Akins High, rated 5/10

Best for: Golf lifestyle, Hill Country views, value in South Austin

Full Onion Creek guide →

Garrison Park

South

South Austin’s hidden pocket of mid-century charm. Close in, surprisingly walkable to Stassney.

Garrison Park is a small, tight-knit South Austin neighborhood that flies under the radar. The housing stock is primarily 1960s–1970s ranch homes on modest lots, similar to North-Central neighborhoods but at a 30% discount. The namesake park anchors the community. Stassney Lane provides commercial access with H-E-B, restaurants, and services. It’s closer to downtown than most South Austin neighborhoods (15 minutes), which makes it a value play for buyers who want central proximity without central prices. The trade-off: the school feeder is weaker than the Circle C / Bowie zone.

Garrison Park at a glance

Median

$475,000

Range

$350K – $700K

DOM

20 days

Built

1960s – 1980s

To DT

15 min

HOA

None

Effective property tax

~2.10%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Garrison Park neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Garrison Park

Walk Score 35 / 100, Car-Dependent.

Bike

42

Transit

28

Groceries

40

Dining

35

Parks

55

Errands

35

Schools serving Garrison Park

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Joslin Elementary, rated 6/10
• Middle: Bedichek Middle, rated 6/10
• High: Crockett High, rated 5/10

Best for: Value buyers, close-in South Austin, investors, first homes

Full Garrison Park guide →

Slaughter Creek

South

Established South Austin. Early-2000s subdivisions, competitive prices, and Hays County access.

Slaughter Creek covers the subdivisions along Slaughter Lane west of I-35, south of William Cannon, where South Austin gives way to San Leanna and the Hays County line. The housing is mostly early-2000s subdivisions: Knolls at Slaughter Creek, Reserve at Slaughter Creek, Great Oaks, on lots with more room than anything comparable closer in. Homes here are zoned to Austin ISD: Menchaca Elementary, Bailey Middle, and Akins High. The trade-off is commute time, 30+ minutes to downtown in traffic, and the commercial infrastructure is still catching up to the rooftops. But for families who want a South Austin address, a yard, and a payment that pencils, the value is hard to argue with.

Slaughter Creek at a glance

Median

$410,000

Range

$320K – $500K

DOM

30 days

Built

Late 1990s – 2000s

To DT

30 min

HOA

$65/mo

Effective property tax

~2.15%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. For current metro conditions see the Austin housing market data.

Getting around Slaughter Creek

Walk Score 15 / 100, Car-Dependent.

Bike

22

Transit

10

Groceries

20

Dining

15

Parks

40

Errands

15

Schools serving Slaughter Creek

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Menchaca Elementary, rated 7/10
• Middle: Bailey Middle, rated 8/10
• High: Akins High, rated 5/10

Best for: New construction seekers, south-side commuters, budget-conscious families

East Austin

East

East of I-35, center of gravity. The restaurants, the murals, the construction cranes, all here.

East Austin proper, roughly the neighborhoods between I-35, Airport Boulevard, and the Colorado River, is the epicenter of Austin’s food scene. Suerte, Nixta Taqueria, Loro, and dozens more have made this the destination side of town. The housing stock is split between original 1920s–1950s bungalows (shrinking) and new construction townhomes and single-family (growing). Prices have climbed 150%+ in a decade. The cultural displacement is the elephant in the room. The neighborhood’s identity is being remade in real time. For buyers: come for the food and walkability, stay for the appreciation.

East Austin at a glance

Median

$725,000

Range

$450K – $1.5M

DOM

28 days

Built

1920s – 2020s

To DT

5 min

HOA

None

Effective property tax

~2.10%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The East Austin neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around East Austin

Walk Score 78 / 100, Very Walkable.

Bike

85

Transit

52

Groceries

72

Dining

92

Parks

68

Errands

75

Schools serving East Austin

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Sanchez Elementary, rated 6/10
• Middle: Martin Middle, rated 5/10
• High: Eastside Early College, rated 6/10

Best for: Foodies, walkability seekers, investors, new-construction buyers

Full East Austin guide →

Holly

East

Lady Bird Lake frontage meets East Austin energy. The neighborhood the condo developers discovered.

Holly is the East Austin neighborhood with the lake frontage. The former Holly Street Power Plant site is being redeveloped into parkland and mixed-use. Edward Rendon Sr. Park (formerly Festival Beach) hosts events year-round. The residential streets are a mix of original small homes and new townhome developments. Walkability to the hike-and-bike trail, East Cesar Chavez restaurants, and downtown is the draw. The neighborhood is smaller and more intimate than broader East Austin. Prices reflect the lake proximity premium, comparable to Travis Heights on the south side.

Holly at a glance

Median

$850,000

Range

$500K – $1.4M

DOM

30 days

Built

1940s – 2020s

To DT

5 min

HOA

None

Effective property tax

~2.05%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Holly neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Holly

Walk Score 80 / 100, Very Walkable.

Bike

82

Transit

50

Groceries

68

Dining

88

Parks

85

Errands

75

Schools serving Holly

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Sanchez Elementary, rated 6/10
• Middle: Martin Middle, rated 5/10
• High: Eastside Early College, rated 6/10

Best for: Lake access east side, walkability, downtown proximity at East Austin prices

Full Holly guide →

Windsor Park

East

The next North Loop. Mid-century homes, rising restaurants, and prices that haven’t peaked yet.

Windsor Park is the East Austin neighborhood that “in the know” buyers are targeting. The housing stock is 1950s–1960s ranch homes on generous lots, similar to Allandale but at a significant discount. The commercial development along Cameron Road and Berkman Drive is accelerating: breweries, restaurants, and the kind of retail that follows rooftops. The neighborhood is genuinely diverse and the community engagement is strong. Mueller is next door, which provides commercial amenity spillover. The trade-off: some blocks are rougher than others, and the school options are weaker than North-Central.

Windsor Park at a glance

Median

$550,000

Range

$375K – $850K

DOM

24 days

Built

1950s – 1970s

To DT

12 min

HOA

None

Effective property tax

~2.12%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Windsor Park neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Windsor Park

Walk Score 52 / 100, Somewhat Walkable.

Bike

65

Transit

38

Groceries

55

Dining

48

Parks

58

Errands

50

Schools serving Windsor Park

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Harris Elementary, rated 6/10
• Middle: Garcia YMLA, rated 7/10
• High: LBJ Early College, rated 7/10

Best for: Value buyers, early movers, Mueller-adjacent living at half the price

Full Windsor Park guide →

Cherrywood

East

The bridge between Hyde Park and East Austin. Walkable, diverse, and anchored by genuine neighborhood spots.

Cherrywood sits at the intersection of everything: Hyde Park to the west, Mueller to the north, East Austin to the south, UT to the southwest. The Cherrywood Coffeehouse is the neighborhood anchor. The French Legation Museum sits on its southern edge. Housing is a mix of 1930s–1960s homes, many with genuine character and mature trees. The street grid is walkable and bikeable. Prices are above East Austin proper but below Hyde Park, making it a “Goldilocks” option for buyers who want central location with neighborhood feel.

Cherrywood at a glance

Median

$700,000

Range

$475K – $1.2M

DOM

26 days

Built

1930s – 1960s

To DT

8 min

HOA

None

Effective property tax

~2.08%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Cherrywood neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Cherrywood

Walk Score 72 / 100, Very Walkable.

Bike

82

Transit

45

Groceries

70

Dining

75

Parks

65

Errands

70

Schools serving Cherrywood

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Maplewood Elementary, rated 7/10
• Middle: Garcia YMLA, rated 7/10
• High: LBJ Early College, rated 7/10

Best for: Walkability seekers, UT faculty, buyers bridging east and central

Full Cherrywood guide →

University Hills

East

The value play east of 183. Larger lots, lower prices, and a neighborhood on the move.

University Hills is the East Austin neighborhood that budget-conscious buyers should know about. Located east of US-183 and north of MLK, it offers 1960s–1970s ranch homes on lots that are significantly larger than anything you’ll find in central Austin. Prices are 40–50% below comparable North-Central neighborhoods. The commercial development along Cameron Road is improving. The neighborhood is diverse, family-oriented, and connected to downtown via Airport Boulevard. The trade-off: school ratings are below the city average, and commercial amenities are still developing.

University Hills at a glance

Median

$425,000

Range

$300K – $600K

DOM

22 days

Built

1960s – 1980s

To DT

15 min

HOA

None

Effective property tax

~2.15%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. For current metro conditions see the Austin housing market data.

Getting around University Hills

Walk Score 38 / 100, Car-Dependent.

Bike

48

Transit

30

Groceries

40

Dining

32

Parks

45

Errands

35

Schools serving University Hills

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Harris Elementary, rated 6/10
• Middle: Dobie Middle, rated 5/10
• High: LBJ Early College, rated 7/10

Best for: Value buyers, large lots, diverse community, investors

Manor

East

Small-town Texas 15 minutes from downtown. The suburban frontier with room to run.

Manor is the eastern frontier of the Austin metro. A small Texas town that’s being absorbed by the region’s growth. New master-planned communities (ShadowGlen, Presidential Meadows) offer modern construction at prices that make central Austin buyers do a double-take. The old town center retains small-town charm. Manor ISD is investing in new campuses. Tesla’s Gigafactory and Samsung’s fab are both within commuting distance, which is driving demand from east-side workers. The trade-off: it’s still a frontier: commercial development, dining, and cultural amenities are thin.

Manor at a glance

Median

$375,000

Range

$275K – $500K

DOM

35 days

Built

2005 – present

To DT

20 min

HOA

$50/mo

Effective property tax

~2.20%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. For current metro conditions see the Austin housing market data.

Getting around Manor

Walk Score 10 / 100, Car-Dependent.

Bike

15

Transit

8

Groceries

15

Dining

10

Parks

30

Errands

10

Schools serving Manor

District: Manor ISD

• Elem: Manor Elem, rated 6/10
• Middle: Manor Middle, rated 5/10
• High: Manor High / New Tech, rated 6/10

Best for: Budget buyers, Tesla/Samsung commuters, new construction seekers

Westlake Hills

West & Hill Country

Eanes ISD. That’s the pitch. Everything else, the hills, the views, the address, is a bonus.

Westlake Hills is the Austin metro’s most sought-after school district address. Eanes ISD consistently ranks among the top districts in Texas, and Westlake High School’s academic and athletic programs draw families from across the country. The housing stock ranges from 1970s ranch homes on wooded lots to contemporary $5M+ estates with Hill Country views. The Barton Creek corridor runs through the area. Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, and the Hill Country Galleria provide commercial amenity. The trade-off: property taxes are high (Eanes ISD’s tax rate is one of the highest in the metro), and the car-dependent lifestyle is non-negotiable.

Westlake Hills at a glance

Median

$1,650,000

Range

$900K – $5M+

DOM

42 days

Built

1970s – 2020s

To DT

18 min

HOA

Varies

Effective property tax

~2.25%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Westlake Hills neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Westlake Hills

Walk Score 15 / 100, Car-Dependent.

Bike

22

Transit

12

Groceries

20

Dining

18

Parks

45

Errands

15

Schools serving Westlake Hills

District: Eanes ISD

• Elem: Eanes Elementary, rated 10/10
• Middle: West Ridge Middle, rated 9/10
• High: Westlake High, rated 10/10

Best for: School-district-first families, luxury buyers, coastal transplants

Full Westlake Hills guide →

Bee Cave

West & Hill Country

Hill Country Galleria, Eanes ISD overflow, and the suburban luxury that West Austin runs on.

Bee Cave is the commercial hub of West Austin: the Hill Country Galleria, Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, and a growing restaurant scene centered on the Backyard at Bee Cave amphitheater site. The residential areas range from established communities like Falconhead (golf course, resort-style pools) to newer luxury developments. Some areas feed into Eanes ISD, others into Lake Travis ISD, check the boundaries carefully. The town has incorporated and invested in its downtown area. The trade-off: 71/620 traffic is real, especially during school hours.

Bee Cave at a glance

Median

$950,000

Range

$650K – $2.5M

DOM

38 days

Built

2000 – present

To DT

25 min

HOA

$100–$200/mo

Effective property tax

~2.18%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Bee Cave neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Bee Cave

Walk Score 22 / 100, Car-Dependent.

Bike

25

Transit

10

Groceries

35

Dining

30

Parks

40

Errands

22

Schools serving Bee Cave

District: Eanes ISD / Lake Travis ISD

• Elem: Bee Cave Elem, rated 9/10
• Middle: Bee Cave Middle, rated 8/10
• High: Westlake / LT High, rated 9/10

Best for: West Austin lifestyle, commercial amenity, Eanes ISD access

Full Bee Cave guide →

Lakeway

West & Hill Country

Lake Travis resort town turned permanent address. Golf, marinas, and the lake lifestyle, full-time.

Lakeway started as a resort community on Lake Travis and evolved into a full-time residential city. The Lakeway Resort and Spa, multiple golf courses (Flintrock Falls, Hills of Lakeway, Live Oak), and marina access define the lifestyle. Housing ranges from lakefront estates to more modest homes in the older sections. Lake Travis ISD is solid and improving. The Oasis on Lake Travis and the growing restaurant scene along RR 620 provide dining. The trade-off: you’re 30–40 minutes from downtown Austin, and the 620 corridor is one of the most congested in the metro.

Lakeway at a glance

Median

$850,000

Range

$500K – $3M+

DOM

40 days

Built

1980s – 2020s

To DT

35 min

HOA

$80–$150/mo

Effective property tax

~2.15%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Lakeway neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Lakeway

Walk Score 12 / 100, Car-Dependent.

Bike

18

Transit

5

Groceries

22

Dining

20

Parks

48

Errands

12

Schools serving Lakeway

District: Lake Travis ISD

• Elem: Lakeway Elementary, rated 8/10
• Middle: Hudson Bend Middle, rated 7/10
• High: Lake Travis High, rated 8/10

Best for: Lake lifestyle, golf families, retirees, resort-town living

Full Lakeway guide →

Dripping Springs

West & Hill Country

The wedding capital of Texas is now a real town. Hill Country authenticity 25 minutes from MoPac.

Dripping Springs has grown from a sleepy Hill Country crossroads into a legitimate small town with a thriving downtown strip. The wedding and events venue industry put it on the map, but the residential growth is what’s reshaping it. New master-planned communities (Caliterra, Headwaters, Belterra) offer modern homes with Hill Country views. The old town center has craft breweries, restaurants, and local shops. Dripping Springs ISD is well-regarded and growing. The trade-off: it’s a real commute to Austin (30–45 minutes), and the growth is straining infrastructure.

Dripping Springs at a glance

Median

$700,000

Range

$450K – $1.5M

DOM

35 days

Built

2005 – present

To DT

35 min

HOA

$70–$120/mo

Effective property tax

~2.10%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Dripping Springs neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Dripping Springs

Walk Score 8 / 100, Car-Dependent.

Bike

12

Transit

5

Groceries

15

Dining

12

Parks

35

Errands

8

Schools serving Dripping Springs

District: Dripping Springs ISD

• Elem: Walnut Springs Elem, rated 8/10
• Middle: Dripping Springs Middle, rated 8/10
• High: Dripping Springs High, rated 8/10

Best for: Hill Country lifestyle, growing families, brewery/wine scene, remote workers

Full Dripping Springs guide →

Barton Creek

West & Hill Country

Gated luxury on the greenbelt. The country-club community that set the standard for West Austin.

Barton Creek is the gated, master-planned community anchored by the Omni Barton Creek Resort and Spa and its four championship golf courses. The residential sections (Amarra Drive, Wimberly Lane, the Estates) offer large lots, custom homes, and a level of exclusivity that few Austin communities match. Eanes ISD schools serve the area. The greenbelt provides natural buffer. The resident amenities include pools, tennis, and a clubhouse. The trade-off: the gated nature limits walkability and creates a bubble feel. HOA fees and gate maintenance add to the cost of ownership.

Barton Creek at a glance

Median

$1,800,000

Range

$1M – $5M+

DOM

55 days

Built

1986 – 2020s

To DT

22 min

HOA

$250–$400/mo

Effective property tax

~2.20%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Barton Creek neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Barton Creek

Walk Score 5 / 100, Car-Dependent.

Bike

8

Transit

2

Groceries

10

Dining

8

Parks

55

Errands

5

Schools serving Barton Creek

District: Eanes ISD

• Elem: Eanes Elementary, rated 10/10
• Middle: West Ridge Middle, rated 9/10
• High: Westlake High, rated 10/10

Best for: Gated luxury, golf lifestyle, Eanes ISD, maximum privacy

Full Barton Creek guide →

Steiner Ranch

West & Hill Country

The master plan that Lake Travis ISD runs on. Pools, trails, lake access, and 10,000 neighbors.

Steiner Ranch is the largest master-planned community in the Lake Travis ISD corridor, home to roughly 10,000 residents across multiple villages. The amenity package is comprehensive: community pools, playgrounds, sports courts, miles of trails, and a private boat launch on Lake Austin. Lake Travis ISD schools are the draw, with Steiner Ranch Elementary consistently top-rated. The housing stock ranges from townhomes to large single-family on the ridge lots with lake views. The trade-off: 620 traffic is brutal during peak hours, and the community’s scale means it can feel more suburban than exclusive.

Steiner Ranch at a glance

Median

$750,000

Range

$500K – $1.5M

DOM

30 days

Built

1998 – 2015

To DT

28 min

HOA

$90/mo

Effective property tax

~2.12%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Steiner Ranch neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Steiner Ranch

Walk Score 10 / 100, Car-Dependent.

Bike

15

Transit

5

Groceries

18

Dining

12

Parks

55

Errands

10

Schools serving Steiner Ranch

District: Leander ISD / Lake Travis ISD

• Elem: Steiner Ranch Elem, rated 9/10
• Middle: Canyon Ridge Middle, rated 8/10
• High: Vandegrift High, rated 9/10

Best for: Families, Lake Travis ISD, community amenities, lake access

Full Steiner Ranch guide →

Cedar Park

North Suburbs

Leander ISD, tech corridor access, and the suburban family neighborhood that actually delivers.

Cedar Park is the northern suburb that most relocating families land in when they’re targeting Leander ISD and tech-corridor proximity. The 1890 Ranch shopping center anchors the commercial life. The H-E-B Center (now Comerica Center) hosts the Texas Stars hockey and Austin Spurs basketball. Housing is predominantly 2000s–2010s construction with some newer sections. The Brushy Creek trail system provides green space. Apple’s campus is a short commute. The trade-off: 183 traffic during rush hour is the bottleneck, and the dining scene is more chains than independents.

Cedar Park at a glance

Median

$525,000

Range

$375K – $800K

DOM

28 days

Built

1998 – 2018

To DT

28 min

HOA

$50–$80/mo

Effective property tax

~2.18%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Cedar Park neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Cedar Park

Walk Score 25 / 100, Car-Dependent.

Bike

35

Transit

15

Groceries

35

Dining

28

Parks

48

Errands

25

Schools serving Cedar Park

District: Leander ISD

• Elem: Whitestone Elem, rated 8/10
• Middle: Running Brushy Middle, rated 8/10
• High: Vista Ridge High, rated 8/10

Best for: Tech corridor families, Leander ISD, suburban amenities

Full Cedar Park guide →

Round Rock

North Suburbs

Dell’s hometown. Round Rock ISD, outlet malls, and the most complete suburban package north of Austin.

Round Rock is the most established northern suburb, anchored by Dell Technologies’ headquarters and Round Rock ISD, one of the top-performing large districts in Texas. The city has invested in its downtown (Main Street is walkable, with local restaurants and shops), and the Dell Diamond (minor-league baseball) provides entertainment. Housing ranges from 1980s established neighborhoods near downtown to brand-new master plans on the northern edge. The outlet malls and big-box retail along I-35 mean you rarely need to drive to Austin for shopping.

Round Rock at a glance

Median

$475,000

Range

$325K – $750K

DOM

25 days

Built

1985 – 2020s

To DT

25 min

HOA

$40–$70/mo

Effective property tax

~2.22%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Round Rock neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Round Rock

Walk Score 28 / 100, Car-Dependent.

Bike

38

Transit

18

Groceries

38

Dining

32

Parks

45

Errands

28

Schools serving Round Rock

District: Round Rock ISD

• Elem: Fern Bluff Elem, rated 9/10
• Middle: Walsh Middle, rated 8/10
• High: Westwood High, rated 9/10

Best for: Dell families, Round Rock ISD priority, established suburban living

Full Round Rock guide →

Pflugerville

North Suburbs

The value play of the tech corridor. Diverse, growing, and significantly cheaper than Cedar Park.

Pflugerville (yes, the P is silent) is the northern suburb that offers the most house for the money. Located east of I-35, it’s historically been the more affordable alternative to Cedar Park and Round Rock. Lake Pflugerville provides waterfront recreation. Stone Hill Town Center is the commercial anchor. Pflugerville ISD is improving and investing in new campuses. The community is genuinely diverse, one of the most diverse in the metro. Samsung’s fab and Tesla’s Gigafactory are within commuting distance. The trade-off: the “Pflugerville” name still carries a perception gap with some buyers, and I-35 traffic is a daily reality.

Pflugerville at a glance

Median

$425,000

Range

$300K – $650K

DOM

22 days

Built

2000 – present

To DT

22 min

HOA

$45–$65/mo

Effective property tax

~2.25%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Pflugerville neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Pflugerville

Walk Score 22 / 100, Car-Dependent.

Bike

30

Transit

12

Groceries

30

Dining

22

Parks

42

Errands

20

Schools serving Pflugerville

District: Pflugerville ISD

• Elem: Murchison Elem, rated 7/10
• Middle: Kelly Lane Middle, rated 7/10
• High: Hendrickson High, rated 7/10

Best for: Value buyers, diverse community, Samsung/Tesla commuters

Full Pflugerville guide →

Georgetown

North Suburbs

The most beautiful town square in Texas, plus Sun City. Where retirees and young families coexist surprisingly well.

Georgetown has the most charming downtown square in the Austin metro: Victorian-era buildings housing local restaurants, shops, and the kind of small-town energy that relocating families from the Northeast find irresistible. Blue Hole swimming area and the San Gabriel River provide natural recreation. Sun City is the 55+ Del Webb community that draws retirees from across the country. Georgetown ISD is strong and investing in growth. The trade-off: it’s 30–40 minutes from Austin proper, and the growth along I-35 between Georgetown and Round Rock is straining the highway.

Georgetown at a glance

Median

$450,000

Range

$300K – $800K

DOM

30 days

Built

2000 – present

To DT

35 min

HOA

$50–$80/mo

Effective property tax

~2.20%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Georgetown neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Georgetown

Walk Score 30 / 100, Car-Dependent.

Bike

35

Transit

12

Groceries

32

Dining

35

Parks

50

Errands

28

Schools serving Georgetown

District: Georgetown ISD

• Elem: Pickett Elementary, rated 8/10
• Middle: Tippit Middle, rated 7/10
• High: Georgetown High, rated 8/10

Best for: Town-square lovers, retirees (Sun City), families wanting small-town feel near metro

Full Georgetown guide →

Leander

North Suburbs

The growth frontier. New construction, Leander ISD, and prices that make Cedar Park look expensive.

Leander is the outermost ring of the northern corridor that still feeds into Leander ISD, which makes it the value play for families who want the district without the Cedar Park price tag. The MetroRail Red Line terminates at Leander Station, providing (slow) commuter rail access to downtown Austin. Crystal Falls and other master-planned communities offer new construction with full amenity packages. The town is investing in its own identity with a growing downtown area. The trade-off: you’re 35–45 minutes from downtown, and the commercial infrastructure is still being built.

Leander at a glance

Median

$425,000

Range

$300K – $650K

DOM

30 days

Built

2008 – present

To DT

38 min

HOA

$50–$75/mo

Effective property tax

~2.22%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Leander neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Leander

Walk Score 15 / 100, Car-Dependent.

Bike

22

Transit

15

Groceries

22

Dining

18

Parks

38

Errands

15

Schools serving Leander

District: Leander ISD

• Elem: Cox Elementary, rated 8/10
• Middle: Leander Middle, rated 7/10
• High: Leander High, rated 8/10

Best for: Budget-conscious families, Leander ISD, new construction, MetroRail access

Full Leander guide →

Hutto

North Suburbs

The hippo town. Small-town Texas identity with Austin metro proximity and builder-incentive pricing.

Hutto is the small town northeast of Round Rock that’s been swallowed by metro growth but retains its identity, anchored by the concrete hippo statue on Main Street and a genuine small-town downtown. New master-planned communities (Star Ranch, Legends of Hutto) offer builder-incentive pricing that’s some of the lowest in the metro. Hutto ISD is growing and building new campuses. The SH 130 toll road provides a congestion-free route south to the Samsung/Tesla corridor. The trade-off: it’s 40+ minutes to downtown Austin, and the “small town” commercial options are still thin.

Hutto at a glance

Median

$375,000

Range

$275K – $525K

DOM

35 days

Built

2010 – present

To DT

40 min

HOA

$45–$60/mo

Effective property tax

~2.28%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. For current metro conditions see the Austin housing market data.

Getting around Hutto

Walk Score 10 / 100, Car-Dependent.

Bike

15

Transit

5

Groceries

15

Dining

10

Parks

28

Errands

10

Schools serving Hutto

District: Hutto ISD

• Elem: Hutto Elementary, rated 7/10
• Middle: Farley Middle, rated 6/10
• High: Hutto High, rated 7/10

Best for: Maximum value, new construction, small-town feel near the metro

Oak Hill

Southwest

The “Y” is finally getting fixed. Once the construction clears, Oak Hill is the west-side value play.

Oak Hill has been defined by traffic. The infamous “Y at Oak Hill” where US 290 and SH 71 meet was Austin’s worst bottleneck for decades. The TxDOT reconstruction finished in April 2026, and Oak Hill is making the turn from a “drive through” to a “drive to.” The housing stock is a mix of 1970s–1990s homes on larger Hill Country lots, many with mature oaks and genuine character. Prices are 30–40% below Westlake for comparable square footage. Some areas feed into Eanes ISD. The trade-off: the commercial corridor is still dominated by strip malls, and it will take time for retail to catch up to the new interchange.

Oak Hill at a glance

Median

$650,000

Range

$425K – $1.1M

DOM

32 days

Built

1975 – 2000

To DT

22 min

HOA

Varies

Effective property tax

~2.05%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Oak Hill neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Oak Hill

Walk Score 15 / 100, Car-Dependent.

Bike

22

Transit

10

Groceries

25

Dining

18

Parks

40

Errands

15

Schools serving Oak Hill

District: Austin ISD / Eanes ISD

• Elem: Patton Elementary, rated 7/10
• Middle: Small Middle, rated 7/10
• High: Bowie / Austin High, rated 8/10

Best for: West-side value, Hill Country lots, post-construction appreciation play

Full Oak Hill guide →

Sunset Valley

Southwest

A tiny city inside Austin with its own tax rate and a surprisingly walkable commercial core.

Sunset Valley is an incorporated city of less than one square mile, surrounded entirely by Austin. Its claim to fame: no city property tax (the city runs on sales tax from the Brodie Oaks and Sunset Valley shopping centers). The residential areas are primarily 1950s–1970s homes on mature lots. Walkability to H-E-B, restaurants, and retail is surprisingly good for a suburban-esque area. AISD schools serve the community. The trade-off: the housing stock is older and inventory is extremely limited: homes here don’t come up often, and when they do, they move fast.

Sunset Valley at a glance

Median

$725,000

Range

$500K – $1M

DOM

18 days

Built

1955 – 1975

To DT

15 min

HOA

None

Effective property tax

~1.55%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. The Sunset Valley neighborhood page carries the current Unlock MLS median for the whole ZIP, measured over a later window, so the two will not match.

Getting around Sunset Valley

Walk Score 45 / 100, Car-Dependent.

Bike

50

Transit

28

Groceries

55

Dining

42

Parks

40

Errands

45

Schools serving Sunset Valley

District: Austin ISD

• Elem: Joslin Elementary, rated 6/10
• Middle: Bedichek Middle, rated 6/10
• High: Crockett High, rated 5/10

Best for: Tax-advantaged buyers, walkable suburban, rare inventory seekers

Full Sunset Valley guide →

Buda

Southwest

“The Outdoor Capital of Texas.” Small-town Hays County with Austin commuter access via I-35.

Buda sits just south of Austin in Hays County and bills itself as the “Outdoor Capital of Texas.” The old downtown has a handful of local restaurants and shops. New master-planned communities (Sunfield, Whispering Hollow) offer modern construction at prices significantly below Austin city limits. Hays CISD is the school district, growing rapidly and investing in facilities. I-35 provides the commute corridor, and SH 45 connects to MoPac for west-side access. The trade-off: I-35 South traffic is a daily grind, and the “small town” identity is being tested by the growth.

Buda at a glance

Median

$400,000

Range

$300K – $600K

DOM

28 days

Built

2008 – present

To DT

25 min

HOA

$50–$70/mo

Effective property tax

~2.30%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. For current metro conditions see the Austin housing market data.

Getting around Buda

Walk Score 12 / 100, Car-Dependent.

Bike

18

Transit

8

Groceries

18

Dining

15

Parks

35

Errands

12

Schools serving Buda

District: Hays CISD

• Elem: Elm Grove Elementary, rated 7/10
• Middle: Barton Middle, rated 7/10
• High: Hays High, rated 7/10

Best for: Value buyers, Hays County, new construction, I-35 South commuters

Kyle

Southwest

The fastest-growing city in Texas. Builder incentives, young families, and the I-35 value frontier.

Kyle has been one of the fastest-growing cities in America for the past decade, and the growth shows: new master-planned communities stretch along both sides of I-35, offering brand-new homes at the lowest price points in the Austin metro. Plum Creek, Post Oak, and Waterleaf are the established names. Hays CISD serves the area with new campuses. The Seton Medical Center provides healthcare. Kyle’s own downtown is investing in identity. The trade-off: it’s 30–40 minutes to downtown Austin, the commercial options are still maturing, and the rapid growth has outpaced some infrastructure.

Kyle at a glance

Median

$350,000

Range

$250K – $500K

DOM

32 days

Built

2010 – present

To DT

32 min

HOA

$45–$65/mo

Effective property tax

~2.35%

Figures above are Q1 2025, and days on market is list-to-pending. For current metro conditions see the Austin housing market data.

Getting around Kyle

Walk Score 10 / 100, Car-Dependent.

Bike

15

Transit

5

Groceries

15

Dining

10

Parks

30

Errands

10

Schools serving Kyle

District: Hays CISD

• Elem: Negley Elementary, rated 7/10
• Middle: Simon Middle, rated 6/10
• High: Lehman High, rated 6/10

Best for: First-time buyers, maximum value, young families, I-35 South corridor