20 Best Austin Neighborhoods: 2025 Real Estate Analysis & Home Buyer's Guide
- Jen Berbas
- May 25
- 17 min read
Austin Neighborhood Selection Guide: Finding Your Perfect Match
Austin, Texas continues to rank among America's most desirable cities, attracting newcomers with its vibrant culture, strong job market, and exceptional quality of life. With so many diverse neighborhoods across the city, finding your ideal location requires understanding the unique characteristics, housing markets, amenities, and community features of each area.
This comprehensive Austin neighborhood guide provides detailed market analysis, lifestyle insights, and key statistics to help homebuyers identify their perfect match among Austin's best residential areas. Whether you're seeking family-friendly suburbs, walkable urban districts, or luxury estates, this 2025 analysis covers the factors that matter most: housing prices, architectural styles, school quality, commute times, and neighborhood amenities.
Central Austin Neighborhoods: Urban Living with Character and Convenience
Central Austin neighborhoods offer proximity to downtown, established character, and often the highest appreciation rates in the city. These areas typically feature mature trees, historic homes, and walkable access to restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions.
Tarrytown (78703): Luxury Living in Austin's Prestigious Core
Tarrytown Real Estate Market Overview (2025):
Median home price: $1,850,000
Price per square foot: $725
Average home size: 2,550 sq ft
Typical lot size: 0.25-0.5 acres
Year-over-year appreciation: 6.8%
Average days on market: 18
Tarrytown represents Austin's old-money elegance, featuring stately homes on tree-lined streets just minutes from downtown. This prestigious neighborhood attracts executives, physicians, attorneys, and established families seeking both luxury and central location.
The housing stock primarily consists of renovated mid-century homes, traditional estates, and some newer luxury construction. Many properties feature meticulous landscaping, swimming pools, and architectural details not found in newer developments.
Tarrytown Neighborhood Highlights:
Schools: Casis Elementary (9/10), O. Henry Middle School (8/10), Austin High School (7/10)
Shopping: Tarrytown Shopping Center, Randall's, specialty boutiques
Parks: Reed Park, Mayfield Park and Preserve, Lions Municipal Golf Course
Dining: Fabi + Rosi, Cookbook Cafe, Maudie's Cafe, Sweetish Hill Bakery
Commute: 8 minutes to downtown Austin, 20 minutes to Domain
Why homebuyers choose Tarrytown: Prestige, property value stability, exceptional location, established community, and architectural character make Tarrytown particularly attractive for luxury buyers seeking Austin's most desirable central address.
Allandale (78757): Classic Mid-Century Charm with Family Appeal
Allandale Real Estate Market Overview (2025):
Median home price: $925,000
Price per square foot: $510
Average home size: 1,800 sq ft
Typical lot size: 0.15-0.25 acres
Year-over-year appreciation: 7.5%
Average days on market: 15
Allandale represents quintessential Central Austin living with its tree-canopied streets, classic 1950s-60s ranch homes, and strong community identity. Located in North Central Austin, this neighborhood attracts a diverse mix of young families, professionals, and longtime residents.
The housing inventory primarily features well-maintained mid-century homes, many with updates and expansions while maintaining original character. Recent years have seen increased luxury renovation activity, with some original homes being replaced with larger custom builds.
Allandale Neighborhood Highlights:
Schools: Gullett Elementary (8/10), Lamar Middle School (7/10), McCallum High School (8/10)
Shopping: Burnet Road retail corridor, Allandale Shopping Center, H-E-B
Parks: Northwest District Park, Beverly S. Sheffield Northwest Park, Shoal Creek Greenbelt
Dining: Fonda San Miguel, Uchiko, Tacodeli, Eldorado Cafe
Commute: 12 minutes to downtown Austin, 15 minutes to Domain
Why homebuyers choose Allandale: Established neighborhood stability, excellent location, strong community involvement, and classic homes with good lot sizes make Allandale particularly attractive for young professionals and families seeking an authentic Austin experience.
Rosedale (78756): Charming Bungalows in a Walkable Setting
Rosedale Real Estate Market Overview (2025):
Median home price: $980,000
Price per square foot: $580
Average home size: 1,650 sq ft
Typical lot size: 0.12-0.2 acres
Year-over-year appreciation: 7.3%
Average days on market: 14
Rosedale offers quintessential Central Austin charm with its eclectic mix of 1930s-40s bungalows, cottage-style homes, and some newer construction. Located just north of downtown, this walkable neighborhood attracts young professionals, creative types, and families who value proximity to urban amenities.
Housing options range from lovingly preserved historic homes to contemporary rebuilds, with most properties featuring characteristic front porches and mature landscaping. Recent years have seen increased renovation activity and some lot subdivisions.
Rosedale Neighborhood Highlights:
Schools: Bryker Woods Elementary (8/10), O. Henry Middle School (8/10), Austin High School (7/10)
Shopping: Central Market, Bryker Woods Shopping Center, local boutiques
Parks: Ramsey Park, Shoal Creek Greenbelt
Dining: Fonda San Miguel, Epicerie, Uchiko, Kerbey Lane Cafe
Commute: 10 minutes to downtown Austin, 18 minutes to Domain
Why homebuyers choose Rosedale: Walkability, central location, architectural character, and strong community identity make Rosedale particularly attractive for professionals and small families seeking a quintessential central Austin lifestyle.
Northwest Hills (78731): Elevated Views with Executive Appeal
Northwest Hills Real Estate Market Overview (2025):
Median home price: $1,150,000
Price per square foot: $475
Average home size: 2,400 sq ft
Typical lot size: 0.25-0.4 acres
Year-over-year appreciation: 6.5%
Average days on market: 22
Northwest Hills offers spectacular hillside views combined with spacious homes and a serene atmosphere. This established neighborhood attracts executives, medical professionals, and successful families seeking a combination of luxury, space, and reasonable proximity to downtown.
Housing options include well-maintained 1970s-80s traditional homes, renovated mid-century properties, and some newer luxury construction. Many homes feature sweeping city views, generous yards, and architectural details characteristic of their era.
Northwest Hills Neighborhood Highlights:
Schools: Doss Elementary (9/10), Murchison Middle School (8/10), Anderson High School (9/10)
Shopping: Randall's Shopping Center, Far West retail area
Parks: Bull Creek District Park, Allen Park
Dining: Siena Ristorante Toscana, Chez Zee, Cover 3
Commute: 15 minutes to downtown Austin, 12 minutes to Domain
Why homebuyers choose Northwest Hills: Views, spacious properties, excellent schools, and mature landscaping make Northwest Hills particularly attractive for established families and professionals seeking a prestigious address with natural beauty.
East Austin Neighborhoods: Cultural Vibrancy with Strong Appreciation
East Austin continues to experience dramatic transformation, with historically affordable neighborhoods now commanding premium prices due to proximity to downtown, cultural attractions, and dining destinations.
Cherrywood (78722): Eclectic Charm with Creative Energy
Cherrywood Real Estate Market Overview (2025):
Median home price: $795,000
Price per square foot: $520
Average home size: 1,500 sq ft
Typical lot size: 0.1-0.15 acres
Year-over-year appreciation: 9.2%
Average days on market: 12
Cherrywood epitomizes East Austin's creative spirit with its diverse housing stock, walkable streets, and vibrant community atmosphere. Located just east of I-35 near the University of Texas, this neighborhood attracts academics, artists, young professionals, and families seeking an eclectic urban lifestyle.
Housing options include 1940s-50s bungalows, mid-century cottages, and some contemporary infill development. Most properties feature character details and modest lot sizes, with many showcasing artistic renovations and creative landscaping.
Cherrywood Neighborhood Highlights:
Schools: Maplewood Elementary (6/10), Kealing Middle School (8/10), McCallum High School (8/10)
Shopping: Mueller Retail Center, locally-owned boutiques, vintage shops
Parks: Patterson Park, Willowbrook Reach, Cherrywood Green
Dining: Hoover's Cooking, Patrizi's, Thunderbird Coffee, Mi Madre's
Commute: 8 minutes to downtown Austin, 12 minutes to University of Texas
Why homebuyers choose Cherrywood: Cultural diversity, walkability, proximity to UT, and unique housing character make Cherrywood particularly attractive for creative professionals and academics seeking an authentic Austin experience.
Windsor Park (78723): Emerging Value with Rapid Transformation
Windsor Park Real Estate Market Overview (2025):
Median home price: $650,000
Price per square foot: $420
Average home size: 1,450 sq ft
Typical lot size: 0.15-0.2 acres
Year-over-year appreciation: 10.5%
Average days on market: 10
Windsor Park represents one of Austin's most rapidly appreciating neighborhoods, offering relative value with convenient access to downtown, Mueller, and major employers. This diverse community attracts young families, first-time homebuyers, and investors seeking appreciation potential.
Housing stock primarily consists of 1950s-60s ranch-style homes, many of which have been renovated or rebuilt in recent years. The neighborhood continues to experience significant transformation with infill development and property upgrades throughout the area.
Windsor Park Neighborhood Highlights:
Schools: Blanton Elementary (6/10), Garcia Young Men's Leadership Academy (6/10), Reagan High School (5/10)
Shopping: Mueller Retail Center, Capital Plaza, H-E-B
Parks: Bartholomew District Park, Pomerleau Pocket Park
Dining: Hank's, Kerbey Lane Cafe, El Nuevo Mexico, Paco's Tacos
Commute: 12 minutes to downtown Austin, 5 minutes to Mueller, 15 minutes to Domain
Why homebuyers choose Windsor Park: Strong appreciation potential, relative affordability compared to central neighborhoods, and proximity to major employment centers make Windsor Park particularly attractive for first-time homebuyers and investors.
North Austin Neighborhoods: Family-Friendly Environments with Value
North Austin communities offer more affordable housing options while maintaining good access to major employers, particularly tech companies located along the Domain/Tech Ridge corridor.
Milwood (78727/78729): Family-Focused Suburban Appeal
Milwood Real Estate Market Overview (2025):
Median home price: $575,000
Price per square foot: $325
Average home size: 1,850 sq ft
Typical lot size: 0.15-0.2 acres
Year-over-year appreciation: 8.3%
Average days on market: 14
Milwood represents quintessential suburban living in North Austin, with well-maintained homes, family-friendly amenities, and convenient access to major employers. This established neighborhood attracts families, tech professionals, and first-time homebuyers seeking value and good schools.
Housing options include primarily 1980s-90s traditional homes, featuring open floor plans, moderate-sized yards, and some updated interiors. The neighborhood has seen steady appreciation with limited new construction due to built-out status.
Milwood Neighborhood Highlights:
Schools: Pond Springs Elementary (8/10), Deerpark Middle School (7/10), McNeil High School (8/10)
Shopping: H-E-B Plus, Lakeline Mall, Parmer Crossing
Parks: Balcones District Park, Rattan Creek Park
Dining: Tortuga Flats, Asia Cafe, Changos Taqueria
Commute: 20 minutes to downtown Austin, 8 minutes to Domain, 12 minutes to Apple campus
Why homebuyers choose Milwood: Excellent schools, family-friendly atmosphere, relative affordability, and proximity to major tech employers make Milwood particularly attractive for families and tech industry professionals.
Scofield Farms (78727): Executive Homes with Tech Corridor Convenience
Scofield Farms Real Estate Market Overview (2025):
Median home price: $625,000
Price per square foot: $340
Average home size: 2,100 sq ft
Typical lot size: 0.15-0.25 acres
Year-over-year appreciation: 7.9%
Average days on market: 16
Scofield Farms offers an upscale North Austin experience with executive homes, well-maintained common areas, and convenient access to major tech employers. This master-planned community attracts technology professionals, healthcare workers, and families seeking spacious homes and good schools.
Housing inventory consists primarily of traditional and transitional-style homes built in the 1990s-2000s, many featuring upgraded interiors, landscaped yards, and community amenities. The neighborhood has experienced steady appreciation with minimal turnover due to resident satisfaction.
Scofield Farms Neighborhood Highlights:
Schools: Scofield Ridge Elementary (8/10), Westview Middle School (7/10), Connally High School (6/10)
Shopping: Tech Ridge Center, H-E-B, Walnut Creek Shopping Center
Parks: Scofield Farms Park, Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park
Dining: Michi Ramen, Dos Batos, Tarka Indian Kitchen
Commute: 22 minutes to downtown Austin, 10 minutes to Domain, 5 minutes to Apple campus
Why homebuyers choose Scofield Farms: Proximity to tech employers, well-maintained community, larger homes, and good value compared to central neighborhoods make Scofield Farms particularly attractive for technology professionals and upper-middle-income families.
Quail Creek (78753/78758): Affordable Entry with Convenient Location
Quail Creek Real Estate Market Overview (2025):
Median home price: $450,000
Price per square foot: $290
Average home size: 1,550 sq ft
Typical lot size: 0.15-0.2 acres
Year-over-year appreciation: 9.5%
Average days on market: 12
Quail Creek offers one of North Austin's most affordable established neighborhoods, featuring ranch-style homes, convenient location near major transportation corridors, and proximity to the Q2 Stadium. This diverse community attracts first-time homebuyers, investors, and young families seeking value with good access to employment centers.
Housing options include primarily 1970s-80s ranch-style homes on moderate lots, with many properties seeing interior updates and some expansion projects. The neighborhood has experienced accelerated appreciation following the opening of Q2 Stadium and continued development along North Burnet Road.
Quail Creek Neighborhood Highlights:
Schools: Wooldridge Elementary (6/10), Burnet Middle School (5/10), Navarro High School (5/10)
Shopping: Highland Mall redevelopment, H-E-B, North Austin retail corridors
Parks: Quail Creek Park, Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park
Dining: Taqueria Arandas, Palitos, Taco More
Commute: 15 minutes to downtown Austin, 10 minutes to Domain, 8 minutes to Q2 Stadium
Why homebuyers choose Quail Creek: Affordability, convenient location, appreciation potential, and proximity to Q2 Stadium development make Quail Creek particularly attractive for first-time homebuyers and investors seeking entry into the Austin market.
South/Southwest Austin Neighborhoods: Natural Beauty with Family Appeal
South and Southwest Austin neighborhoods offer Hill Country scenery, excellent schools, and often more home for your money compared to central locations.
Circle C (78749/78739): Premier Master-Planned Community
Circle C Real Estate Market Overview (2025):
Median home price: $775,000
Price per square foot: $370
Average home size: 2,800 sq ft
Typical lot size: 0.2-0.3 acres
Year-over-year appreciation: 7.2%
Average days on market: 18
Circle C represents one of Austin's most successful master-planned communities, offering exceptional amenities, top-rated schools, and architectural consistency. Located in Southwest Austin, this extensive development attracts families, professionals, and those seeking a suburban lifestyle with natural beauty.
Housing options range from 1990s traditional homes to newer luxury construction, with most properties featuring generous floor plans, garages, and community amenities access. The neighborhood maintains strong value through architectural controls, landscaping standards, and amenity investments.
Circle C Neighborhood Highlights:
Schools: Kiker Elementary (9/10), Clayton Elementary (10/10), Gorzycki Middle School (9/10), Austin High School (7/10)
Shopping: Shops at Arbor Trails, Escarpment Village, Sunset Valley retail area
Parks: Metropolitan Park at Circle C, Slaughter Creek Greenbelt, Grey Rock Golf Club
Dining: Waterloo Ice House, Mangieri's Pizza, Flores Mexican Restaurant
Commute: 25 minutes to downtown Austin, 25 minutes to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
Why homebuyers choose Circle C: Excellent schools, extensive amenities, community management, architectural standards, and family-friendly atmosphere make Circle C particularly attractive for families seeking a high-quality suburban lifestyle.
Barton Hills (78704): Urban Greenspace with Premium Location
Barton Hills Real Estate Market Overview (2025):
Median home price: $1,250,000
Price per square foot: $650
Average home size: 1,950 sq ft
Typical lot size: 0.15-0.25 acres
Year-over-year appreciation: 8.0%
Average days on market: 14
Barton Hills combines premium central Austin location with exceptional access to outdoor recreation, featuring proximity to both downtown and the Barton Creek Greenbelt. This established neighborhood attracts outdoor enthusiasts, professionals, and families seeking natural amenities with urban convenience.
Housing stock includes 1950s-70s ranch homes, many with significant renovations or complete rebuilds. The neighborhood has seen substantial luxury development in recent years, with many original homes being replaced with high-end contemporary designs.
Barton Hills Neighborhood Highlights:
Schools: Barton Hills Elementary (8/10), O. Henry Middle School (8/10), Austin High School (7/10)
Shopping: Lamar Shopping Center, South Congress shopping district
Parks: Zilker Park, Barton Creek Greenbelt, Barton Springs Pool
Dining: Barton Springs restaurants, South Lamar dining corridor
Commute: 10 minutes to downtown Austin, 15 minutes to South Austin employment centers
Why homebuyers choose Barton Hills: Unmatched access to outdoor recreation, proximity to downtown, strong appreciation history, and premium 78704 zip code make Barton Hills particularly attractive for active professionals and families valuing both natural amenities and urban access.
Travis Country (78735): Natural Setting with Established Community
Travis Country Real Estate Market Overview (2025):
Median home price: $850,000
Price per square foot: $390
Average home size: 2,650 sq ft
Typical lot size: 0.2-0.35 acres
Year-over-year appreciation: 6.8%
Average days on market: 22
Travis Country offers a tranquil Southwest Austin setting with extensive greenbelts, mature landscaping, and spacious homes. This established neighborhood attracts families, nature enthusiasts, and professionals seeking a combination of natural beauty and convenient location.
Housing inventory consists primarily of traditional homes built in the 1980s-90s, featuring generous floor plans, established landscaping, and some updated interiors. The neighborhood has maintained value through strong community association management and greenspace preservation.
Travis Country Neighborhood Highlights:
Schools: Small Middle School (7/10), Austin High School (7/10)
Shopping: Barton Creek Square Mall, Sunset Valley retail center
Parks: Barton Creek Wilderness Park, community trails, neighborhood pool
Dining: Sapp's Coffee, Blue Dahlia Bistro, The Grove
Commute: 15 minutes to downtown Austin, 12 minutes to Barton Creek Square
Why homebuyers choose Travis Country: Natural setting, established community feel, relatively central location, and strong property values make Travis Country particularly attractive for families and professionals seeking greenspace with good city access.
West Austin Neighborhoods: Luxury Living with Hill Country Views
West Austin communities offer some of the city's most prestigious addresses, typically featuring larger lots, scenic vistas, and access to waterfront amenities on Lake Austin and Lake Travis.
Steiner Ranch (78732): Resort-Style Living with Lake Views
Steiner Ranch Real Estate Market Overview (2025):
Median home price: $925,000
Price per square foot: $365
Average home size: 3,200 sq ft
Typical lot size: 0.2-0.5 acres
Year-over-year appreciation: 6.5%
Average days on market: 24
Steiner Ranch provides a resort-like master-planned community experience with exceptional amenities, natural beauty, and access to both Lake Travis and Lake Austin. This expansive development attracts families, executives, and active adults seeking luxury amenities and scenic surroundings.
Housing options range from production homes to custom estates, most built between 1990-2015, with various architectural styles and premium features. Many properties offer hill country or lake views, with community amenities including pools, trails, and lake access.
Steiner Ranch Neighborhood Highlights:
Schools: Laura Welch Bush Elementary (9/10), Canyon Ridge Middle School (9/10), Vandegrift High School (9/10)
Shopping: Steiner Ranch Shopping Center, Four Points Centre, Hill Country Galleria
Parks: Multiple community parks, Lake Travis access, extensive trail system
Dining: Steiner Ranch Steakhouse, Maudie's, The Grille at Rough Hollow
Commute: 30 minutes to downtown Austin, 25 minutes to Domain
Why homebuyers choose Steiner Ranch: Resort-style amenities, excellent schools, natural beauty, and established community management make Steiner Ranch particularly attractive for families and executives seeking a premium master-planned community experience.
Jester Estates (78750): Hilltop Views with Executive Homes
Jester Estates Real Estate Market Overview (2025):
Median home price: $995,000
Price per square foot: $405
Average home size: 2,950 sq ft
Typical lot size: 0.25-0.4 acres
Year-over-year appreciation: 6.2%
Average days on market: 25
Jester Estates offers spectacular hillside views and executive homes in a serene setting off RM 2222. This established neighborhood attracts professionals, executives, and families seeking spacious homes, natural beauty, and a prestigious Northwest Austin address.
Housing stock consists primarily of traditional and transitional homes built in the 1980s-90s, many featuring significant updates, hill country views, and premium architectural details. The neighborhood's hillside location provides both scenic vistas and cooling breezes.
Jester Estates Neighborhood Highlights:
Schools: Hill Elementary (10/10), Murchison Middle School (8/10), Anderson High School (9/10)
Shopping: H-E-B at Four Points, Randalls at Steiner Ranch
Parks: Bull Creek District Park, Emma Long Metropolitan Park
Dining: Ski Shores Cafe, Los Pinos, Blue Star Kitchen
Commute: 22 minutes to downtown Austin, 15 minutes to Domain
Why homebuyers choose Jester Estates: Spectacular views, spacious homes, excellent schools, and established community character make Jester Estates particularly attractive for executives and families seeking a prestigious address with natural beauty.
Highland Park (78731): Sophisticated Living with Central Convenience
Highland Park Real Estate Market Overview (2025):
Median home price: $1,050,000
Price per square foot: $495
Average home size: 2,350 sq ft
Typical lot size: 0.2-0.3 acres
Year-over-year appreciation: 6.7%
Average days on market: 20
Highland Park offers elegant homes in a centrally located setting with mature trees and established character. This prestigious neighborhood attracts professionals, executives, and families seeking quality construction, architectural distinction, and proximity to both downtown and Domain employment centers.
Housing inventory includes primarily 1960s-70s traditional homes, many with significant updates or complete rebuilds. The neighborhood has maintained strong value through architectural quality, lot sizes, and excellent location.
Highland Park Neighborhood Highlights:
Schools: Highland Park Elementary (9/10), Lamar Middle School (7/10), McCallum High School (8/10)
Shopping: Central Market, Crestview Station, Highland Mall redevelopment
Parks: Perry Park, Beverly S. Sheffield Northwest Park
Dining: Foreign & Domestic, Barley Swine, Tiny Pies
Commute: 15 minutes to downtown Austin, 10 minutes to Domain
Why homebuyers choose Highland Park: Central location, architectural quality, larger lot sizes, and established prestige make Highland Park particularly attractive for professionals and families seeking sophisticated central Austin living.
Finding Your Ideal Austin Neighborhood: Decision Factors
When evaluating which Austin neighborhood best matches your needs and preferences, consider these key decision factors:
Budget Considerations by Neighborhood Tier
Austin neighborhoods can be categorized into general price tiers to help focus your search:
Luxury Tier ($1M+)
Tarrytown
Barton Hills
Northwest Hills
Highland Park
Jester Estates
Mid-Upper Tier ($750K-$1M)
Allandale
Rosedale
Steiner Ranch
Circle C
Travis Country
Mid Tier ($550K-$750K)
Cherrywood
Scofield Farms
Windsor Park
Milwood
Entry Tier (Under $550K)
Quail Creek
Southeast Austin neighborhoods
Far North Austin areas
Some suburban communities outside city limits
School District Quality Across Neighborhoods
For families with children, school quality often drives neighborhood selection:
Top-Rated Elementary Schools
Hill Elementary (Jester/Northwest Hills): 10/10
Clayton Elementary (Circle C): 10/10
Casis Elementary (Tarrytown): 9/10
Laura Welch Bush Elementary (Steiner Ranch): 9/10
Highland Park Elementary (Highland Park): 9/10
Top-Rated Middle Schools
Canyon Ridge Middle School (Steiner Ranch): 9/10
Gorzycki Middle School (Circle C): 9/10
Murchison Middle School (Northwest Hills/Jester): 8/10
Kealing Middle School (Cherrywood): 8/10
O. Henry Middle School (Tarrytown/Barton Hills): 8/10
Top-Rated High Schools
Vandegrift High School (Steiner Ranch): 9/10
Anderson High School (Northwest Hills/Jester): 9/10
McCallum High School (Allandale/Highland Park): 8/10
Austin High School (Tarrytown/Barton Hills): 7/10
Commute Times to Major Employment Centers
Commute considerations significantly impact quality of life in Austin:
Downtown Austin Commutes
Under 10 minutes: Tarrytown, Barton Hills, Cherrywood
10-15 minutes: Allandale, Rosedale, Highland Park, Travis Country
15-25 minutes: Northwest Hills, Windsor Park, Quail Creek, Jester Estates
25+ minutes: Circle C, Steiner Ranch, Milwood, Scofield Farms
Domain/Tech Corridor Commutes
Under 10 minutes: Milwood, Scofield Farms, Quail Creek
10-15 minutes: Northwest Hills, Highland Park, Windsor Park
15-25 minutes: Allandale, Rosedale, Jester Estates
25+ minutes: Tarrytown, Barton Hills, Travis Country, Steiner Ranch, Circle C
Lifestyle and Community Characteristics
Different neighborhoods excel in various lifestyle categories:
Urban/Walkable Communities
Cherrywood
Rosedale
Barton Hills
Parts of Tarrytown
Family-Focused Communities
Circle C
Steiner Ranch
Milwood
Allandale
Luxury/Executive Communities
Tarrytown
Jester Estates
Northwest Hills
Highland Park
Outdoor/Recreation-Oriented Communities
Barton Hills
Travis Country
Steiner Ranch
Circle C
The Austin Real Estate Expert's Perspective
Austin's diverse neighborhoods offer something for every lifestyle, budget, and preference. While central neighborhoods like Tarrytown and Allandale command premium prices for their established character and proximity to downtown, areas like Circle C and Steiner Ranch provide exceptional amenities and schools for families seeking a suburban lifestyle. Emerging neighborhoods like Windsor Park continue to offer value with appreciation potential as Austin's growth pushes outward.
Working with a neighborhood specialist who understands Austin's complex real estate landscape can help you identify the perfect match for your specific needs, whether you're seeking walkability, luxury amenities, strong schools, investment potential, or architectural character.
Frequently Asked Questions About Austin Neighborhoods
What are the most affordable neighborhoods in Austin with good schools?
The most affordable Austin neighborhoods with strong public schools include:
Milwood (North Austin): Median price $575,000 with 8/10 elementary and high schools
Anderson Mill (Northwest Austin): Median price $485,000 with 7/10 schools
Wells Branch (North Austin): Median price $450,000 with 7/10 elementary school
Shady Hollow (South Austin): Median price $625,000 with 8/10 schools
Additionally, some neighborhoods in nearby suburbs like Pflugerville, Round Rock, and Leander offer more affordable housing with excellent schools.
Which Austin neighborhoods have the best investment potential?
Neighborhoods showing the strongest appreciation potential in 2025 include:
Windsor Park: 10.5% year-over-year appreciation with significant redevelopment
Quail Creek: 9.5% appreciation with proximity to Q2 Stadium development
Cherrywood: 9.2% appreciation with continued east Austin transformation
Southeast Austin areas: 8-11% appreciation as affordability pushes growth outward
Investment potential varies based on entry price, rental demand, and future development projects. Areas near transportation improvements, major employers, or retail developments typically show stronger appreciation.
What are the most walkable neighborhoods in Austin?
Austin's most pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods include:
Downtown Austin: Walk Score 93/100, with access to restaurants, entertainment, and employment
West Campus: Walk Score 88/100, with student-oriented services and amenities
North University/Hyde Park: Walk Score 85/100, with local shops and dining options
South Congress (SoCo): Walk Score 83/100, with boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment
Cherrywood: Walk Score 78/100, with local businesses and community amenities
These neighborhoods allow residents to accomplish most daily errands and activities without a car, though Austin as a whole remains a predominantly car-dependent city with an average Walk Score of 42/100.
Which Austin neighborhoods are best for families with children?
The most family-friendly Austin neighborhoods combine excellent schools, safety, parks, and kid-oriented amenities:
Circle C Ranch: Premier family community with multiple top-rated schools, extensive park system, and family-oriented events
Steiner Ranch: Resort-style amenities including pools, playgrounds, and sports facilities with highly-rated schools
Allandale: Central location with strong schools, numerous parks, and multi-generational community feel
Great Hills: Northwest location combining natural settings with excellent schools and family amenities
Brushy Creek: Northern suburb with exceptional schools, extensive trail system, and family-focused community events
These neighborhoods typically feature lower crime rates, proximity to family services, and higher percentages of households with children.
What are the most exclusive luxury neighborhoods in Austin?
Austin's most prestigious residential areas include:
Westlake/Rollingwood: Median prices $1.5-3M+ with top-rated Eanes ISD schools
Tarrytown: Historic prestige with $1.8M+ median price and established character
Barton Creek: Gated golf course communities with $2M+ estates and resort amenities
Lake Austin waterfront: Direct waterfront properties ranging from $3-10M+
Rob Roy/Seven Oaks: Western hill country estates with panoramic views, typically $2-5M+
These luxury enclaves offer exceptional privacy, architectural distinction, larger lots, and often guard-gated security in addition to prestigious addresses.
Are there any up-and-coming neighborhoods in Austin to watch?
Several emerging Austin neighborhoods show strong potential for future appreciation and community development:
St. Johns (Northeast): Significant redevelopment with 12% year-over-year appreciation
McKinney (East): Creative community with increasing amenities and 11% appreciation
Montopolis (Southeast): Riverside location with growing development interest and 12.5% appreciation
North Loop: Increasing density with walkable amenities and strong rental demand
Highland/Colony Park: Major redevelopment plans with substantial investment
These areas typically offer lower entry prices with higher appreciation potential, though they may have fewer established amenities and remain in transition.
We are delighted to be your guides to Austin and Austin real estate!
Cheers,
Jen & the team
© 2025 Berbas Group. All rights reserved.
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