Exploring the best suburbs in Austin?
With its vibrant culture and growing popularity, Austin, Texas, offers a diverse array of suburban areas perfect for families, professionals, and retirees. Our guide dives into the best suburbs to live in Austin, TX, helping you find your ideal neighborhood based on lifestyle, amenities, and school districts.
Discover the charms of living in the best suburbs in Austin, Texas, and make an informed decision for your next home.
- Round Rock
- Four Points
- Lakeway
- South Austin
- Shady Hollow
- Pflugerville
- Brushy Creek
- Cedar Park
- Bee Cave
- Rollingwood
1. Round Rock: Among the Best Suburbs in Austin
Let’s start with Round Rock, consistently ranked as one of the best suburbs in Austin, TX. This vibrant community, just north of Austin, combines historical charm with modern living.
Round Rock has a rich history, originating from a round rock in Brushy Creek that was used for low-water crossings by covered wagons in the 1800s. Today, more than 120,000 people call this small city home about 25 minutes north of Downtown Austin. Round Rock is nestled in the beautiful Central Texas Hill Country, and you can find homes spread across these hills.
In this area, you’ll find both managed communities with homeowner association (HOA) fees and options without any HOA fees. Sports play a significant role in Round Rock, earning it the title of the “Sports Capital of Texas.” The city hosts many championship games at the Round Rock Sports Center and the Round Rock Multipurpose Center. Dell Computers is a major employer in the area and even sponsors a baseball field called the Dell Diamond.
However, Round Rock isn’t just about sports. Locals also enjoy visiting Tom Foolery’s Adventure Park, an indoor theme park connected to the large Kalahari Resort center in Round Rock. With the Texas heat, shopping is a popular pastime, and you’ll find various strip malls along I-35 and East Palm Valley Boulevard.
2. Four Points: A Serene Suburb Near Austin’s Vibrant Heart
Four Points, a gem among the best suburbs to live in Austin TX, offers tranquility and nature just 30 minutes from downtown. Its proximity to green belts and Lake Travis makes it a coveted location. This small community is about 30 minutes from Downtown Austin and is surrounded by expansive green belts. Unlike the larger city of Round Rock to the north, Four Points is a smaller region that appeals to those who want to live near Lake Travis, especially if they enjoy fishing.
Golfing is also popular in Four Points, with options like the River Place Country Club and UT Golf Club available for residents. Ranch-to-Market Road 2222 and N FM 620 offers scenic drives through the Texas Hill Country and connect the area to Austin. Home developments along these roads provide a sense of seclusion from the busyness of other Austin suburbs.
Living closer to nature doesn’t mean you’ll be far from shopping opportunities. The 2222 and the 620 have several big-box retailers along their routes, and you’ll find some fantastic dining options like Shuck Me and Rudy’s Country Store and BBQ. However, the local favorite is the Oasis on Lake Travis, where people from all over Austin come to enjoy a meal and watch the beautiful sunset. So, the Four Points is one of the best suburbs of Austin.
3. Shady Hollow
It is located about 10 miles south of Downtown Austin; you’ll find the charming suburb of Shady Hollow near the Lady Bird Johnson Wildlife Center. This picturesque area is near Circle C, one of Austin’s largest master-planned communities. Shady Hollow itself is a well-maintained community situated on the outskirts of the Texas Hill Country wilderness. It has three neighborhoods: Shady Hollow, Shady Hollow Estates, and Shady Hollow Gardens.
In Shady Hollow, homebuyers can discover lovely houses with brick facades, many built in the 1980s. Although there isn’t a dedicated shopping center within the suburb, residents can travel north to Slaughter Lane to access Palamino Park for their shopping needs.
For those commuting to Austin, Loop 1 provides a convenient route to bypass the city from the west, offering an efficient way to travel to and from Shady Hollow.
4. Lakeway: Luxury Living in a Top Austin TX Suburb
If you dream of a home with direct access to the Lake Travis waterfront, look no further than Lakeway, the best suburbs of Austin. While a portion of Lakeway resides along the shoreline, most of the community stretches south and west, offering magnificent hillside residences with breathtaking views of Austin to the east and Lake Travis to the west.
In Lakeway, boating isn’t just a pastime; it’s a way of life. Residents with waterfront homes often have their boats, with pontoon boats, particularly popular. These sturdy vessels are perfect for hosting friends and enjoying the water. It’s common to see groups of boats tied together on the weekends, creating a vibrant and social atmosphere. Even if you don’t live directly on the water, Lakeway provides options such as the Lakeway Marina, Freedom Boat Club at Lake Travis, and Hurst Harbor Marina, where you can dock your boat and enjoy the lake.
Golf is a beloved pastime among the residents of Lakeway, and the city boasts four golf courses, all conveniently located within a 20-minute drive from each other. When locals aren’t enjoying their time on the water or the golf course, you can often find them on Ranch Road 620 South. This road is home to amenities like an H-E-B grocery store, the Oaks at Lakeway shopping center, and a wide selection of restaurants, offering residents various shopping and dining options to explore.
5. South Austin: A Blend of Nature & Culture in an Austin Suburb
South Austin stands out as one of the best suburbs in Austin, offering a harmonious blend of traditional Texas architecture and lush natural landscapes. While it may not have direct proximity to the Lake Travis waterfront or the extensive greenbelts of Four Points, South Austin offers a green and nature-filled environment. The area is dotted with nature preserves that seamlessly blend with communities featuring tree-lined streets, blurring the boundaries between residential areas and forested land.
Nature enthusiasts can visit the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center to admire native Texas plants. Additionally, the Mary Moore Searight Metropolitan Park offers ample hiking trails and shaded lawns, perfect for relaxing under the cooling shade of pecan and mesquite trees. When seeking respite from the heat, residents often gather at the local malls, with Southpark Meadows being the largest. Here, you’ll find a variety of shops, including Walmart, Target, smaller boutiques, and a selection of restaurants.
For those commuting to Austin or exploring the city on weekends, easy access to downtown is provided via I-35, ensuring a convenient journey to the city’s heart.
6. Pflugerville: A Best Suburb in Austin with Rich Heritage
Southeast of Round Rock is Pflugerville, one of the best suburbs in Austin Texas for those looking for a blend of cultural heritage and modern amenities. This area was originally settled by German immigrants when Texas became part of the United States, and it was named Pflugerville, which means “plowman” in German. Over time, the farmlands transformed as landowners divided the land, leading to the development of various communities.
One of the popular attractions in Pflugerville is Lake Pflugerville, where locals can escape the heat and enjoy a day at the beach or stroll along the pier. Another favorite spot is the Typhoon Texas Waterpark, offering thrilling slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers to help people cool off.
Suppose you need some retail therapy in the suburbs of Austin TX, head to Dessau Road in Pflugerville. Here, shopping outlets like Aldi, H-E-B, and Walmart provide convenient options for everyday needs.
7. Brushy Creek
Suppose you’re seeking a peaceful escape from the nearby bustling towns of Round Rock and Pflugerville. In that case, the small town of Brushy Creek is an excellent choice. Located just off the 45, it offers a perfect location for those working in Round Rock who desires more space and privacy. In Brushy Creek, you’ll discover several neighborhoods with charming, tree-lined streets, where homeowners can find their ideal homes built between the late 1970s and late 2010s.
The town boasts multiple parks, providing locals with serene spots to relax and unwind under the shade of trees, especially on weekends. Homeowners can shop at the Brushy Creek commercial corridor on North FM 620. You’ll find convenient amenities like an H-E-B grocery store, coffee shops, and restaurants here. Brushy Creek offers a tranquil retreat while providing easy access to essential amenities.
8. Cedar Park
Cedar Park, a short distance from downtown Austin, is rapidly gaining recognition as one of the best suburbs in Austin TX, known for its vibrant community and abundant amenities. It has become a popular destination for shopping and entertainment, attracting residents from nearby Brushy Creek and other surrounding areas. The H-E-B Center hosts exciting sports games that draw people from various cities and towns.
On hot days, locals seek relief from the heat at Splash Shack, a large indoor waterpark. Cedar Park’s proximity to Lake Travis makes water sports a favorite pastime among residents. Train enthusiasts can visit the Austin Steam Train Association Museum in Cedar Park, offering a glimpse into the historical transportation methods used by early settlers in Texas.
US 183 runs through the city, creating a bustling commercial corridor filled with car dealerships, restaurants, and shops. Another prominent road, East Whitestone Boulevard, features popular stores such as Target, Whole Foods, Costco, and various quick-service restaurants. Cedar Park offers a thriving community with convenient amenities and attractions for all to enjoy.
9. Bee Cave
For those seeking tranquility near the city, Bee Cave emerges as one of the top best suburbs in Austin. Nestled in the Texas Hill Country, it offers a peaceful, artistic community west of Austin.
Bee Cave residents value the arts, evident through a sculpture park near the Bee Cave Arts Foundation. The foundation is located in the nearby Hill Country Galleria on the town’s west side, where homebuyers can find a variety of amenities. This includes big-box retailers, a movie theater, and various restaurants. Bee Cave provides a tranquil and artistic community with convenient access to shopping and entertainment options.
10. Rollingwood
Rollingwood, a Travis County suburb of Austin, is a delightful community with a population of 1,397. Considered one of the finest places to reside in Texas, Rollingwood provides residents with a serene and rural atmosphere. The majority of the residents in Rollingwood are homeowners, adding to the sense of stability and pride in the community.
Living in Rollingwood offers a charming and relaxed lifestyle. The area boasts various restaurants, coffee shops, and parks, providing ample leisurely outings and socializing opportunities. Whether you’re looking for a cozy café or a serene green space to unwind, Rollingwood has you covered.
The community of Rollingwood tends to have a conservative-leaning, reflecting the values and preferences of its residents. The town is close-knit, fostering a strong sense of community and neighborly support.
Education is highly valued in Rollingwood, and the public schools in the area are renowned for their quality. Families can take comfort in knowing that their children have access to excellent educational opportunities, ensuring their academic success and prospects.
In summary, Rollingwood offers a small-town ambiance with the convenience of being near Austin. Rollingwood presents an ideal living environment for those seeking a tranquil and fulfilling lifestyle in Austin TX suburbs with its rural charm, thriving local amenities, highly rated schools, and a close community spirit.
Why is Austin one of the best places to live?
Austin is widely regarded as one of the best places to live for several compelling reasons:
Thriving Job Market
Austin boasts a robust and diverse economy, attracting established companies and startups. The city is a hub for technology, with a flourishing tech sector often referred to as “Silicon Hills.”
Additionally, Austin has a vibrant music and entertainment industry and a growing presence in the healthcare, education, and renewable energy sectors. The abundance of job opportunities and entrepreneurial spirit make Austin attractive to professionals and job seekers.
Cultural Hub
Austin has a vibrant and eclectic cultural scene. The city is renowned for its live music, hosting numerous music festivals and boasting various venues and local talent. It also embraces a thriving arts scene, with galleries, theaters, and cultural events throughout the year. Austin’s diverse population contributes to its rich cultural tapestry, creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.
Outdoor Recreation
Nestled in the picturesque Texas Hill Country, Austin offers abundant opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The city has numerous parks, hiking, and biking trails, and access to water activities on the Colorado River and nearby lakes. Residents can enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding, hiking, and swimming, making Austin a haven for nature lovers.
Quality of Life
Austin consistently ranks highly in quality of life indicators. The city boasts a warm climate with mild winters, a relatively low cost of living compared to other major metropolitan areas, and a strong sense of community. Top-rated schools, world-class healthcare facilities, and various housing options further contribute to residents’ high quality of life.
Culinary Delights
Austin has gained a reputation as a food lover’s paradise, offering a vibrant culinary scene. The city has various restaurants, food trucks, and farmer’s markets showcasing local and international cuisines. From Texas barbecue to innovative fusion dishes, Austin’s culinary offerings cater to all tastes.
Overall, Austin’s combination of economic opportunities, cultural vibrancy, natural beauty, high quality of life, and culinary delights contribute to its reputation as one of the best places to live, attracting individuals and families from all walks of life.
What do you need to live comfortably in Austin?
According to the study, living in Austin as a single adult would require a post-tax income of $55,186. This amount considers the expenses associated with housing, utilities, transportation, food, healthcare, and other essential needs.
For couples in which only one adult is employed, the recommended income would be higher at $87,314. This accounts for the additional financial responsibilities that come with supporting two individuals.
The income requirements further increase with the addition of children and vary based on the number of dependents. Raising a child entails additional costs related to childcare, education, and other expenses, resulting in an increased income threshold.
Similarly, the income needed may also vary based on the couple’s specific situation, such as if both partners are working or if there are other dependents or family members to support.
These income figures serve as a guideline for individuals and families to ensure they can meet their basic needs and maintain a reasonable standard of living in Austin, considering the city’s cost of living and associated expenses.
Living in the Best Suburbs in Austin
Austin, TX, offers many excellent suburban options for individuals and families seeking a high quality of life and a close-knit community atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for top-notch schools, proximity to downtown, outdoor recreational opportunities, or an affordable yet vibrant neighborhood, Austin’s suburbs have something for everyone.
Each suburb has a unique appeal, from Cedar Park’s family-friendly environment to Round Rock’s economic opportunities, Bee Cave’s natural beauty, Westlake’s exclusivity, and Georgetown’s historic charm. Consider your lifestyle preferences and priorities, and you’ll find the perfect suburb in Austin, TX, that suits your needs and desires.
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