As Austin’s housing prices continue to rise and inventory remains low, many are looking for nearby alternatives.
Long-time residents and recent transplants alike are turning an eye to the many suburbs and small towns that surround the booming capital city. Many offer a median home value much lower than those found inside city limits, along with a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere and room to spread out.
With so many unique areas to choose from, it can be hard to pick the right one for your needs. To help you narrow it down, we have compiled a list of our top picks for Austin suburbs.
1. Buda
* Population: 15,565
* Median Home Value: $400,000
* Distance From Downtown Austin: 16.1 miles
* School District: Hays CISD
The town of Buda is a great choice for those seeking a more suburban lifestyle. Its downtown historic district and numerous community events lend it small-town charm, while an easy 21-minute commute to Austin makes it appealing to those looking to take advantage of all the Capital city has to offer.
Don’t Miss: The Downtown Buda Farmers’ Market — Created to support local farmers and artisans, the market is held every Sunday at the Buda Mill and Grain Co.
2. Cedar Park
* Population: 74,814
* Median Home Value: $499,000
* Distance From Downtown Austin: 20 miles
* School District: Leander ISD
Ideal for commuters, Cedar Park is situated close to some of Austin’s largest employers like Dell, Apple, and National Instruments, as well as local tech and manufacturing companies and the Cedar Park Medical Center. It boasts a wide range of local shopping and dining options as well as convenient access to both Austin and the Hill Country. It has been recognized as one of the Ten Best Towns for Families.
Don’t Miss: The Cedar Park Sculpture Garden — Situated next to the Cedar Park Recreation Center, the sculpture garden features an annual rotating display of sculptures on loan from both local and national artists.
3. Dripping Springs
* Population: 4,119
* Median Home Value: $777,000
* Distance From Downtown Austin: 23.7 miles
* School District: Dripping Springs ISD
The self-styled “gateway to the Texas Hill Country,” Dripping Springs offers a country feel with beautiful rolling hills, oak trees, and rock-bottom creeks just 23.7 minutes outside of Austin. A host of great local amenities means residents have no reason to drive to the city for daily needs, and the beautiful views and abundant nearby parks and natural areas offer a respite from the bustle of the city.
Don’t Miss: The Dr. Pound Historical Farmstead Museum — Journey back to 1854 with a visit to this historical farmstead nestled on 5 beautiful acres shaded by oak trees.
4. Georgetown
* Population: 71,004
* Median Home Value: $464,900
* Distance From Downtown Austin: 28.1 miles
* School District: Georgetown ISD
Georgetown has been garnering quite a bit of national attention lately, and it’s not hard to see why. It offers the charm of a small Texas town close to the excitement of Austin.
Straddling the Balcones Escarpment, Georgetown is divided into two distinct sections: the farming land to the east and the Hill Country to the west. The rapidly growing population of residents enjoy close proximity to the Hill Country, the convenience of local amenities, and an easy commute to Austin jobs.
Don’t Miss: Georgetown Historic Square — Enjoy the beautiful Victorian architecture while you sample the unique shopping and dining options, like Sincerely Yours 1848 and Gumbos North.
5. The Hills
* Population: 2,487
* Median Home Value: $875,000
* Distance From Downtown Austin: 21 miles
* School District: Lake Travis ISD
The Hills is a little community situated northwest of Austin and completely surrounded by the town of Lakeway. Its green setting, miles of walking trail and frequent wildlife sightings, lend an idyllic air to this conveniently located village.
Don’t Miss: Hops and Thyme — This neighborhood bistro offers a rotating selection of 36 local craft brews, along with wine, bourbon, and a mouthwatering menu of tasty treats.
6. Hutto
* Population: 25,320
* Median Home Value: $379,000
* Distance From Downtown Austin: 27.8 miles
* School District: Hutto ISD
People move to Hutto to enjoy its quiet streets, restored historic homes, and friendly atmosphere, along with a median home price that is 34% less than that of Austin proper. Its convenient location northeast of downtown makes it ideal for commuters looking for a quieter area to call home.
Don’t Miss: The Golf Club at Star Ranch — Novices and pros alike will enjoy a round of golf at this beautiful 18 hole golf course.
7. Lakeway
* Population: 15,138
* Median Home Value: $849,900
* Distance From Downtown Austin: 22.8 miles
* School District: Lake Travis ISD
Lakeway is located northwest of Austin along the southern shores of Lake Travis in the picturesque Hill Country. Outdoor enthusiasts here enjoy an abundance of water recreation activities with access to Lake Travis and the Colorado River, as well as hiking and biking in the beautiful Hamilton Greenbelts. This resort community also offers golf courses, tennis courts, a marina, and a private airport.
Don’t Miss: The Hamilton Greenbelt — This lovely outdoor space features miles of paved and primitive trails that immerse visitors in the beauty of the Texas Hill Country.
8. Leander
* Population: 53,716
* Median Home Value: $465,000
* Distance From Downtown Austin: 25.7 miles
* School District: Leander ISD
Situated just north of Cedar Park, Leander is a convenient commute to some of the city’s biggest tech employers. It was named the fastest-growing large city in the US, and boasts great amenities and access to outdoor spaces, plus a median housing price that is lower than any you will find inside Austin city limits.
Don’t Miss: The Crystal Falls Golf Club — This municipal golf course offers an 18 hole course amidst the beauty of the Hill Country.
9. Pflugerville
* Population: 61,737
* Median Home Value: $435,000
* Distance From Downtown Austin: 17.7 miles
* School District: Pflugerville ISD
Pflugerville is situated northeast of Austin and, thanks to a 20 minute commute, it has become a fast growing favorite for those who work in Austin but want to enjoy a slower pace of life.
With more than 60 parks and greenbelts, this little town is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Residents can choose to zip down to Austin for a night of entertainment, or enjoy the wealth of quirky local shopping and dining options.
Don’t Miss: Pflugerville Taco House — This local favorite is a great place to grab a signature “pfunky taco”, well stuffed “pfuego burrito” or a host of other Tex-Mex staples.
10. Round Rock
* Population: 124,434
* Median Home Value: $455,600
* Distance From Downtown Austin: 18.4 miles
* School District: Round Rock ISD
Known as the “Sports Capital of Texas,” Round Rock offers a wealth of sports options for players and spectators alike, along with excellent local venues to enjoy in a small-town atmosphere. It was chosen as one of Apartment Therapy’s coolest suburbs in America, and with its own live music offerings and more than 2000 acres of trails and outdoor spaces, Round Rock has plenty of appeal.
Don’t Miss: Old Settler’s Park — Enjoy the beauty of this 640 acre park with plenty of sports spaces, including disc golf courses, a cricket field and a softball complex, along with areas to picnic and barbecue.
11. Wells Branch
* Population: 12,176
* Median Home Value: $417,500
* Distance From Downtown Austin: 14.9 miles
* School District: Round Rock ISD
Wells Branch is a small community known for its friendly atmosphere, contemporary brick homes, and a median housing price that is nearly 28% lower than that of Austin. Residents enjoy walkability to shopping and dining options, plentiful green spaces, and highly rated schools.
Don’t Miss: Mills Pond — This picturesque pond is tucked into a residential area and surrounded by walking trails, with a fishing pier and floating boat dock for water access.
12. West Lake Hills
* Population: 3,311
* Median Home Value: $2,500,000
* Distance From Downtown Austin: 5.3 miles
* School District: Eanes ISD
Tucked along the shores of Lake Austin, Westlake is a luxury suburb known for beautiful Hill Country views and large, custom-built homes. Thanks to being off the major thoroughfares, residents enjoy lighter traffic while still enjoying easy access to Austin’s top hot spots.
Don’t Miss: Lake Austin — Most of the shoreline of Lake Austin is privately owned, but boaters are welcome to enjoy the picturesque lake waters.
Whether you are looking for quiet streets, a vibrant small town community, or easy access to outdoor recreation, there is a perfect Austin suburb to suit your taste. Don’t be afraid to explore a few of them and sample all they have to offer before settling on your favorite.
For more great information about moving to Austin, check out The Austin, Texas Job Market: What You Can Expect Moving Here.
If you are ready to start looking for a home in Austin or any of its great suburbs, we’d love to help you. Start your search today at homecity.com/Austin.
