Austin is one of the most culturally and economically diverse cities in the United States, and it's just growing. Aside from being one of the country's most thriving cultural hubs, an excellent place for prosperous employment, and one of the safest urban hotspots in the United States, the cost of living in Texas' capital is also lower than in most cities in its category — it's easy to see why the best neighborhoods in Austin are in high demand by renters.
Meanwhile, good wages, low taxes, excellent public transportation, and a vibrant music and arts scene will make any potential homeowner pleased. So, if you want to experience the benefits that the best neighborhoods in Texas have to offer, here's a compilation of the top 20 neighborhoods selected by locals in Austin and sorted by location and qualities!
Neighborhoods in Central Austin
Central Austin encompasses the Downtown and central neighborhoods of the city. The area is north of the Colorado River and is bounded to the east by Interstate 35, to the north by about 51st Street/North Loop/Hancock Drive, and to the west by Mopac Expressway (SL 1).
1. Downtown
Zip Code: 78701
Average Home Price: $584,000
Downtown Austin consists of a booming business district, a thriving entertainment district, and sophisticated urban dwellings. Metropolitan enthusiasts living here enjoy a sophisticated lifestyle with an upscale feel. Real estate here tends to be more expensive than in other Austin neighborhoods, reflecting its location in the heart of the city with walking, biking, and metro access to area employers, world-class shopping, gourmet dining, and relaxing recreation.
Characterized by scenic views of the Colorado River, Downtown Austin listings typically feature high-rise lofts, luxury condos, and small, garden-style condos, most with their own parking spaces. Children who live in Downtown Austin attend schools in the Austin Independent School District or can take advantage of the many private and charter schools in the area.
Why Downtown Austin: Living in the beating heart of Austin
The Vibe: Sophisticated urban lifestyle
Parks and Outdoors: B+
Nightlife: A+
Walkability: 92/100
Schools: A
Crime & Safety: C-
2. Hyde Park
Zip Code: 78751
Average Home Price: $815,000
Thanks to its proximity to the Texas University Campus. Hyde Park is home to a diverse community of students, educators, and professionals. It is situated in Central Austin, and is known for its quaint, tree-shaded neighborhoods, small business district, and neighborhood markets that many residents can walk to.
In terms of real estate, home prices in this trendy area are not inexpensive. You will, however, find a fair selection of cafes, restaurants, and bars to spend your weekend at. The good news is that it is calmer than Downtown Austin and has a more small-town atmosphere.
In terms of outdoor activities, the Elisabet Ney Museum is nestled in the leafy hamlet of Hyde Park, located in what was formerly the sculptress' studio. And just south of the area are numerous sports fields and 500 acres of recreation area, trails, and greenbelts in Town Lake and Zilker Park.
Why Hyde Park: Beautiful neighborhood with walkable amenities
The Vibe: Historic charm and eclectic mix of neighbors
Parks and Outdoors: B
Nightlife: A+
Walkability: 78/100
Schools: A
Crime & Safety: B-
3. Rosedale
Zip Code: 78756
Average Home Price: $1.16M
Rosedale is one of the older neighborhoods, dating back to the 1930s and 40s. It is a traditional residential neighborhood, with homes on tree-lined streets, parks, and local businesses and restaurants. A place where people can jog, bike, and walk their dogs along the streets. The amenities, safety, and highly-rated schools make this an attractive neighborhood for families.
Many of the homes are modestly sized and date back to the 1930s to 50s, and reflect the architecture of that period. The neighborhood has several parks, most notably Ramsey Park/Playground which has a swimming pool, a playground, a ball field, picnic tables, and BBQ grills, and Shoal Creek, which has running and bike trails.
The neighborhood is just a few minutes drive from downtown and the University of Texas. It also borders Hwy. 1 and Lamar Blvd., a local thoroughfare, which offers access to other parts of the city. The Rosedale neighborhood has a strong sense of community. The population is a mix of vibrant residents attracted by the neighborhood's convenient location and amenities
Why Rosedale: Beautiful homes, lovely green spaces, and a great location
The Vibe: Quiet, tight-knit, active neighborhood
Parks and Outdoors: B+
Nightlife: A+
Walkability: 70/100
Schools: A
Crime & Safety: B+
4. Old West Austin
Zip Code: 78703
Average Home Price: $1.28M
Looking to live in an area with an easy commute to Downtown Austin? Consider living in the ATX neighborhood of Old West Austin! Less than ten minutes away from the city center and job opportunities at places like Ascension Seton Medical Center Austin, this Austin neighborhood is an ideal spot for people who want the convenience of an urban area mixed with the spacious properties of a suburban area.
You can find everything from modern townhomes and condos to historical homes and modest single-family ranches here. Residents also have access to plenty of green space with local parks like Bailey Neighborhood Park, Hartford Park, Pease District Park, and the Shoal Creek Greenbelt. The area is home to 6 schools in the Austin ISD, including Mathews Elementary School, O Henry Middle School, and Austin High school.
Why Old West Austin: Beautiful scenic neighborhood bordering the downtown area
The Vibe: Quiet historic beauty
Parks and Outdoors: B+
Nightlife: A+
Walkability: 83/100
Schools: A
Crime & Safety: B-
Homes for Sale in Old West Austin
5. Old Enfield
Zip Code: 78703
Average Home Price: $1.05M
Old Enfield is one of the older, historic neighborhoods in Austin, but that doesn’t mean the homes are run-down. You'll find large, well-preserved homes on wide, tree-lined streets, lots of green space, and several parks. The area is considered one of the most prestigious locations in Austin because of its historic atmosphere and convenient location.
Although it offers a tranquil sanctuary in the middle of the city, the neighborhood is located close to the University of Texas and Downtown. Residents have easy access to the shopping and dining of downtown and South Austin, and other parts of the city via Hwy. 1 or Lamar Blvd. which borders the neighborhood.
Within the neighborhood, the greenbelt expands into Pease Park, with many playing fields and grassy areas and an open leash area for dogs. Pease Park is popular among Old Enfield residents. A jazz festival is held here and so is Eeyore's Birthday, a quirky Austin tradition.
Other local amenities include West Austin Park and Caswell Tennis Center. Bordering the neighborhood is Duncan Park, which includes a hiking trail and a challenging and popular BMX (extreme biking) track.
Why Old Enfield: It’s a historic area and is home base for much of the city’s creative crowd
The Vibe: Quaint, quiet Austin neighborhood with unique homes
Parks and Outdoors: B+
Nightlife: A+
Walkability: 57/100
Schools: A
Crime & Safety: A
6. North University
Zip Code: 78705
Average Home Price: $300,000
Named for its proximity to the University of Texas at Austin, the neighborhood of North University has long been a bastion of classic Austin culture. Along with its long-time residents, both students and tenured faculty alike call this area home, lending it an air of energy and sophistication.
It is convenient to downtown and has good walkability for daily necessities. Home to great local favorites like Torchy’s Tacos, the Wheatsville Food Co-op, and Hemphill Park, as well as a number of Austin’s top cafes and restaurants, North University is a good choice for anyone looking for that classic Austin feel.
Most of the homes in North University are one to three-bedroom craftsman or bungalow-style homes. It is also home to a charming enclave of homes from the 1910s to 20s in the Aldridge Place Historic District. North University is serviced by the Austin Independent School District and is also home to the private Kirby Hall School.
Why North University: Great location and walkability with lots of local color and ambiance
The Vibe: Classic Austin experience
Parks and Outdoors: B
Nightlife: A+
Walkability: 84/100
Schools: A
Crime & Safety: B-
Homes for Sale in North University
Neighborhoods in North Austin
North Austin is an expansive area of oak-shaded residential neighborhoods, with a hopping zone of dining and nightlife. North Austin is defined as neighborhoods north of Central Austin (51st Street/North Loop/Hancock Drive).
7. Allandale
Zip Code: 78756
Average Home Price: $768,000
Developed in the 1950s, Allendale is one of Austin's nicest neighborhoods, thanks to its lush green streets, numerous parks, and fantastic position just minutes from the city center. It's a peaceful area with a close-knit community where anyone can feel safe.
On quiet suburban streets, Allandale has a number of restaurants and coffee shops like the Epicerie Cafe and the Peached Tortilla. It includes multiple parks and great public schools for people moving to Austin with a family. Allandale has something for everyone— it is a breath of fresh air in the midst of a city's bustle. It also allows convenient access to other parts of Austin.
In terms of home designs, the Allandale neighborhood comprises mostly mid-century ranch-style homes and bungalows – although many are being replaced with contemporary homes.
Why Allandale: Centrally located with great local establishments
The Vibe: Quiet tree-lined streets and an active close-knit community
Parks and Outdoors: B
Nightlife: A+
Walkability: 53/100
Schools: A
Crime & Safety: B-
8. North Loop
Zip Code: 78751
Average Home Price: $595,000
This classic Austin neighborhood is an eclectic mix of students, professionals, and artists. Residents can enjoy the local color at a wide range of neighborhood eateries, vintage stores, and performance spaces, like Foreign and Domestic and Coldtowne Theater along North Loop Street.
North Loop’s walkability makes it a great choice for those wishing to limit their time in the infamous Austin traffic. The sight of a neighbor walking their dog is a regular occurrence here, adding to the feeling of approachability and the laid-back atmosphere.
Homes in North Loop tend to be small craftsman-style or bungalow homes originally built in the 1940s. Many have been updated and some have been razed and replaced by contemporary-style houses. Children who live in the North Loop neighborhood attend schools in the Austin Independent School District.
Why North Loop: An authentic Austin experience with relatively affordable housing and great walkability
The Vibe: Laid back and eclectic with a strong community spirit
Parks and Outdoors: B
Nightlife: A+
Walkability: 67/100
Schools: A
Crime & Safety: C+
9. Wooten
Zip Code: 78757
Average Home Price: $451,000
Wooten is sometimes called North Allandale because it has similar characteristics to nearby Allandale and Crestview, but with more affordable housing options. Wooten is residential, so there's not much in the way of dining or nightlife within the neighborhood. However on the neighborhood border are many Mexican restaurants, an Olive Garden, and fast food. There is also the Highland Lanes for both adult and kids' bowling experience.
Public bus routes are accessible here to reach downtown and the university. The neighborhood is also close to Hwy. 183 which traverses the city. The schools serving the neighborhood are above average and there are private schools just south.
The population is great for those with school-aged kids and demographics who appreciate proximity to the hustle and bustle with a more laid-back vibe.
Why Wooten: A popular choice for home buyers looking to be near Northwest Austin employers who don’t want to sacrifice school quality.
The Vibe: Established community with a rural feeling
Parks and Outdoors: B
Nightlife: B
Walkability: 64/100
Schools: B+
Crime & Safety: C+
10. Wells Branch
Zip Code: 78728
Average Home Price: $400,000
Located just north of Austin, Wells Branch is a great suburban community. “One of my favorite Austin neighborhoods is definitely Wells Branch,” explained REALTOR Jody Adams. “From the neighborly atmosphere you get driving down the street and being met by waves from everyone, to the walkability of the neighborhood, to the proximity of shopping, restaurants, wonderful green spaces, and community garden, it is simply a fantastic area that I am proud to be a part of!”
Most of the homes in Wells Branch are contemporary style, with brick exteriors, three to four bedrooms, and tree-shaded yards. Homes here are more affordably priced compared to several neighborhoods in the Austin area. Wells Branch is home to the highly rated Chaparral Star Academy and is served by both Round Rock and Pflugerville Independent School districts.
Why Wells Branch: Great suburban living for Austin commuters
The Vibe: Friendly and relaxed
Parks and Outdoors: B
Nightlife: A
Walkability: 46/100
Schools: A-
Crime and Safety: B+
Homes for Sale in Wells Branch
11. North Burnet
Zip Code: 78758
Average Home Price: $265,000
North Burnet is packed with small businesses, restaurants, and food trucks and there are lots of shopping centers, offices, apartment buildings, condos, and little green space.
North Burnet is sometimes, half-jokingly, called South Dallas, because of its highly urbanized environment which is characteristic of neighborhoods in that city. But neighborhoods in North Burnet are reasonably quiet and less expensive to live in than other areas of Austin.
The Domain is in North Burnet, an upscale shopping and residential center. Across the street is Arbor Walk, another shopping center, and the Arboretum and Gateway Shopping Center are nearby. Also, there are health clubs, several supermarkets, and many cafes and coffee houses in the area. The neighborhood offers amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, tennis courts, and walking and jogging trails.
Many of the residents of North Burnet are professionals who work in the high-tech companies that surround the neighborhood, but there is a diverse mix of folks from all walks of life here. The area does have strong schools and enough green space or parks, so it's a great place for pets and families.
Why North Burnet: Provides a green respite from the bustling city just a few miles north.
The Vibe: Country-side character and charm
Parks and Outdoors: B
Nightlife: A+
Walkability: 45/100
Schools: A
Crime & Safety: C+
Homes for Sale in North Burnet
Neighborhoods in South Austin
South Austin is an expansive district of leafy residential suburbs and green spaces like the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, a botanic garden showcasing native Texas plants. South Austin generally includes any area south of the Colorado River.
12. West Congress
Zip Code: 78745
Average Home Price: $440,000
West Congress is a small neighborhood of about 3,000 people tucked in between three major local thoroughfares: South Congress Ave., South First St., and Hwy. 71. Over the years, it has become a place for those seeking a quiet, laid-back, live-and-let-live place to call home.
There are also a lot of St. Edward's University students, attracted by the neighborhood's proximity to the campus and by the many apartment complexes with low rents. There's not a strong sense of community, but at the same time the residents tend to be low-key and tolerant.
The neighborhood is close to SoCo and downtown, but far enough away so there's a bit less traffic and bustle. Getting around is convenient, with multiple public bus routes running through the neighborhood. In addition, there are many casual dining places here, including places to get tacos like La Flor and Hill's Cafe.
Why West Congress: Quiet, well-established neighborhood with very easy access to 35 and 290/71
The Vibe: Suburban mix feel
Parks and Outdoors: B
Nightlife: A+
Walkability: 56/100
Schools: B+
Crime & Safety: C+
Homes for Sale in West Congress
13. Barton Hills
Zip Code: 78704
Average Home Price: $1.18M
Barton Hills is one of Austin's top communities for wildlife enthusiasts. It's close to the city, yet it also has enough natural elements to make it feel like an entirely separate section of the Austin area. Barton Hills is the perfect area to live if you want the best of both worlds.
Zilker Park, Barton Springs, and the Barton Creek Greenbelt can all be found here. It is a popular spot for people of all ages to live. Families will appreciate the good ratings achieved by local schools throughout the years. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the atmosphere created by Barton Hills.
Why Barton Hills: Great access to nature and city life
The Vibe: Friendly outdoor enthusiasts
Parks and Outdoors: B+
Nightlife: A+
Walkability: 36/100
Schools: A+
Crime & Safety: B-
Homes for Sale in Barton Hills
14. Bouldin Creek
Zip Code: 78704
Average Home Price: $1.47M
Bouldin Creek is a desirable area to live in for many Austinites because of its convenient location and local attractions. The neighborhood offers a wide assortment of local stores, cafes, coffee shops, and restaurants, and is adjacent to the major shopping district of South Congress Avenue.
The neighborhood's central location is within walking distance of many of the major attractions of Austin. These include parks and the natural scenery of Lady Bird Lake, the Barton Creek Greenbelt, and Zilker Park. They also include entertainment venues like the Long Center for the Performing Arts, the Palmer Events Center, Auditiorium Shores, and the music, dining, and nightlife of downtown Austin.
Despite its closeness to downtown, Bouldin Creek remains a quiet, relatively safe residential neighborhood where residents can walk or bike along the streets.
Why Bouldin Creek: One of the city’s most historic neighborhoods and a favorite among Austinites looking for a mix of vibrant location and cultural diversity.
The Vibe: Vibrancy and diverse
Parks and Outdoors: B+
Nightlife: A+
Walkability: 82/100
Schools: A-
Crime & Safety: C+
Homes for Sale in Bouldin Creek
15. South Manchaca
Zip Code: 78745
Average Home Price: $970,000
In South Austin, you will find the charming neighborhood of South Manchaca. Desired by many, this under-the-radar community is conveniently located. This local favorite is just a few blocks from South Congress and is home to a wealth of locally owned shops and eateries. Spend your afternoon strolling from shop to shop, then grab lunch or happy hour from one of the many restaurants or food truck parks.
South Manchaca is also home to parks and good schools. Plus, it's affordable while ranking as one of Austin's safest neighborhoods on the list. And with the St David South Austin Hospital in the neighborhood, South Manchaca is an ideal place for professionals in healthcare and health-sensitive seniors looking to live nearby.
Don't miss the vintage finds at Bloomers and Frocks. Refuel at one of the many Coffee shops, brunch the day away at Waffle House, go vegan at Veracruz All Natural or enjoy the wine garden at the critically acclaimed Lenoir.
Why South Manchaca: Perfect location for lovers of nightlife and just a stone's throw from the buzz of Downtown & South Congress.
The Vibe: Buzzing and fun-filled
Parks and Outdoors: B
Nightlife: A+
Walkability: 51/100
Schools: B+
Crime and Safety: B-
Home for Sale in South Manchaca
16. Zilker
Zip Code: 78704
Average Home Price: $1.21M
The Zilker area is located just across the Colorado River from downtown Austin. It's no surprise that Zilker is one of Austin's greatest neighborhoods thanks to its laid-back culture and abundance of activities.
This neighborhood not only has a lot of new construction with modern houses and condominiums, but it is also right near Zilker Metropolitan Park, which is home to the annual Austin City Limits Music Festival, which draws thousands of music fans from all over the country each year.
When it comes to fun activities, Zilker offers a whole lot. You can go for a run, take your dog for a walk, or ride your bike along the Ann & Roy Butler Hike & Bike Trail, which runs along the Colorado River.
Residents can also hit up Corner Bar, an after-work favorite that has daily specials like Service Industry Tuesday or Double Fistin’ Fridays. If you want to be close to downtown and live in an area that combines Austin's natural beauty with unique culture, Zilker is the place to be!
Why Zilker: The neighborhood features a good blend of Austin’s natural beauty and eccentric culture.
The Vibe: Laid-back community with a lot of outdoor lifestyles
Parks and Outdoors: B+
Nightlife: A+
Walkability: 75/100
Schools: A
Crime & Safety: C+
17. South Lamar
Zip Code: 78704
Average Home Price: $964,000
The Austin neighborhood of South Lamar, often known as SoLa, has experienced a rebirth as a result of new development, local business growth, and an influx of new, hip residents
SoLa is one of the greatest neighborhoods in Austin for the young or the young at heart, with a wide variety of single-family homes, a ten-minute commute into Downtown Austin, and outdoor leisure spots like Barton Creek Greenbelt. It's also a terrific neighborhood for individuals who have or will have school-age children, as the schools in the Austin Independent School District are excellent.
When it comes to outdoor activities in South Lamar, there are a plethora of options. At the Broken Spoke dance hall, you may listen to live music and join in on the next line dance. Uncommon Objects offers an eclectic mix of antiques and vintage treasures. At Casino South Side, you can play pool or darts while sipping a cocktail.
Why South Lamar: Perfect for go-getters. South Lamar is the neighborhood for those seeking diversity and blossoming nightlife.
The Vibe: Diverse and progressive
Parks and Outdoors: B
Nightlife: A+
Walkability: 54/100
Schools: A-
Crime & Safety: C+
18. Riverside
Zip Code: 78741
Average Home Price: $476,000
Riverside, also known as East Riverside-Oltorf, is a growing community in the southeast Austin area. Strip malls, small businesses, and loyal natives boasting a no-frills attitude fill the spaces in between the greenery and residential areas.
Residents can enjoy a scenic view of Lady Bird Lake and the city beyond while taking a walk along The Boardwalk. Riverside is just beginning to experience a boom in developments, with many more housing options and businesses moving into the area. The neighborhood is home to many artists and musicians whose influences color the community in classic Austin fashion. Visit hotspots like Buzzmill coffee, The Bazaar, or Emo’s, the prominent nightclub which recently relocated to the Riverside area.
Potential homeowners would love the sense of community and the reasonable prices. This neighborhood is filled with natives of all kinds, and its proximity to downtown makes it perfect for anyone who commutes. With easy access to the University of Texas via bus, this town is also a convenient option for students.
Why Riverside: Perfect location for students with close proximity to the education centers.
The Vibe: Youthful and cultural diversity
Parks and Outdoors: B
Nightlife: A+
Walkability: 63
Schools: B+
Crime & Safety: C-
19. West Oak Hill
Zip Code: 78736
Average Home Price: $673,000
Popular for its affordability and proximity to highly ranked AISD schools, the West Oak Hill area has caught the attention of many Austinites looking to settle with their families in an area that boasts more space than your average suburbia. It’s one of the few areas in Austin where you can find neighborhoods that feed to top-ranked schools all the way from elementary to middle to high school.
Head toward Southwest Parkway and you’ll find spacious homes and picturesque apartment complexes, as well as the AMD campus. As you edge closer to the Y in Oak Hill (and the traffic that comes with it), more affordable options emerge, like Legend Oaks and the Village at Western Oaks. Locals love unwinding during happy hour at Jack Allen’s Kitchen or taking the easy drives to Lake Travis and the wineries in Driftwood.
Why West Oak Hill: A popular choice for home buyers looking to be near boutique shopping, great food, and live music.
The Vibe: Homespun character with lots of creative attractions
Parks and Outdoors: B
Nightlife: B-
Walkability: 14/100
Schools: A
Crime & Safety: B-
Homes for Sale in West Oak Hill
Neighborhoods in East Austin
Often noted as the fastest-growing neighborhood in Austin, the eclectic and trendy eastside area has a new, robust restaurant scene and has become a popular home choice for many Austinites. East Austin is defined as areas east of Interstate 35 north of the river.
20. Govalle
Zip Code: 78702
Average Home Price: $750,000
Located between Webberville Road and Airport Boulevard, the neighborhood started as a cattle ranch in the 1850s. Govalle is one of the many neighborhoods in East Austin undergoing a transformation in recent times.
Today Govalle, which is pronounced goh-VAL-ee, has a growing number of galleries and cozy spots where you can meet up with friends or experience truly eclectic shopping and dining
The residents form a vibrant, close-knit community thanks to the multiple family-centric activities in the area. One of the upsides of living in this neighborhood is its close proximity to Downtown and the University of Texas, with public bus lines being readily accessible.
Govalle is also home to several parks including Govalle Park, Rosewood Park, and Metz Park and Recreation Center; and the largest, 326-acre Roy G. Guerrero Park. Because of the close proximity of the neighborhood to downtown and the university, many students and professionals have taken up residence here as well.
Why Govalle: Fantastic central location with walkable amenities, green spaces, and easy access to Austin’s greatest features.
The Vibe: Environmentally conscious
Parks and Outdoors: B
Nightlife: B+
Walkability: 40/100
Schools: B+
Crime & Safety: B-
How We Chose the Best Neighborhoods in Austin
Austin, one of Texas' most pleasant cities, has great neighborhoods with low crime rates, inexpensive housing, world-class educational institutions, and easy access to public transportation. Every area in Austin has its own distinct personality and vibe, and locating the perfect neighborhood is critical to having a memorable Austin experience.
Austin has something for everyone thanks to its diverse neighborhoods. Whether you're a young professional, a student, growing family, or a retiree, our selection of the 20 best neighborhoods in Austin will help you make a decision.
We based our list of the finest neighborhoods on a niche.com survey that took into account the following criteria: education, parks and outdoors, nightlife, and crime and safety. We also considered the neighborhood's walkability rate using data from walkscore.com.
Whether you are looking for the bohemian vibes of South Austin, the stately elegance of Old Enfield, or the Hill Country living of West Oak Hills, Austin has a community to fit your taste. When you’re ready to begin searching for your perfect Austin experience, any one of our stellar Austin expert REALTORS will be able to guide you to the ideal neighborhood for you.
Be sure to also check out our blog on Living in Austin Texas for great insider tips on life in Texas’ capital city.
