Top 10 Best Neighborhoods to Live in Austin, Texas

For those in the market for a new home, Austin offers a wide range of neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm and amenities. This exciting state capital is on the move and is known for its vibrant culture, stunning outdoor spaces, and tech scene. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly environment, proximity to work, or a walkable area with an artsy vibe, Austin has something for everyone.

When it comes to choosing the best neighborhood in Austin, it’s important to think about your lifestyle and what amenities matter most to you. Whether you're looking for a vibrant urban environment, a quiet suburban escape, or something in between, Austin’s diverse neighborhoods offer something for everyone. Each area has its own unique characteristics, from family-friendly features to creative communities, and stunning natural surroundings. Austin is a city that offers a rich variety of experiences, making it an ideal place to find your next home.

Triangle State

Triangle State is a compelling option in north-central Austin. Formed by a triangle section created by Guadalupe Street and North Lamar, this neighborhood is a dynamic area offering urban living and suburban comfort. Full of easy amenities and access to major thoroughfares, Triangle State is a few miles north of The University of Texas. Travel down Guadalupe or “The Drag” to shops, restaurants, and collegiate sports and activities.

If you are looking for walkability and convenience, Triangle State has you covered. An array of retail and restaurants await you offering everything from a quick sandwich to yoga classes and easy banking. Head over to Charles Alan Wright Fields at the Berry M. Whitaker Sports Complex and join other active Austinites, taking full advantage of the excellent weather. Stroll through the urban oasis of Central Park with its stately live oaks, a fountain, and paths. Enjoy delicious dining, relaxing spas, and special events at Triangle Park.

Education is paramount. Triangle State is not only close to excellent further education at UT but also hosts an array of premier public, private, and charter schools. Highly rated offerings include the Liberty Arts & Science Academy, an excellent magnet school within Austin Independent School District. This high school prepares students for success and is ranked #1 in the area. Safety is another perk of this neighborhood with a low crime rate with little to no violent crime.

Triangle State is characterized by a mix of residential options including single family homes, townhomes, and luxury apartments. With an average home price of just over $785,000, residents appreciate the central location, access to quality education, easy commutes, and proximity to major Austin attractions including Sixth Street, The University of Texas, and Zilker Park.

Live in a desirable neighborhood that ranks in the top five for raising a family, young professionals, and best places to live in Austin. Triangle State with its live-work-play environment is an ideal setting in Austin.

Downtown Austin

Downtown Austin is second on the list. If you are craving a vibrant, active area with abundant amenities and entertainment, you will want to explore this area for your next new home. The “Live Music Capital of the World” will have you relishing the live music venues including Antones and the Red River Cultural District as well as an array of bars and eateries on Austin’s famous Sixth Street. The Long Center and the Moody Center are convenient locations to catch a concert.

Downtown Austin offers a highly walkable area with a mix of high-rise condos, modern developments, and historic buildings. From the Texas State Capitol to the Driskill Hotel to the contemporary Blanton Museum of Art, there are unique explorations and culture. Bordered by Lady Bird Lake, spend your free time kayaking, paddleboarding, and jogging on the scenic trails. Frequent festivals including Austin City Limits and SXSW bring entertainment to life along with iconic eateries and nightlife.

With a variety of public, private, charter, and secondary education options, this area puts your mind at ease for education. The University of Texas, Huston-Tillotson University, and St. Edward’s University are all within easy reach. To the north the longstanding private Southwestern University is a liberal arts choice while the popular Texas State University is found 30 miles to the south. This urban area still reports a crime rate about 30% below the national average making it a safe choice.

The median home value in this area is $735,500 with a variety of high-rise condos and luxury apartments. Take a look at available listings in Downtown Austin. With proximity to several tech companies including Apple, Oracle, Dell, Amazon, and several major healthcare centers, career opportunities are abundant. Downtown Austin is rated #1 for young professionals.

If you are ready to enjoy a dense, urban environment, where nightlife, entertainment, and outdoor spaces provide hours of enjoyment, downtown Austin might be the spot for you!

Hyde Park

Hyde Park is a charming neighborhood that evokes peace and tranquility in central Austin. This historic neighborhood is just to the north of downtown Austin and is an ideal choice for families, professionals and retirees looking for easy access to the city’s amenities while enjoying a quiet, suburban feel with a walkable vibe.

Hyde Park is home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops, many of which have been established for decades. Popular spots include Shuggie's Trash Pie + Natural Wine, offering creative pizzas and a great selection of natural wines, and Quack's 43rd Street Bakery, a beloved local bakery perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat. Hyde Park is also close to the North Loop District, a hub for quirky vintage shops, breweries, and bars.

Hyde Park is well-connected to the rest of Austin. Attend sporting events at The University of Austin, jog at Lady Bird Lake, or take the kids on the train ride in Zilker Park, all just a short drive away. Additionally, Hyde Park is conveniently located near major highways, allowing quick access to downtown Austin, the I-35 corridor, and major employers.

When it comes to schools, Hyde Park is served by the Austin Independent School District, and the neighborhood is known for having several highly rated schools nearby, including McCallum High School and Austin High School. Families are drawn to the area not only for its charm but also for the educational opportunities available for children including Hyde Park Schools, a Christ-centered, college-preparatory schools.

Choose from historic bungalows and cottages to mid-century modern homes and newly renovated properties. There are also newer, more contemporary homes and townhomes for those seeking a modern aesthetic. The area offers a mix of single-family homes, duplexes, and apartments, making it a flexible option for different budgets and preferences with the median home value at $721,000.

This safe neighborhood is sure to impress with both violent and nonviolent crimes well below the national average. Hyde Park is just east of Triangle State. With its charming atmosphere, proximity to city attractions, and community-focused feel, Hyde Park is an ideal place to call home for those looking to experience the best of Austin living.

Gateway

Gateway is another Austin neighborhood worthy of consideration as its location, amenities, and residential offerings are superb. Located in North Austin, Gateway is a mecca for shopping and entertainment with The Arboretum full of high end retailers and restaurants as well as The Domain with luxury shops, eateries, and Rock Rose Avenue, lined with bars, clubs, and music venues. With movie theaters, Topgolf, and beautiful open spaces, this part of Austin covers a lot of bases.

Major employers, including tech companies like IBM, Samsung, and Dell, are all within an easy commute. While Gateway is largely commercial, it offers great opportunities to enjoy the outdoors including Great Hills Park for hiking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Take in Austin’s scenic beauty at the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve, located nearby. Additionally, locals can enjoy running and biking along the trails at Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park, known for its wooded trails and off-leash dog areas.

Gateway is served by the Austin Independent School District (AISD) and Round Rock Independent School District (RRISD), depending on the exact location. Schools in the area include Hill Elementary, Murchison Middle School, and Anderson High School, which is known for its strong International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Other educational options include several private and charter schools including the Austin Jewish Academy and Magellan International School. Higher education institutions like Austin Community College’s Northridge Campus and The University of Texas at Austin are within a reasonable commute.

This convenient neighborhood with its urban and suburban comforts offers well-rounded amenities and safety. Median home value in Gateway is $490,000. From single family homes to luxury apartments, the choice to live in an area that is close to major thoroughfares, green spaces, and activities is an easy one in Gateway.

North Burnet

North Burnet is a central Austin neighborhood that has transformed into a high-density, mixed-use area with retail hubs, office spaces, and modern homes. North Burnet is also close to The Domain offering its bars, shops, and eateries. Take some Instagram photos at the Museum of Ice Cream or grab everything from delectable steaks to sushi and crepes at the many delicious restaurants.

North Burnet offers a dynamic urban lifestyle without the congestion of the city center. The neighborhood attracts young professionals, tech workers, and families looking for a balance between city living and suburban amenities. One of the biggest draws is the access to schools in both Austin ISD and Round Rock ISD. North Burnet puts you close to Dell Diamond and the Round Rock Express minor league baseball games. Soccer fan? Cheer for the Austin FC at the Q2 Stadium, a premier soccer arena.

Median home values in this part of the city come in at $200,000. Overall, North Burnet’s transformation into a vibrant, mixed-use community makes it one of Austin’s most exciting areas to live, work, and explore. This livable community is an Austin gem.

Hancock

Hancock makes the list for its tree-lined streets and welcoming homes. With a distinctive character, you will find many long-time Austinites living here. Residents appreciate the quieter, residential feel while enjoying proximity to all central Austin has to offer.

This beloved neighborhood is home to excellent schools including Kealing Middle School and Lee Elementary School. Strong academics and excellent fine arts programs are also found at McCallum High School.

Hancock is across I-35 from Mueller, another popular, trendy area that was the former location of the airport filled with shops, boutiques, restaurants, and the Texas Farmers’ Market. Hancock is also home to the Hancock Golf Course, one of the oldest public golf courses in the state.

Outdoor lovers appreciate Hancock’s green spaces, with Hancock Golf Course doubling as a popular spot for jogging and dog walking. Nearby, Eastwoods Park provides picnic areas, a playground, and sports courts, making it a great gathering place for families. The Shoal Creek Trail is also easily accessible, offering a scenic route for biking and hiking that connects to downtown.

Homes here come in at $750,000 in median home value. The combination of historic character, educational excellence, and access to parks and shopping makes Hancock one of Austin’s most desirable neighborhoods.

Upper Boggy Creek

Don’t sleep on Upper Boggy Creek. This revitalized east Austin neighborhood is bordered by I-35 and the University of Texas on the west side. Live northeast of downtown in an eclectic mix of mid-century modern homes, historic homes, and new builds. Median home values in this area are $665,000, offering great value for an inviting location. This neighborhood draws families, professionals, and creatives alike.

One of Upper Boggy Creek’s defining features is its abundance of green spaces and outdoor amenities. You will find residents at Mueller Lake Park, a 30-acre space with a lake, walking trails, and farmers’ market. Swim, play, and spend time on the tennis courts at Patterson Park, another local favorite. The shaded hike and bike trails on Boggy Creek Greenbelt have residents out and active.

Upper Boggy Creek also boasts a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The nearby Mueller development features a thriving retail district, including local boutiques, restaurants, and the Alamo Drafthouse cinema. Cherrywood Coffeehouse, a neighborhood staple, serves up great coffee, live music, and a relaxed atmosphere that embodies Austin’s laid-back vibe. Foodies will appreciate the diverse dining options, from classic Tex-Mex spots to trendy farm-to-table eateries.

The neighborhood is served by Austin Independent School District (AISD), with well-regarded schools such as Maplewood Elementary. Houston-Tillotson University, The University of Texas, and Austin Community College are great option for secondary education.

What makes Upper Boggy Creek truly special is its balance of old and new—historic homes sit alongside modern developments, and a deep-rooted sense of community coexists with Austin’s ever-evolving culture.

Old West Austin

Old West Austin is bordered by the Colorado River to the south, Loop 1 to the west and North Lamar to the east. This historically rich area is just west of downtown putting you close to the Texas State Capitol, Zilker Park, and Barton Springs. Known for its eclectic mix of architectural styles ranging from Craftsman bungalows to grand mansions, this neighborhood is highly walkable and bike-friendly. Relish the peaceful residential feel while still being minutes away from the city's urban core.

This sought-after locale gives you access to top-tier schools. The neighborhood is served by the Austin Independent School District (AISD), with highly rated options like Casis Elementary, O. Henry Middle School, and Austin High School, which has a strong academic reputation. In addition, there are private school options nearby, making it an attractive location for families who prioritize education.

Old West Austin offers a vibrant mix of attractions, green spaces, and entertainment. The neighborhood is home to Deep Eddy Pool, Texas’s oldest swimming pool, fed by natural spring water and a favorite for locals seeking to cool off during the hot summers. Another gem is the Johnson Creek Greenbelt, which provides scenic hiking and biking trails connecting to the larger Lady Bird Lake Trail system. For shopping and dining, nearby Clarksville features an array of boutique stores, coffee shops, and some of Austin’s best restaurants, like Jeffrey’s and Josephine House.

A neighborhood favorite is West Enfield Park, offering sports courts, a swimming pool, and picnic areas. Pease Park, one of Austin’s most beloved green spaces, lies just east of Old West Austin and is famous for its towering trees, trails, and the annual whimsical Eeyore’s Birthday Party celebration.

Homes here have a median home value approaching $1,300,000. This higher price tag puts you in an elite area of Austin with desirable amenities, outstanding schools, easy access to major thoroughfares, and proximity to The University of Texas. Low crime rates with theft being the highest category also put residents’ minds at ease.

With its mix of history, community charm, and easy access to some of Austin’s best amenities, Old West Austin remains one of the city’s most distinctive and desirable places to live. New homes in this zip code will have you being the envy of all.

North University

North University is another excellent Austin locale for potential homebuyers. This neighborhood just to the north of The University of Texas extending to 37^th Street is highly coveted by young professionals and college students. This urban neighborhood has a median home value at just over $728,000. As the 9^th best neighborhood in Austin, get ready for easy convenience to shopping, dining, and entertainment.

The mix of students, professors, and long-time residents appreciate its quiet yet convenient location. The neighborhood’s character is shaped by its proximity to UT, giving it an intellectual and youthful energy while still maintaining a relaxed residential feel. Its walkability, classic architecture, and central location make it one of the more desirable areas in Austin for those who want easy access to downtown without being in the middle of the hustle and bustle.

A strong draw of North University is the well-regarded public schools like Lee Elementary, Kealing Middle School with an advanced academic magnet program, and McCallum High School, known for its fine arts academy. Live within minutes of one of the nation’s top public universities. From museums to concert halls and football games at Darrel K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium there is plenty to explore.

Enjoy recreation and the Texas fresh air at Hemphill Park, a long, shaded greenbelt that runs through the area. Nearby Pease Park provides more outdoor space including trails. The neighborhood benefits from its proximity to The Drag (Guadalupe Street), where you’ll find an eclectic mix of coffee shops, bookstores, vintage boutiques, and local eateries like Kerbey Lane Café serving up its famous for pancakes.

North University provides a quiet, residential setting just minutes from the vibrant energy of downtown Austin and UT’s campus. It’s an ideal choice for academics, young professionals, and families who value a strong sense of community, a walkable neighborhood, and easy access to Austin’s cultural and outdoor amenities.

Crestview

Rounding out our list is Crestview. This beloved Austin neighborhood is centrally located between two major thoroughfares in Austin, Burnet Road and North Lamar Boulevard. This setting is ideal for an urban, suburban vibe with roots dating back to the 1950s. The area is characterized by original homes many of which are mid-century modern style, renovations, and new builds.

Crestview thrives on maintaining its original character with walkable restaurants and shopping. This down-to-earth neighborhood offers a friendly feel that appeals to families, young professionals, and retirees. Crestview is also served by the Austin Independent School District including the highly rated Brentwood Elementary, Lamar Middle School, and McCallum High School. McCallum attracts students from across the city for its Fine Arts Academy. The neighborhood's proximity to top private schools and Montessori options further adds to its appeal for those prioritizing education.

Find what speaks to you close to home. The Crestview Shopping Center, anchored by local favorites like Little Deli & Pizzeria, provides a nostalgic touch with its old-school charm. For a more extensive shopping experience, The Domain is a short drive away, offering high-end retailers, restaurants, and entertainment options. When it comes to outdoor activities, Brentwood Park is a local gem, featuring a playground, sports courts, and open green spaces perfect for picnics or a game of frisbee. Nearby, the Shoal Creek Greenbelt offers scenic trails for walking and biking, giving residents a peaceful escape from city life.

You will find an array of home options including new builds in the area with the median home value around $620,000. People choose to live in Crestview for its unbeatable combination of character, location, and community. It’s centrally located with easy access to downtown Austin via MetroRail or a short drive down North Lamar Boulevard.

Its low crime rate is another bonus. Whether it's grabbing a coffee at a beloved local café, attending a neighborhood event, or simply enjoying the friendly, walkable streets, Crestview continues to be one of Austin’s most desirable and special neighborhoods.

Potential homebuyers in Austin have a difficult decision to make. This state capital is sure to impress with its dynamic options. Given that there are outstanding neighborhoods, friendly people, and an abundance of activities and explorations, you will love living in Austin. Happy house hunting!