Living in Austin: More Than Live Music
Austin isn’t just tacos, tech, and tunes. It’s one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, known for strong job growth, outdoor access, creative culture, and neighborhoods that range from urban high-rises to quiet, tree-lined streets.
Why it matters: Whether you’re relocating, buying your first home, or moving into new construction, Austin offers communities designed for every stage of life.
What’s ahead: A breakdown of housing, safety, schools, amenities, and vibe across 10 of Austin’s top neighborhoods to help you find your best fit.
1. Triangle State
Population: 3,107 | Median Home Value: $882K | Schools: A–
A highly walkable, central neighborhood just north of UT Austin.
Homes: Single-family homes, townhomes, luxury apartments
Safety: Low crime, minimal violent incidents
Schools: AISD + Liberty Arts & Science Academy (top magnet)
Perks: Central Park, retail, dining, UT access
Vibe: Live-work-play, urban yet relaxed
Why it’s #1: Location, walkability, and top-tier education access
2. Downtown Austin
Population: 14,108 | Median Home Value: $811K | Schools: A–
Austin’s cultural and entertainment core.
Homes: High-rise condos, modern developments
Safety: Crime below national average
Schools: UT Austin, Huston-Tillotson, St. Edward’s nearby
Perks: Sixth Street, Lady Bird Lake, Austin City Limits, Moody Center
Vibe: Energetic, social, walkable
The appeal: Nightlife, careers, and outdoor fun in one zip code
3. Hyde Park
Population: 6,733 | Median Home Value: $841K | Schools: A
A historic, tree-lined neighborhood with timeless charm.
Homes: Bungalows, cottages, mid-century and renovated homes
Safety: Crime well below national average
Schools: AISD + private options including Hyde Park Schools
Perks: Local cafés, North Loop, central access
Vibe: Quiet, walkable, community-oriented
Why buyers love it: Classic Austin living close to downtown
4. Gateway (North Austin)
Population: 1,496 | Median Home Value: $490K | Schools: A
A convenient hub near shopping, dining, and major employers.
Homes: Single-family homes, townhomes, apartments
Safety: Established and residential
Schools: AISD & RRISD + private schools
Perks: The Domain, Arboretum, Balcones Canyonlands Preserve
Vibe: Practical, active, well-connected
Why it’s a win: Value and access to tech corridors
5. North Burnet
Population: 9,853| Median Home Value: $200K | Schools: B+
A fast-growing mixed-use area with modern energy.
Homes: Condos, apartments, new developments
Safety: Improving with redevelopment
Schools: AISD & RRISD
Perks: Austin FC, Domain dining, Dell Diamond
Vibe: Young, urban, evolving
Why it stands out: Affordability near Austin’s action
6. Hancock
Population: 5,375 | Median Home Value: $856K | Schools: A
A quiet, established neighborhood with strong community roots.
Homes: Single-family homes with mature landscaping
Safety: Low crime, long-time residents
Schools: Kealing MS, Lee ES, McCallum HS
Perks: Hancock Golf Course, Mueller nearby
Vibe: Residential, friendly, traditional
Top takeaway: Stability, schools, and central convenience
7. Upper Boggy Creek
Population: 6,276 | Median Home Value: $673K | Schools: A
A revitalized East Austin neighborhood blending old and new.
Homes: Historic homes, mid-century, new builds
Safety: Improving, community-driven
Schools: AISD + nearby universities
Perks: Mueller Lake Park, greenbelts, local coffee shops
Vibe: Eclectic, creative, welcoming
Why it’s appealing: Green space, culture, and value
8. Old West Austin
Population: 4,793 | Median Home Value: $1.3M | Schools: A–
One of Austin’s most prestigious historic neighborhoods.
Homes: Craftsman bungalows, estates, luxury homes
Safety: Low crime, well-established
Schools: Casis ES, O. Henry MS, Austin HS
Perks: Zilker Park, Barton Springs, Deep Eddy Pool
Vibe: Elegant, walkable, iconic
The allure: Location, legacy, and top-tier schools
9. North University
Population: 4,714 | Median Home Value: $804K | Schools: A
A walkable neighborhood just north of UT.
Homes: Classic homes, small multifamily properties
Safety: Stable, residential
Schools: Lee ES, Kealing MS, McCallum HS
Perks: The Drag, Darrel K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium, campus culture
Vibe: Intellectual, youthful, community-focused
Why it makes the list: Convenience with a neighborhood feel
10. Crestview
Population: 6,227 | Median Home Value: $623K | Schools: A
A centrally located neighborhood with mid-century charm.
Homes: Original ranch homes, renovations, new builds
Safety: Low crime, family-friendly
Schools: Brentwood ES, Lamar MS, McCallum HS
Perks: Local shopping, parks, MetroRail access
Vibe: Down-to-earth, walkable, welcoming
Why buyers choose it: Character, location, and community
Final Takeaway: 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!
Other Austin Area Resources
Moving to Austin? Here’s Our Relocation Guide
Best Suburbs Near Austin, Texas
Top Five Neighborhoods to Build a House in Austin
How Long Does It Take to Build a Home in Austin?
Top 5 Farmers Markets and Farm Stands in Austin
Best Container Home Builders in Austin
Best Cleaning Services in Austin
Best Tiny Home Builders in Texas
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Julie Gordey
A lifelong educator, Julie Gordey, is a retired school administrator. After years of focusing on education, this University of Texas graduate now travels and enjoys freelance writing for BDX and NewHomeSource.com.