Best Austin Neighborhoods for Families

When we talk about what is the best neighborhoods for people with families, we primarily talking about schools. But we also talk about having great communities, location to local amenities such as playgrounds, family-friendly dining, and close to good grocery stores. Here are our picks for the best neighborhoods for families in Central Austin.

1. Bryker Woods

A neighborhood with a classic character with homes built from the 1930s to 1950s. Homes in Bryker Woods come in a wide range of styles from one-story cottages to newly built modest homes surrounded by mature trees. The residential neighborhood is also a walkable area with walking distance to plenty of the city's finest local restaurants and shopping establishments. Bryker Woods also has its own elementary school and abundant green space with the Shoal Creek Park and the Seiders Springs Park as a great destination to spend some family time.

2. Rosedale

Rosedale is another neighborhood with a charming and historic character with homes that have been built during the 1930s to the 1940s through most homes in the area have been recently remodeled. Rosedale's community consists of single professionals and young families and long-time residents which makes the area ideal for families due to the amenities, safety, and top-rated school in the surrounding area. Residents in Rosedale enjoy the major parks and greenbelts such as the and close proximity of downtown Austin, University of Texas - Austin as well as essential stores, dining, and shopping options.

3. Northwest Hills

Family-friendly, scenic, and an unexpected appeal to green spaces. Northwest Hills is one of the stylish neighborhoods in Austin known for its panoramic scenery and stunning views of the Texas Hill Country. The quiet streets and beautifully landscaped lawns are an eye-catcher. Residents can easily access downtown as well as high-end retail shops in The Domains and The Arboretum. Single-family homes and condos sprawl the neighborhood making it ideal for students young professionals, and families. Greenspaces such as Bull Creek, Bright Leaf Preserve, and Mount Bonnell are accessible for families to enjoy hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities available.

4. Crestview

Located to the North of Austin's urban core of 222 between North Lamar and Burnet Road. Crestview feels like a small town though it’s just a few miles from Downtown Austin. It's full of mid-century homes with small porches and contemporary bungalows. You'll also be able to find new builds as well as homes that have retained their original exteriors. Crestview residents have access to major parks such as Northwest District Park, Wooten Park, and Brentwood Park. The neighborhood is also convenient to several public bus lines in Austin that lead to downtown.

5. Barton Hills

Barton Hills is a small residential neighborhood located southwest of downtown Austin across Lady Bird Lake. The boasts itself for being a family-friendly neighborhood and easy access to several popular attractions in South Austin. Barton Hills draws many families with children because it has some of the best and most desirable schools in Austin including Barton Hills Elementary; the school offers strong environmental programs, hands-on science education, and their arts and culture program. Families can enjoy visiting Barton Springs Pool, Zilker Park, and the Barton Creek Greenbelt as it can be just within walking distance from some areas within the neighborhood. Homes in Barton Hills are surrounded by large trees which creates a one-of-a-kind atmosphere for its residents.

6. Zilker

For many locals, Zilker is one of the most desirable places to settle down. The abundant green spaces, parks, shopping, and dining options are just about walking distance from some homes. Zilker is known for its natural beauty and accessible comforts when it comes to getting around the city. This family-friendly neighborhood offers residents convenient access to open spaces, establishments, and top-rated schools such as Zilker Elementary School. Zilker attracts a wide range of residents from young professionals, families, and several creative individuals.

7. North Loop

North Loop is a charming, vintage neighborhood with convenient access to Downtown Austin, University of Texas - Austin. The neighborhood is also considered to be quiet and safe and popular among students, young professionals, and families. Though it was once a largely residential neighborhood, today, it has plenty of restaurants, cafes, bars, and grocery stores to which are just walking distance from the neighborhood. 

8. Highland

Austin’s new neighborhood is rich in history, energy, and opportunity. Highland includes hundreds of apartments, office spaces, diverse shops, and a new high-tech campus for Austin Community College. The neighborhood is best known for the prominent shopping center, the Highland Mall. The family-friendly neighborhood has local eateries, parks, playgrounds, and other outdoor amenities perfect for spending quality time with your family.

9. Allandale

Allandale is a quiet suburban neighborhood located in North-Central Austin with close proximity to the center of the town providing convenient access to local highways and roads. Allandale is also one of the most walkable neighborhoods in Austin because of its low traffic and quiet setting. Homes within the area vary with different styles such from Craftsman-style homes to custom, luxury homes. Various amenities include activities in Lake Austin, Beverly Sheffield Park, Northwest Recreation Center, and Northwest District Park.

10. Western Trails

Located in Southwest Austin, Western Trails is a well-established neighborhood within the 78745 zip code that features homes within a great location. Residents in the area enjoy the urban life with a relaxing small-town atmosphere. In less than a mile away, Westgate Shopping Center is situated where you can go for a grocery run at the Central Market or relax and lounge with friends at the Hyde Park Bar and Grill. Western Trails has numerous amenities available for residents to enjoy, one of the perks of living in the area is the proximity to great parks and playgrounds nearby.

11. Travis Heights

Located within the epicenter of Keep Austin Weird in the hippie area of 78704, Travis Heights is one of the oldest neighborhoods in South Austin wherein mansions in the area were built from the early 1920s surrounded by mature trees and hilly streets. The historic, quaint with a mix of hip and unconventional offers the best of both worlds for its residents. Travis Heights is a highly walkable neighborhood with convenient reach to the area’s shopping and dining district of SoCo. The neighborhood has a population that consists of students, longtime residents, and families that get the perks of living close to outdoor attractions enjoy the activities available near the neighborhood.

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