The Best Suburbs of Austin

So, you're thinking about moving to the Austin area? This vibrant city has been attracting new residents like never before, and it's no surprise why. With a unique blend of tech opportunities, outdoor living, and cultural charm, Austin has something special. But perhaps you're not looking to live right in the heart of the city. You want more space, excellent schools, a strong sense of community — all while still enjoying quick access to everything Austin has to offer. That’s where the surrounding suburbs come into play.

Whether you're raising a family, launching a career, or looking toward a peaceful retirement, Austin’s suburbs offer a perfect slice of Texas Hill Country life. Let’s take a tour of some of the top suburbs that could be the ideal spot for you to put down roots.

Key Insights for the Best Suburbs in Austin

• Vibrant Austin Area: The suburbs around Austin offer a unique blend of space, community, and excellent schools, making them ideal for families, professionals, and retirees looking for a peaceful lifestyle with quick access to urban amenities.

• Top Suburbs: Notable suburbs include Round Rock (tech hub), Cedar Park (family-friendly), West Lake Hills (luxury living), Bee Cave (natural beauty), and Pflugerville (affordable housing), each providing distinct features and community vibes.

• Housing & Education: Housing markets vary widely, with median home values ranging from around $395,812 in Pflugerville to over $2 million in West Lake Hills, while top-rated school districts like Leander ISD and Lake Travis ISD enhance the appeal for families.

Discovering Your Dream Suburb

Choosing the right suburb is like picking the perfect pair of cowboy boots: it’s got to fit just right. Location is key, but there’s more to it than that. You’ve got individual priorities: schools, community feel, real estate affordability, and proximity to Austin.

That’s why we'll explore each suburb based on these key factors—commute times, standout features, housing markets, and of course, the unique Texas vibes that each place offers. Let's take a tour of the best suburbs of Austin.

Round Rock

Just north of Austin, Round Rock is much more than a tech hub, though Dell Technologies has certainly made its mark here. This city is steeped in history, with the famous "round rock" in Brushy Creek harkening back to its early pioneer days.

• Housing Market: A variety of options from starter homes to larger, more luxurious properties. The median home price is $434,370, slightly above the national average, but the higher median household income balances things out.
• Local Perks: Catch a baseball game at Dell Diamond or cool off at the Kalahari Resort’s indoor water park. Shoppers can hit the Round Rock Premium Outlets, while history buffs will enjoy the Williamson Museum.
• Education: Round Rock ISD is highly regarded, making this an excellent choice for families.

Round Rock strikes the perfect balance between work, play, and education. It’s a great place to settle down and still feel connected to Austin’s energy.

>> VIEW HOMES FOR SALE IN ROUND ROCK <<

Cedar Park

West of Round Rock, Cedar Park is one of the fastest-growing suburbs, balancing a booming tech industry with a low crime rate and excellent schools. It’s no wonder families flock here.

• Housing Market: With steady growth, the real estate market is competitive but diverse, featuring both modern homes and established neighborhoods.
• Local Perks: Cedar Park's Brushy Creek Lake Park is a favorite for outdoor activities, and the H-E-B Center hosts concerts and sporting events.
• Education: Part of the highly rated Leander ISD, which is one of the best districts in the region.

Cedar Park offers all the comforts of suburban life while keeping you close to Austin’s tech boom. This is a top choice for families seeking stability and community.

>> VIEW HOMES FOR SALE IN CEDAR PARK <<

West Lake Hills

For those seeking luxury, West Lake Hills offers sprawling estates, privacy, and breathtaking views of the Colorado River. This affluent suburb is home to prestigious neighborhoods like Stonehedge Estates, where privacy and natural beauty go hand in hand.

• Housing Market: The median home value is around $2,057,113, with some properties commanding much more. It’s a mix of jaw-dropping estates and occasional fixer-uppers.
• Local Perks: With close proximity to Lake Travis, residents enjoy water sports and scenic drives. The area is also served by the highly rated Eanes ISD, a top performer in Texas.

West Lake Hills combines natural beauty with a sophisticated lifestyle. It’s perfect for those seeking a high-end community with close access to Austin.

>> VIEW HOMES FOR SALE IN WEST LAKE HILLS <<

Bee Cave

Bee Cave, nestled just west of Austin, combines the tranquility of nature with modern conveniences. The rolling hills are dotted with luxury homes, and it offers access to outdoor spaces like Bee Cave Sculpture Park, as well as top-tier shopping at the Hill Country Galleria.

• Housing Market: Known for its upscale homes, Bee Cave offers a mix of new construction and established properties.
• Local Perks: Art lovers will enjoy the local sculpture park, while shoppers have plenty to explore at the Galleria. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of nearby trails and parks.
• Education: The Lake Travis ISD serves Bee Cave, offering highly rated schools with a reputation for strong academics and athletics.

Bee Cave offers the perfect combination of art, nature, and modern convenience. It's ideal for those who want a peaceful yet refined lifestyle close to Austin.

>> VIEW HOMES FOR SALE IN BEE CAVE <<

Pflugerville

Pflugerville is located just north of Austin and provides the perfect mix of small-town charm and big-city convenience. With its affordable homes, friendly community, and close proximity to Austin, Pflugerville is growing fast.

• Housing Market: More affordable than some neighboring suburbs, with a median home price around $395,812.
• Local Perks: Lake Pflugerville is a hotspot for swimming, kayaking, and fishing, while the Pflugerville Pfarmer’s Market is a local favorite.
• Education: Pflugerville ISD offers quality schools, making it a top pick for families.

Pflugerville is a great choice for homebuyers looking for affordability and a tight-knit community. It offers easy access to Austin while maintaining a small-town atmosphere.

>> VIEW HOMES FOR SALE IN PFLUGERVILLE <<

Leander

Leander, located northwest of Austin, is one of the fastest-growing cities in the state. It’s known for its strong community, excellent schools, and outdoor activities.

• Housing Market: Leander has seen significant growth in new developments, with a range of options from starter homes to luxury properties.
• Local Perks: Nature lovers will appreciate Devine Lake Park, while commuters benefit from the CapMetroRail, offering direct access to downtown Austin.
• Education: Leander ISD is highly rated, providing excellent educational opportunities for students.

Leander is perfect for families who want room to grow and access to top-notch schools. Its rapid development means there’s plenty of new home options to explore.

>> VIEW HOMES FOR SALE LEANDER <<

Georgetown

Georgetown, located north of Austin, is known for its picturesque town square, historic homes, and growing suburban developments.

• Housing Market: A mix of historic properties and new construction, with a median home price of about $1,391,770.
• Local Perks: Explore the iconic Blue Hole Park or attend one of the many community events hosted in the town square.
• Education: Georgetown ISD serves the area, with strong schools and extracurricular options.

Georgetown’s historic charm and strong sense of community make it a wonderful place to call home. Whether you want a piece of history or a new home, Georgetown has it all.

>> VIEW HOMES FOR SALE IN GEORGE TOWN <<

Dripping Springs

Just southwest of Austin, Dripping Springs is known for its scenic landscapes, luxury homes, and wineries. This Hill Country gem provides a peaceful retreat from the city, while still being close enough for commuting.

• Housing Market: Dripping Springs features a range of properties, from expansive estates to cozy ranch-style homes.
• Local Perks: Known for its wineries, outdoor activities, and Hamilton Pool Preserve, this area is perfect for nature lovers. It also offers an excellent school system through Dripping Springs ISD.
• Education: Dripping Springs ISD is one of the top-rated districts in the state, known for its academic excellence.

Dripping Springs is the ideal spot for those who want a balance between the beauty of the Hill Country and access to Austin. It's perfect for those looking for a more rural yet luxurious lifestyle.

>> VIEW HOMES FOR SALE IN DRIPPING SPRINGS <<

Shady Hollow

Located in South Austin, Shady Hollow is a well-established neighborhood that provides a suburban feel while remaining close to downtown. Its tree-lined streets and spacious homes make it a favorite among families and retirees alike.

• Housing Market: Shady Hollow offers a variety of well-maintained homes, with spacious yards and mature trees. The median home price is slightly higher than Austin’s average, but the neighborhood’s peaceful environment is well worth it.
• Local Perks: Residents enjoy access to Shady Hollow Community Park, nearby shopping centers, and top-tier schools.
• Education: Austin ISD serves the area, offering excellent public and private school options.

Shady Hollow offers a quiet, close-knit community feel while keeping residents close to the action of downtown Austin. It’s perfect for families seeking a peaceful lifestyle near the city.

>> VIEW HOMES FOR SALE IN SHADY HOLLOW <<

Lakeway

Just west of Austin, Lakeway provides resort-style living near Lake Travis. With a focus on outdoor activities like boating, golfing, and hiking, Lakeway is a popular choice for those seeking a relaxed yet luxurious lifestyle.

• Housing Market: Lakeway features a mix of upscale homes and lakefront properties, with median home prices higher than Austin’s average.
• Local Perks: Residents enjoy easy access to Lake Travis for boating, as well as premier golf courses like the Flintrock Falls and The Hills. The area is served by the excellent Lake Travis ISD.
• Education: Lake Travis ISD provides excellent education options, known for its strong academic and athletic programs.

Lakeway offers a resort-like atmosphere and outdoor adventure, making it a perfect spot for those who love water sports and luxurious living near the lake.

>> VIEW HOMES FOR SALE IN LAKEWAY <<

Choosing An Austin Suburb

Deciding on the best Austin suburb means aligning your lifestyle with what each area has to offer. Do you want top-tier schools, a vibrant cultural scene, or easy access to nature? Whatever your preferences, there's a suburb around Austin that will feel like home.

Whether you’re drawn to the tech hubs of Round Rock and Cedar Park, the luxury of West Lake Hills, or the family-friendly vibe of Pflugerville and Leander, there’s an ideal place waiting for you. Ready to take the next step? Contact us and explore homes in these desirable Austin suburbs.

Resources:

• Zillow