11 Best Neighborhoods to Live in, in Austin, TX

There's a city that captures the best of both worlds: modern innovation and timeless charm. With walkable downtown districts and hill country hideaways, Austin offers a neighborhood for every personality. Location is everything, no matter if you’re building from the ground up or investing in a high-end remodel.

This curated neighborhood guide highlights 11 of the best neighborhoods in Austin, Texas. These top residential areas are ideal for families, professionals, and even retirees. 

1. West Lake Hills

West Lake Hills is a neighborhood where nature and luxury meet. With some of the best public schools in Texas, sweeping hill country vistas, and elegant homes, it is widely considered one of the best neighborhoods in Austin for families. West Lake Hills offers you space, peace, and prestige, all within a short drive of downtown.

It is also consistently ranked among the safest neighborhoods in Austin, making it a top choice if you prioritize both comfort and security. If you live in West Lake Hills and love your home but are looking for a change, a whole home remodel might be just what you need.

2. Rollingwood 

Rollingwood feels like an exclusive retreat despite its close proximity to downtown Austin's energy. This well-established community is known for its large lots, quiet streets, and strong neighborhood spirit. Families are drawn to its calm and connected feel, where you can enjoy a backyard barbecue in one minute and reach a world-class restaurant in under ten minutes.

As one of the top residential areas in Austin, Rollingwood combines the extra space of suburbia with city convenience. If you're looking for a place to settle down and raise a family while still being close to the city, you will love living here.

3. Bee Cave 

Don't let the name fool you. Located on the outskirts of Austin, Bee Cave is an upscale suburb with the perfect mix of luxury living and natural beauty. With newer homes, access to upscale shopping, and scenic surroundings, Bee Cave is one of the best suburbs of Austin for families who value comfort, updated homes, and an outdoor lifestyle. 

The area continues to grow in popularity thanks to its excellent schools, reputation for safety, and high-end homes. If you're thinking about Bee Cave, you're not alone.

4. Barton Creek 

Barton Creek is a private sanctuary known for its expansive estates, golf courses, and rolling hills. Homeowners here enjoy a quiet, refined lifestyle surrounded by nature. With a blend of custom homes and exclusive amenities, Barton Creek is one of Austin’s most prestigious addresses.

It is also regarded as one of the safest neighborhoods in Austin, making it ideal if you're looking for a safe space to call home and peace in your daily life. You can spend time out on the golf course or in the wilder parts of nature.

5. Tarrytown

Tarrytown is a historic neighborhood located near Lake Austin and just minutes from downtown. It is beloved for its mature trees, timeless homes, and calm, welcoming atmosphere. Families often choose Tarrytown for its excellent schools and walkable streets.

With a strong community presence and elegant architecture, it is considered one of the best places to live in Austin, Texas, if you're looking for tradition and access to downtown Austin. The J. Angelo Design Build team is skilled and experienced in historic remodels and additions, including the extra paperwork involved in them. You can take a peek at our portfolio to see just what we mean. 

6. Clarksville 

Let's go to Clarksville. This is where the old juxtaposes with the new. Known for its artistic spirit, historic homes, and neighborhood cafés, it is one of the most walkable neighborhoods in Austin. Its close proximity to downtown makes it a favorite among professionals and creatives who want character, convenience, and a true sense of belonging.

Clarksville is where history meets a modern lifestyle, making it one of central Austin's most distinctive and desirable neighborhoods. If you dream of walking to the cafe from your historic home, you might have just found your space.

7. Old West Austin 

Old West Austin is one of the city’s most elegant and established communities. With beautifully preserved homes, shaded streets, and a rich architectural history, it offers a quiet escape from the city's buzz. You'll love that it's a tried-and-true community, close to downtown yet still has enough privacy, making it one of the best neighborhoods in Austin.

Whether you’re a professional living solo or planning to grow your family, you should consider living in Old West Austin. It's no wonder that it's a neighborhood that's in high demand.

8. Bouldin Creek

Bouldin Creek is a neighborhood known for its eclectic charm and artistic energy. Located just south of downtown, it is filled with a mix of vintage bungalows, new custom homes, and colorful street art. Bouldin Creek is one of the most walkable neighborhoods in Austin and has a strong sense of individuality.

If you want a home that reflects the creativity and energy of the city's dynamic culture, Bouldin Creek should be on your favorites list. Some say it is one of the most Austin-like parts of Austin.

9. Barton Hills 

Barton Hills is South Austin's natural escape into the outdoors. Known for its mid-century homes and access to outdoor recreation, this is one of the best neighborhoods in South Austin for families who love nature and an active lifestyle.

With a mix of quiet streets and easy access to downtown, Barton Hills gives you a laid-back yet connected experience. If you're looking to keep your active lifestyle while living in Austin, this may be the place for you.

10. Rosedale

Rosedale is a charming, centrally located neighborhood known for its cozy homes, walkability, and welcoming vibe. The streets are lined with bungalows, gardens, and friendly neighbors, making it one of the most inviting areas in Austin.

Its proximity to parks, hospitals, and local shops makes Rosedale ideal for young families, retirees, and anyone looking for a safe and neighborly place to call home. You'll have a diverse set of neighbors if you choose this neighborhood.

11. Travis Heights 

Travis Heights is one of Austin’s most dynamic and creative neighborhoods. Located just south of Lady Bird Lake and adjacent to South Congress, it features a mix of historic homes and modern renovations. The neighborhood has a major artistic presence and a walkable layout that invites connection.

With leafy streets, eclectic energy, and an abundance of custom home potential, Travis Heights is one of the best places in Austin, Texas, if you want your home to be as inspired as your lifestyle.

Is Austin, Texas, a Great Place to Live?

The short answer is yes. Of course, we're biased. But this thriving, growing city is attracting people from all over the country, and for good reason. The best neighborhoods form the backbone of an incredible place to live. You can debate whether you should remodel or build in Austin, but there's no doubt about living here. Here are a few reasons this is a great place to live. 

Safety

Austin is known for being one of the safest large cities in the country, and the neighborhoods featured here are among the most secure in the region. Whether you’re raising a family in Westlake, enjoying privacy in Bouldin Creek, or savoring the walkability of Clarksville, these communities offer a strong sense of safety and well-being.

Thriving Economy

Austin is more than a fun place to live; it’s also one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, thanks in large part to its booming economy. Major players in tech, clean energy, healthcare, and real estate have set up shop here, turning the city into a hub of innovation and opportunity. Large, thriving companies have expanded in Austin, creating jobs and drawing in top talent nationwide.

That energy trickles into everything—from the local business scene to the quality of schools and the value of real estate. For you as a homeowner, that means a wise real estate decision and a high quality of life. If you're looking at the cost of building a home in Austin, you're also looking at an excellent investment in your future.

The Culture

Austin’s culture is just the right consistency of innovation, outdoor appreciation, and a fun night out. Known as the Live Music Capital of the World, the city pulses with live shows, festivals, and local talent. But it’s not just about music; Austin thrives on originality. From cutting-edge tech startups to artisan coffee shops and food trucks, it’s a place where big ideas and local flavor coexist.

You can embrace the outdoors by kayaking on Lady Bird Lake, hiking the Barton Creek Greenbelt, or biking through Zilker Park. It’s a city that encourages you to explore, connect, and live boldly. The time it takes to build a custom home is worth it if you're ready to jump into this type of culture.

Deciding Where to Live in Austin

Each of these 11 neighborhoods offers something special, like breathtaking scenery, architectural legacy, modern amenities, or creative flair. From the classic elegance of Tarrytown to the energy in Bouldin Creek, Austin has just the right neighborhood for everyone.

If you're ready to build or transform your home in one of the best neighborhoods in Austin, Texas, J. Angelo Design Build is ready to help you bring that vision to life with a tried and true process. Let us guide you through a design-build experience that honors your location, elevates your style, and reflects the way you live.

Our remodeling cost guide can show you what a remodel might cost if you choose that route. You can also learn how long remodeling will take if you're considering investing in your current home.

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