8 Best Neighborhoods in Austin, Texas
Austin, Texas has become the place to be in recent years. The capital of Texas, Austin is known for its buzzing live music scene, abundant green spaces, and excellent quality of life for its residents. There is truly something for every lifestyle here.
Don’t just take our word for it. Austin recently experienced a 10-year run as the fastest growing city in the country. In fact, U-Haul growth metrics ranked Texas as the number one growth state in the U.S. in 2023 – just ahead of Florida and North Carolina.
Thinking about joining the others who’ve flocked to Austin in recent years? Before you do, it pays to do some research. If you look at Austin Texas on a map, you'll see it covers a wide area (305 miles to be exact). But don't get intimidated by its size, it just means there are plenty of options. So as you're looking for a place to put down roots, we've put together this guide that covers the best neighborhoods in Austin to help you plan your move.
Living in Austin: A Quick Overview
The mantra is “Keep Austin Weird,” but there’s plenty more to the city than that. Here’s a quick overview of Austin, Texas to help you get a better feel for your new home.
- Culture and Entertainment – Nicknamed the “live music capital of the world,” Austin is famous for its live music scene, with many venues hosting gigs across various genres every night of the week. The city also boasts a rich cultural landscape, including art galleries, museums, theaters, and festivals celebrating everything from film and food to technology and creativity.
- Outdoor Recreation – Nestled in the picturesque Texas Hill Country, Austin offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities. From hiking and biking along scenic trails at Mckinney Falls State Park to kayaking and paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake, residents can enjoy an active lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty.
- Food and Drink – Austin is a foodie’s paradise. From world-class barbecue joints and food trucks serving up local favorites to upscale restaurants offering gourmet cuisine, there's something to satisfy every palate. The city is also known for its craft beer breweries, artisanal coffee shops, and trendy cocktail bars.
- Tech Hub – Dubbed the "Silicon Hills," Austin has emerged as a major tech hub, attracting top talent and companies from around the world. The city is home to a thriving startup ecosystem, as well as offices of tech giants like Apple, Google, and Facebook, contributing to its dynamic economy and job market.
- Laid-Back Lifestyle – Despite its rapid growth and urban development, Austin keeps a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere. Residents embrace the city's motto, "Keep Austin Weird," celebrating diversity, creativity, and individuality. With a strong sense of community and a commitment to sustainability, Austin offers a high quality of life for its residents.
- Housing and Cost of Living – Austin is about average in terms of overall cost of living. Housing costs and healthcare are both above average, while groceries, transportation, and utilities are all lower than the national average. The median home price is more than $520,000 and the median rent is about $1,500 per month.
Top 8 Austin Neighborhoods
Hyde Park
Hyde Park is a historic neighborhood (registered to the National Register of Historic Places) just north of the University of Texas campus. It's known for its 19th century Victorian homes, tree-lined streets, and eclectic mix of shops and restaurants. It’s not just for history buffs though – there are plenty of new builds and fresh development as well, making it popular with students, faculty, and young professionals.
Allandale
Allandale is a classic and much sought-after Austin neighborhood found in North Central Austin. It's known for its mature, pecan and oak tree-lined streets, mid-century homes, and strong sense of community. It's also close to highly rated schools, parks, and shopping centers, making it popular with families.
- Median rent: $1,650
- Median home sale price: $730,00
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Mueller
Mueller is a planned community found just east of downtown Austin. On the newer side compared to some other neighborhoods, it offers a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments, as well as parks, green spaces, and community amenities. It's popular with families and young professionals looking for a suburban lifestyle with easy access to downtown.
Downtown
Downtown Austin features a lively urban atmosphere with a mix of residential, commercial, and entertainment options. It's perfect for those who want to be at the heart of the action, with easy access to restaurants, bars, live music venues, and cultural attractions. Naturally, walkability is better here than in most neighborhoods, and you’ll be near public transportation. Music lovers, be sure to hit up Sixth Street, a historic street and entertainment district.
Clarksville
Clarksville is one of Austin's oldest neighborhoods, known for its historic homes, landmarks, and overall high quality of life. It's located just west of downtown and offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. However, it’s not too far from the city either, making it a good option for those that want the best of both worlds. Clarksville is a solid option for everyone from families to young professionals to retirees.
South Congress
One of Austin’s most well-known neighborhoods, South Congress (SoCo) is a trendy destination known for its eclectic mix of locally-owned shops, boutiques, art galleries, and food trucks. It's a popular among locals and tourists alike, with a vibrant atmosphere and a laid-back vibe. Like downtown, SoCo is one of the more walkable areas of the city. It’s also a great place to find live music and tasty food every night of the week.
South Lamar
South Lamar (SoLa) is a diverse neighborhood known for its mix of hipster cafes, gourmet restaurants, and trendy boutiques. It's also close to outdoor attractions like Zilker Park and Barton Springs Pool, making it popular with outdoor enthusiasts. SoLa is on the “come up” more so than some other neighborhoods, making it a great place for young professionals and singles looking to find their place in Austin.
East Austin
Those looking for a mix of urban and quiet, old and new, and fun yet affordable, might want to check out East Austin. This area features many of the same perks found downtown – great dining, nightlife, entertainment, and walkability – but it’s considered more affordable with less “hustle and bustle.” East Austin has a distinct “cool” factor as well. Enjoy great boutiques, cocktail bars, breweries, and more.
Moving to Austin with Help from U-Box by U-Haul!
Hopefully, with this information in hand, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect place to put down roots in Austin, Texas!
When it’s time to move, U-Box® by U-Haul can help get you there conveniently and affordably. Our portable moving and storage containers are delivered right to your doorstep. After you pack, we’ll pick them up and ship them to your destination. Don't settle for just any company for your long-distance move. Choose U-Box containers for a trusted and secure moving experience to Houston.