The Austin area has long-made the lists for best places to live in the U.S., for young people, for empty nesters, but especially for families. As the nation’s 11th largest city and 4th largest in Texas, it’s helpful to know what parts of the capital city when deciding where to live in Austin with kids. In consideration to affordability, average home prices, school ratings, family activities, outdoor recreational opportunities, and things for the parents to enjoy, here is our top 10 list of the best places to live in the Austin area.
Cedar Park
One of the fastest-growing cities in the country, with modern attractions, rich history, and highly-rated schools—Cedar Park has it all. Part of Leander ISD, Cedar Park schools offer low student-teacher ratios and educational opportunities. And, with golf courses, shops, wineries, restaurants, and plenty of park space, it’s no wonder Cedar Park is one of Austin’s most popular suburbs for families. If Cedar Park sounds like the right fit for your family, we have just the MileStone community for your next home at Trento. If you’re interested in a brand new community, The Oaks at Park Street is a boutique community located in the heart of Cedar Park.
Average Home Listing Price: $365K
Round Rock
One of the “best places to live in America,” Round Rock is home to Dell computers headquarters, incredible shopping and entertainment, and one of the best school districts (Round Rock ISD) in the region. Austin is an easy drive down I-35, but with great local restaurants, outdoor parks, premium outlets (and an IKEA location), and a charming and historic downtown district, Round Rock is a place your family might never want to leave. For hopeful Round Rock residents, we still have limited homesites available at Sauls Ranch and new homesites coming soon at The Meadows at Quick Ranch.
Average Home Listing Price: $325K
South Austin
As part of Austin proper, this area of the city comes with all the benefits of living in the capital city without the big city living concerns. With city-favorite restaurants and coffee shops, A+ education at AISD schools, a wide selection of pocket parks (not to mention Barton Creek Greenbelt), and choice area shopping centers—South Austin residents enjoy a mixed urban-suburban feel for a range of safe, family-friendly experiences. Our Vistas of Austin community still has upcoming construction phases for future homesites to make yours.
Average Home Listing Price: $424K
Buda
Buda, located on the Austin-San Antonio corridor, gives easy access to downtown destinations with small-town Texas charm. The acclaimed Hays County Independent School District features some of the area’s top schools and, as Hays County has been one of the fastest-growing counties in the US over the last decade—plenty of job opportunities. There’s also plenty to do, with everything from exploring their historic downtown (complete with restored grain mill) to enjoying movie classics at a drive-in theater. Our MileStone community, Cool Springs, isn’t far from everything Buda has to offer.
Average Home Listing Price: $299K
Leander
With plentiful parks, beautiful homes, top schools, and an endless list of places to explore, the Leander area is a Texas Hill Country standout. Just north of Austin off Hwy 183, living in Leander is convenient for any commute, though with a brand-new downtown district in development—including retail, hotels, restaurants, parks, office space, and a convention center—there will be many opportunities right at home. And, with about half the population under the age of 18 and the low student-teacher ratios of Leander ISD, Leander is a growing city perfect for growing families. Our master-planned community, Larkspur, might have the home you have in mind.
Average Home Listing Price: $340K
Kyle
Kyle is a close neighbor of Buda and fellow contributor to Hays County’s economic growth. Living here ensures children receive a great education from Hays CISD schools, outdoor exploration in beautiful greenspaces like Lake Kyle Park, and plenty of local eateries, retail, and town events for the whole family to enjoy. Our community, Cool Springs, is just three miles out of historic downtown Kyle and could be your next place to call home.
Average Home Listing Price: $249K
Georgetown
Georgetown offers everything families could ever want from the place they call home. With beautiful parks, a designated cultural district, high graduation rates from excellent schools, and a low tax rate—it’s easy to see why it’s been a top ten fastest growing city of its size in the U.S. since 2015. Here, your family can enjoy a day in town square, at the recreation center, or nationally-recognized public library, there’s always something to do together.
Average Home Listing Price: $349K
Pflugerville
Pflugerville is a popular place for growing families, recently named one of the best places to live in Texas. Growing housing opportunities with a lower cost of living, top-performing schools, beautiful public parks, and a slower pace of living make it a preferred choice for families wanting to be near Austin (just 15 miles north) while having a small community experience.
Average Home Listing Price: $305K
Lakeway
Lakeway, named for being on the shores of Lake Travis, provides residents a true Texas Hill Country luxury lifestyle a mere 20 miles from downtown Austin. With boundless outdoor recreation—whether on the lake or exploring the 500 acres of greenbelt—four golf courses, the state-recognized schools of Lake Travis ISD, and a safe community environment, Lakeway might be the perfect retreat for your family to call home.
Average Home Listing Price: $627K
Anderson Mill
Though incorporated into the city of Austin in 2008, northwest off Hwy 183 and FM 620, Anderson Mill maintains its small-town feel. Here, residents have the benefit of nearby retail and dining, the award-winning schools of Round Rock ISD, and fun family-friendly activities like visiting local parks, historic sites, or the Austin Aquarium. With a quarter of the population under 18, young families will feel right at home.
Average Home Listing Price: $350K
Wrapping Up
Whatever area of Austin is most appealing for raising your family, whether you want places within walking distance or to live more off the beaten path, this city has the perfect place. Should you have questions about these or other Austin-area communities, we’re always happy to talk about your home buying needs to find the right fit for your family.