Greater Austin Area Descriptions

Central Austin
Central Austin is seeing a revitalization in its housing market, with several loft renovations and the introduction of new housing to historical structures such as the Brown Building. You can find apartment and condominium developments near the Central Business District, the Capitol Complex and the entertainment district, or you can choose to live in the historic communities that surround the University of Texas, where Victorian and craftsman-style homes are available.

East Austin
East Austin is perhaps the most rapidly changing part of the Metro Area.  Many older homes are being remodeled and business development is absolutely booming in the area.  Diversity among the neighborhoods east of I-35 includes groundbreaking master-planned communities, neighborhoods that sprang up in the first half of the century and homes that reflect Austin's Victorian roots.

West Austin
West of downtown to Lake Travis, neighborhoods range from student rentals, and tastefully updated homes to some of the area's most exclusive environs.  Neighborhoods such as Tarrytown, Clarksville, Pemberton Heights, and Brykerwoods have seen some the city's highest rates of appreciation due to their proximity to downtown, gorgeous mid-century homes, and quiet tree-lined streets.

North Austin
Close-in North Austin neighborhoods offer optimal access to the city's north industrial market at an affordable price. Many of the city's new apartment complexes are located in the North Austin area.  Austin's newest and most upscale shopping destination, The Domain, is also just off Loop 1 (Mopac) in North Austin and offers some of the finest shops in the city.

Northwest Austin
This area is one of Austin's fastest-growing sectors, drawing services like Seton Northwest Hospital, as well as considerable retail attention.  Neighborhoods such as Cat Mountain (the views are STUNNING!), Northwest Hills, and Great Hills offer rolling terrain, a mixture of older and newer custom homes, and short commutes to downtown and major shopping areas.

Far Northwest Austin
Newly developed master-planned communities, such as Steiner Ranch, River Place, and Avery Ranch, combine elegant new homes with substantial acreage and terrific access to the lakes, the wealth of retailers at Lakeline Mall and new employment centers.

Lake Travis
As Austin's first and one of its most elegant resort communities, the Lake Travis area offers residents superior access to lake recreation and numerous golf courses.  Lakeway, The Hills of Lakeway, Flintrock Falls, Falconhead, and Rough Hollow are some of the most sought after neighborhoods in the Lake Travis area and offer upscale elegance aplenty.

South Austin
Quirky and a little eccentric, South Austin features the eclectic SOCO shopping district (check out First Thursdays), older close-in neighborhoods like Travis Heights and Zilker as well as the 4,000-acre master-planned community of Circle C Ranch (www.CircleCHomes.com).

Far South Austin
"Bedroom" communities like Manchaca, Buda and Kyle offer country living—from large "spreads" to cozy cottages—within easy reach of the city.

Southeast Austin
Southeast Austin is experiencing a transformation accompanying the airport and Advanced Micro Devices' chip plant.  The expanded highways and system of toll roads are making SE Austin seem closer than ever.  This may be the next area to see a residential boom over the next 10-20 years.

Southwest Austin
Southwest Austin offers the extraordinary natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country and the challenges of strict environmental ordinances.  Whether driving out Highway 290 to Dripping Springs or heading up Highway 71 to Marble Falls, these scenic trips with give you a true taste of the Texas Hill Country experience.

San Marcos
The city of San Marcos, south of Austin, is a charming community with a river winding its way through small streets and a historic university reigning on the hill. With shady streets and friendly neighbors, San Marcos attracts many who want to escape the everyday bustle of the big city. Affordable homes are available in master-planned communities.

Round Rock and Pflugerville
Two of the fastest growing cities in the area (and the nation!), Round Rock and Pflugerville offer close proximity to new employment centers as well as newly built homes.  Homes are very affordable in these areas and as Austin continues to grow and expand, both cities will continue to see strong growth.

Georgetown
Georgetown is being transformed from a quiet county seat to a bustling hot spot. With the creation of the Sun City Georgetown retirement community, steady growth has given way to an out-and-out boom.  The historic downtown district has already experienced a renaissance, with upscale shops, restaurants, and business turning a once-sleepy town into a quaint and desirable destination for those who crave a slower pace.