12 Best Neighborhoods in Austin to Live in 2024

Welcome to Austin, Texas, where a relaxed vibe and a booming cultural scene coexist with southern charm. Austin has attracted people looking for a distinctive fusion of tradition and innovation thanks to its live music, outstanding cuisine and thriving tech sector. Every neighborhood in Austin has a soul of its own, so choosing one of the best neighborhoods in Austin, TX, that best fits your needs can be a little tough. Don't worry, though. This blog will help you figure out your ideal neighborhood in Austin!

Best Neighborhoods in Austin, TX

Austin, the capital of Texas, has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1839. Whether you're drawn by its rich history or its modern-day charm, finding the perfect place to call home in this dynamic city is essential. Here are the 12 best neighborhoods in Austin, TX, that offer something for everyone.

1. Cedar Park

Population: ~80,000

Known For: Rapid growth, excellent schools, family-friendly, diverse business sector (software, biotech, advanced manufacturing, oil exploration)

Avg. Cost of Living: Slightly above the national average (Index: 105-110)

Crime: Low, safer than many Austin areas

Walkability Score: 34

Cedar Park is the best suburb in Austin. One of Texas's fastest-growing communities is only 16 miles from downtown Austin. Families and homebuilders are drawn to this prosperous, bustling neighborhood. The city works to achieve academic achievement in addition to providing many advantages. A diverse range of companies from the software, biotech, advanced manufacturing, and oil exploration sectors are based in Cedar Park. Prepare to move to Cedar Park as your new residence!

2. Allendale

Population: ~10,000

Known For: Mid-century homes, tree-lined streets, strong community vibe, proximity to downtown Austin

Avg. Cost of Living: Higher than the national average (Index: 120-130)

Crime: Low, considered a safe neighborhood

Walkability Score: 18

Allandale, a unique neighborhood of calm suburban streets minutes from Downtown with easy access to the rest of Austin. Residents here enjoy a diverse selection of neighborhood stores, restaurants, and parks, including the recently renovated Northwest Recreational Center. Allendale is surely one of the best suburbs in Austin.

3. Hyde Park 

Population: ~6,000

Known For: Historic charm, Victorian and Craftsman-style homes, small business sector, tree-shaded streets, proximity to Town Lake and Zilker Park

Avg. Cost of Living: Above national average (Index: 130-140)

Crime: Low to moderate, generally safe

Walkability Score: 78

For families, professionals, and students looking for a perfect location, Hyde Park is one of the best suburbs in Austin, one of the city's first planned suburbs that were built in 1891. It is located in Central Austin and is renowned for its small business sector, charming, tree-shaded among the best neighborhoods in Austin, and neighborhood market that many locals can visit. 

Numerous recreational facilities, 500 acres of open space, paths, and greenbelts can be found in Town Lake and Zilker Park, which are both to the south of the neighborhood. The majority of the homes in the suburb of Austin are older, character bungalows constructed in the Victorian and Craftsman styles. Hyde Park surely sounds like the best place to live in Austin TX.

4. Mueller

Population: ~14,000

Known For: Sustainable, transit-oriented community; repurposed former airport; diverse, walkable neighborhood

Avg. Cost of Living: Above national average (Index: 120-130)

Crime: Low to moderate, generally safe

Walkability Score: 70

Central Austin is home to Mueller, one of the best neighborhoods in Austin. Formerly the Austin Mueller Airport, this self-described "sustainable, transit-oriented community" is littered with remnants of the former airport. These remnants include hangars converted into studios and stages, giving this walkable community a diverse feel.

Residents of Mueller appreciate having a local grocery store on-site, a weekly farmers market, and quick access to both downtown Austin and Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. Healthcare workers will appreciate being close to significant employers like Dell Seton Medical Centre and Dell Children's Medical Centre. This is truly one of the best places to live near Austin, TX. 

5. 78704

Population: ~50,000 (includes neighborhoods like Zilker, Bouldin Creek, South Congress, Travis Heights)

Known For: Trendy, vibrant area; historic homes; lush landscapes, music festivals, and scenic views of Austin and the Colorado River

Avg. Cost of Living: Above national average (Index: 130-140)

Crime: Moderate, varies by neighborhood

Walkability Score: 63

We're now entering those popular neighborhoods in Austin! Zilker, Bouldin Creek, South Congress, and Travis Heights are all part of the 78704 zip code. Another respectable 37/50, it's south of the river and a great place for young adults to settle down. Travis Heights is a residential neighborhood with grand ancient homes that soar to tremendous heights and lush landscaping. 

Its sloping streets, which on clear days allow you to enjoy picture-postcard vistas of Austin, are one of the features that set it apart from other parts of the city. From various locations, you can see the Colorado River, wander around the parks, and on weekends, you might come across a brand-new music festival or art exhibit. 78704 sure does sound like one of the best places to live near Austin, TX. 

6. East Austin

Population: ~55,000

Known For: Vibrant, eclectic mix of old and new; historic homes alongside modern developments; locally owned eateries, cocktail bars, and independent shops

Avg. Cost of Living: Above national average (Index: 115-125)

Crime: Moderate, varies by specific area

Walkability Score:

This area mixes ancient homes and modern technology, making it perfect for a mix of old and new. Ideally suited for independent movers. A hip area for youngsters. But now that has all changed, and it has earned the title of one of the best neighborhoods in Austin. East Austin is lively and eccentric. It teems with locally owned eateries, charming cocktail bars, and independent shops. For those who like to experiment and steer clear of the popular bars and eateries that many have grown weary of, the neighborhood's general ambience is great.

7. South Lamar

Population: ~30,000

Known For: Vibrant nightlife, diverse dining and shopping options, creative community (musicians, artists, entrepreneurs)

Avg. Cost of Living: Above national average (Index: 120-130)

Crime: Moderate, generally safe but varies by specific area

Walkability Score: 54

For those interested in variety, nightlife, and the Texas two-step, South Lamar is the place to be. The neighborhood of South Lamar, popularly known as SoLa, is currently expanding with eateries, bars, stores, businesses, homes, food trailers, and much more and is excellent for driven people. The area is packed with creative people, including musicians, painters, and entrepreneurs, making it a great place for young people and families with progressive values.

There are many restaurants and shops around that will encourage you to leave the car at home and go on a walk instead, despite the fact that the traffic jams during peak hours can be a bit of a headache. South Lamar sure does sound like one of the best places to live in Austin, TX.

8. Riverside

Population: ~25,000

Known For: Budget-friendly housing, diversity, proximity to Downtown and the University of Texas

Avg. Cost of Living: Below Austin's average (Index: 95-105)

Crime: Higher than average, one of the lower safety ratings in Austin

Walkability Score: 63

For young professionals or students on a tight budget, Riverside is a terrific home base and one of the best places to live in Austin, TX. Additionally, there are a variety of international eateries to pick from due to the neighborhood's extreme diversity. Riverside is the ideal place for students who want to live off-campus and near the river because it is close to both Downtown and the University of Texas. 

Despite being well-connected and accessible by foot, Riverside has one of the lowest safety ratings of all the neighborhoods we evaluated. There are several fantastic bars, cafés, restaurants, and shops along East Riverside Drive. Plus, the Guerrero Colorado River Metro Park. 

9. South Manchaca

Population: ~7,000

Known For: Quiet, working-class neighborhood; ideal for young families, college students, and healthcare workers

Avg. Cost of Living: Below Austin's average (Index: 95-105)

Crime: Low, considered one of Austin's safest neighborhoods

Walkability Score: 51

A short distance from the bustle of Downtown and South Congress, this location is ideal for young families or college students. South Manchaca is a quiet working-class neighborhood. There are parks and decent schools in the neighborhood, which is ideal for families. It also ranks as one of Austin's safest neighborhoods and is reasonably priced. This area of the city is perfect for healthcare workers and elderly who value their health and want to reside close to the St. David South Austin Hospital. Families make up 53% of South Manchaca's population, and the median age ranges from 25 to 44.

10. Downtown

Population: ~13,000

Known For: Stunning Colorado River views, vibrant business and entertainment districts, upscale urban living

Avg. Cost of Living: Significantly above national average (Index: 140-150)

Crime: Moderate, higher than suburban areas

Walkability Score: 42

Characterized by beautiful Colorado River views, Downtown Austin is home to a thriving business area, a thriving entertainment area, and upscale urban residences. People who live in this metropolitan area enjoy a refined, upmarket lifestyle. Since it is located in the city's center and offers easy access to local employers by walking, biking, and the metro, as well as world-class shopping, fine dining, and peaceful recreation, real estate in this region is typically more expensive than in other Austin neighborhoods. Downtown is, without a doubt, one of the best places to live in Austin, TX.

11. Georgetown

Population: ~80,000

Known For: Small-town charm, rapid growth, proximity to Hill Country, outdoor activities (Lake Georgetown, Inner Space Cavern, Blue Hole Park)

Avg. Cost of Living: Around or slightly below national average (Index: 95-105)

Crime: Low, considered a safe area

Walkability Score: 23

Farmland is considered to be one of the best neighborhoods to live in Austin, TX. Farmland to the east and the Hill Country to the west separate Georgetown, a picturesque city that spans the Balcones Escarpment. Both, economically and based on population, this neighborhood has been expanding quickly in recent years. 

Georgetown has something for everyone because of its small-town charm, closeness to the Hill Country, and excitement of the big city. Visit any of the many surrounding outdoor activities, including Lake Georgetown, the Inner Space Cavern, and Blue Hole Park, or browse the distinctive shops of Historic Georgetown Square.

12. Franklin Park

Population: ~9,000

Known For: Abundance of parks, affordability, environmentally friendly, ideal for college students

Avg. Cost of Living: Below Austin's average (Index: 90-100)

Crime: Moderate, generally safe but varies by specific area

Walkability Score: 40

Ideal for adults in their 30s, you'll find this one of the best neighborhoods in Austin, TX. Franklin Park offers a lot of parks, is reasonably priced, and is also environmentally friendly. For college students, young professionals, or families with teenagers, Franklin Park is a good choice. There are a few stores, eateries, and pubs in this mainly residential area of Austin, but housing is its main draw. The University of Texas, Downtown, and major roads are all easily accessible from the region. Parks are everywhere in Franklin Park, as the name suggests. For serious hikers, cyclists, or campers, McKinney Falls State Park is the perfect destination. 

How to Choose the Best Places to Live in Austin, TX?

Austin, known as the Live Music Capital of the World, is one of the fastest-growing cities in America. With tech giants like Tesla, Apple, Google, and Facebook establishing strong presences, Austin's job market and cultural scene are booming. The city is famous for its breathtaking sunsets, expansive natural swimming pools, and vibrant live music scene. 

However, with a thriving job market comes a competitive rental market, driving up prices and intensifying the search for housing. As new housing developments spring up almost weekly, Austin’s neighborhoods are evolving rapidly. If you’re looking for student accommodation in Austin, then amber can help simplify your search and find the perfect place to call home.

We hope this blog's exploration of the best neighborhoods in Austin has provided you with valuable insights and inspiration for finding the perfect place to call home in the heart of Texas. Whether you’re captivated by the vibrant energy of downtown, the peaceful beauty of the suburbs, or the charm of historic districts, there’s a neighborhood in Austin that’s sure to capture your heart. While these are just a few neighborhoods in Austin, don't worry there are many rich neighborhoods in London which might make your life easier and luxurious.