Finding the best neighborhood in Austin for your family
Austin is a diverse city that is suited for a lot of different types of people, from young families just starting out, who might want more access to city life, to more established families who are looking for more of a small town feel, Austin has it covered.
In this blog, I'm going to share the best Austin neighborhoods for families. As an Austinite who has been here for more than a decade, I've seen my friends and classmates settled and started families here in Austin. Some enjoy the city life and wants to stay closer to downtown, some wanted more space and access to parks, so they moved to the suburbs of Austin. This article is intended to for neighborhoods in Austin proper. If you want to know the best suburbs in Austin for families, read it right here.
Allandale, Brentwood, Crestview - Great for young families
Nestled in the heart of Central Austin, I personally call this area the "ABC of Austin". This area is a no brainer for young families as they stand out as neighborhoods that combines the charm of a small town with the convenience of a bustling city due to its fast access to downtown Austin. It's an ideal place for young families looking for a close-knit community. In these lovely neighborhoods, you'll discover a variety of homes, from cozy single-story houses to modern multi-bedroom residences, all surrounded by beautiful oak trees and tranquil creeks. These homes cater to different lifestyles, so you're sure to find one that suits your needs.
Allandale, Brentwood and Crestview offer more than just housing options. It has a lot to offer, including playgrounds, libraries, parks, pools, and places for picnics. You'll also find many family-friendly restaurants nearby, so you can enjoy delicious meals with your loved ones. With both public and private schools in the vicinity, your children will have access to a great education. They'll have the opportunity to learn and grow in a supportive environment. Allandale, Brentwood and Crestview isn't just a place to live; it's a community where your family can thrive and make wonderful memories.
Homes in Allandale
Median Home Prices in 2023: $715,000
Median Home Sizes: 1,468 sqft
Quick Rating:
Quiet: 7.0 — Few sources of noise nearby but Mopac Express way might impact some homes
Pedestrian-friendly: 6.0 — Some day-to-day needs are within walking distance
Parks: 6.7 — Moderate amount of park space nearby
Groceries: 5 — At least one grocery store within a few minutes’ walk
Elementary Schools: 8.4 — At least one elementary school within a 10-minute walk
High Schools: 7.3 — At least one high school within a 10-minute walk
Overall score: 6.7
Homes in Brentwood
Median Home Prices in 2023: $908,000
Median Home Sizes: 1,700 sqft
Quick Rating:
Quiet: 7.4 — Few sources of noise nearby
Pedestrian-friendly: 6.9 — Some day-to-day needs are within walking distance
Parks: 6.7 — Moderate amount of park space nearby
Groceries: 7.4 — At least one grocery store within a few minutes’ walk
Elementary Schools: 8.4 — At least one elementary school within a 10-minute walk
High Schools: 7.3 — At least one high school within a 10-minute walk
Overall score: 7.4
Homes in Crestview
Median Home Prices in 2023: $672,500
Median Home Sizes: 1,450 sqft
Quick Rating:
Quiet: 7.0 — Few sources of noise nearby, except some homes that are close to 183
Pedestrian-friendly: 6.0 — Some day-to-day needs are within walking distance
Parks: 6.7 — Moderate amount of park space nearby
Groceries: 7.4 — At least one grocery store within a few minutes’ walk
Elementary Schools: 8.4 — At least one elementary school within a 10-minute walk
High Schools: 7.3 — At least one high school within a 10-minute walk
Overall score: 7.0
Quick overview of the homes in the ABC neighborhood here in Austin, from my experience as a realtor, homes in this area tend to be older with work need to be done. Some homes are constructed in the 1950s with remodels here and there. I do see a lot more new constructions now after builders takedown the older existing home. I did a home tour of a beautiful new construction home that you can take a look here:
Things to do in Allandale, Brentwood, and Crestview
Allandale, Brentwood, and Crestview located in Austin, is a neighborhood with a youthful vibe, where the most of residents are under 65 (less than 20% are over 65). This area is known for its welcoming atmosphere, it has a Wall of Welcome, to prove that to new residents. Brentwood is a relaxed neighborhood, famous for its classic burger joints like Dan's Hamburgers (watch my review of Dan's Hamburger on YouTube) and it offers plenty of outdoor activities like trial to enjoy. I personally love the access to tons of amenities all around the area. Living here is a goal of mine, haha.
Families can spend quality time at the Brentwood Neighborhood Park, where people play baseball, tennis, or soccer. I went there during a weekend and it was full of parents and their young children. There's also a spot for your family dog to enjoy. Additionally, Brentwood has several schools, such as Brentwood Elementary School and Huntington-Surrey School, catering to high school students, making it a well-rounded community with access to quality educations.
Schools in Allandale, Brentwood, and Crestview
Speaking of schools, Allandale, Brentwood, and Crestviewhas some of the best schools in Austin. With Rosedale(K-12) and Brentwood Elementary School having top reviews according to GreatSchools Rating, young families who are just starting out will be reassured their young children can be well educated. Gullett Elementary(PreK-5) also is a top rated school.
Windsor Park - Great for young professionals and families
This community started in the 1950s, Windsor Park seamlessly combines urban and suburban elements, making it a neighborhood appealing to families and young professionals. Here, you'll discover pockets of tranquility just a stone's throw away from bustling streets filled with conveniences.
In your search for a Windsor Park home, you'll come across mid-century houses, many of which have received recent updates. Compared to other parts of Austin, homes here are reasonably priced.
Bartholomew Park, nestled in the southeast corner of Windsor Park, offers an eclectic mix of activities on its 57-acre grounds, including a disc golf course, a roller derby track, a sports complex, an outdoor pool, and a playground.
The pros of Windsor Park include its affordability and the blend of parks and activities, creating a calm and enjoyable atmosphere. It has quick access to downtown Austin, yet itself has a vibrant community and many local businesses. That's why it's considered one of the best neighborhoods in Austin.
However, it's important to note that some of the homes in this neighborhood maintain their 1950s charm without modern updates. While this can be endearing, it may come with potential homeowner challenges. If you're considering an older home in the area, a thorough home inspection is advisable to ensure it aligns with your contemporary needs.
Homes in Windsor Park
Median Home Prices in 2023: $564,000
Median Home Sizes: 1,709 sqft
Quick Rating:
Quiet: 5.0
Pedestrian-friendly: 5.5 — Some day-to-day needs are within walking distance
Parks: 6.7 — Moderate amount of park space nearby
Groceries: 7.4 — At least one grocery store within a few minutes’ walk
Elementary Schools: 7.4 — At least one elementary school within a 15-minute walk
High Schools: n/a
Overall score: 6.4
Of the top neighborhoods in North Austin area, Windsor Park definitely has more affordable housing.
Things to do in Windsor Park
Windsor Park, a neighborhood transformed by the gentler hum of planes heading to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, is swiftly evolving. Nestled between 51st Street and Highway 290, this community owes its transformation to the nearby Mueller redevelopment. The addition of major grocery stores, restaurants, and big-box shops brought convenience, but the heart of Windsor Park beats in the tales of its long-standing residents and local treasures.
Food enthusiasts, look no further than Paco's Tacos for mouthwatering delights, and the Cuban Sandwich Cafe for an unforgettable experience. Burger lovers can savor classics at Cameron Road's burger havens like Whataburger, Hill-bert's Burgers, and P. Terry's. Just tons of amenities all around the neighborhood.
For hangouts, Nomad offers an easygoing atmosphere and top-tier local beers. Carousel Lounge, with its whimsical carousel bar and circus-themed décor, is a must-visit. If you're in the mood for coffee and conversation, Corona Coffee is the neighborhood's go-to spot. If you want to go up to Muller, there's also Mueller Lake Park that is great for hangouts.
While shopping isn't Windsor Park's claim to fame, you can still uncover unique finds at Tandy Leather and enjoy a treasure hunt at Texas Thrift, all for a good cause. Outdoorsy types can explore Bartholomew District Park, complete with disc golf, a playground, and more. Cap off your day with a movie night at the renowned Blue Starlite drive-in.
Hyde Park - Great for everyone
In the northward vicinity of the University of Texas lies Hyde Park, a neighborhood steeped in historical significance. This district is a daily exploration of history and culture with its array of historic structures. Notable among them are the Elisabet Ney Museum and the distinguished Blue Bonnet Court, where echoes of the past reverberate.
Hyde Park's culinary landscape boasts hidden treasures like Antonelli's Cheese Shop and Vamanos, a Tex-Mex haven. A trip to the former often culminates in leisurely family picnics at the adjacent Shipe Park, and during sweltering summer months, a refreshing plunge in the park's pools. Educational institutions in Hyde Park fall under Austin's independent school district, featuring institutions such as Lee Elementary School and McCallum High School. The community is a mosaic of rich history and contemporary delights, a tribute to Austin's multifaceted charm.
Homes in Hyde Park
Median Home Prices in 2023: $1,350,000
Median Home Sizes: 3,111 sqft
Quick Rating:
Quiet: 8.0
Pedestrian-friendly: 7.8 — Some day-to-day needs are within walking distance
Parks: 7.4 — Moderate amount of park space nearby
Groceries: 8.3 — At least one grocery store within a few minutes’ walk
Elementary Schools: 9.0 — At least one elementary school within a 5-minute walk
High Schools: 8.4 — At least one high school within a 10-minute walk
Overall score: 8.4
Rosedale
Rosedale, a primarily residential enclave, boasts a tapestry of homes harkening back to the bygone decades of the 1930s and 1940s. The neighborhood's official website eloquently characterizes its populace as a delightful amalgamation of young families, solitary professionals, and steadfast original proprietors, each bearing a treasure trove of anecdotes from their time here. For families seeking local diversions, Ramsey Park beckons with its aquatic sanctuary and a smorgasbord of sporting activities, while the meandering trails of the Shoal Creek Greenbelt invite hiking and biking enthusiasts.
When gastronomic cravings arise, the neighborhood unveils a delectable array of Mexican eateries and contemporary Japanese restaurants to satiate your appetite. Rosedale is replete with educational institutions to cater to diverse preferences, with the distinguished Rosedale School occupying a prominent spot in the hearts of many. Notably, this institution extends its arms to nurture children with unique needs, ensuring an exceptional educational journey for all.
Homes in Rosedale
Median Home Prices in 2023: $926,250
Median Home Sizes: 1,760 sqft
Quick Rating:
Quiet: 6.4 - Some noise near by
Pedestrian-friendly: 6.9 — Some day-to-day needs are within walking distance
Parks: 7.4 — Moderate amount of park space nearby
Groceries: 5.5 — At least one grocery store within a few minutes’ walk
Elementary Schools: 8.4 — At least one elementary school within a 10-minute walk
High Schools: 7.3 — At least one high school within a 10-minute walk
Overall score: 7.0