Central Austin Neighborhoods
Central Austin's most desirable neighborhoods each have a distinct personality, price point, and lifestyle. Choosing between them isn't just a real estate decision — it's a decision about how you want to live. Here's what Leslie tells buyers who ask her: 'Which neighborhood should I choose?'
| Neighborhood | Price Range | School Dist. | Best For | Vibe | Lots |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tarrytown | $2M–$8M+ | AISD | Families, established buyers | Historic, gracious, walkable | Large |
| Clarksville | $1.5M–$4M | AISD | Couples, creatives, urbanists | Artsy, walkable, eclectic | Smaller |
| Zilker / Barton Hills | $1.5M–$4M | AISD | Outdoor lifestyle buyers | Active, laid-back, natural | Medium |
| Westlake | $2M–$10M+ | Eanes ISD | Families w/ school focus | Private, spacious, polished | Large+ |
| Barton Creek | $2.5M–$8M+ | AISD / Eanes | Privacy seekers, golfers | Gated, serene, Hill Country | Estate |
| Downtown Austin | $800K–$5M+ | AISD | Lock-and-leave, urban pros | Urban, vibrant, high-rise | N/A |
Austin's crown jewel
Tarrytown is Central Austin's crown jewel — a neighborhood of wide, tree-lined streets, stately homes, and a community character that has survived decades of Austin's rapid change. Streets like Wooldridge, Scenic, and Westover are among the most coveted addresses in all of Texas. Tarrytown homes range from historic crafstman bungalows to contemporary architectural estates, often on lots of 10,000 square feet or more.
Tarrytown sits within AISD, with Casis Elementary serving the neighborhood — one of the most requested elementary school assignments in the district. The area is walkable to Mozart's Coffee, Lake Austin Boulevard restaurants, and the Tarrytown HEB. It is 10 minutes from Downtown Austin. Who it's ideal for: Established families, buyers who value history and neighborhood character, those who want walkability without sacrificing lot size.
Austin's oldest neighborhoods
Clarksville is one of Austin's oldest neighborhoods — a historically significant community that has evolved into one of the city's most desirable urban enclaves. Bordered by West 6th Street and the Deep Eddy area, Clarksville is defined by its walkability, its eclectic mix of architecture, and its proximity to Austin's best restaurants and coffee shops.
Homes in Clarksville range from lovingly restored Victorians and Craftsmans to sleek new construction that commands premium prices for the combination of lot size (rare in this neighborhood), design, and location. Lots are typically smaller than Tarrytown, but the energy of the neighborhood is unlike anything else in Austin.
Who it's ideal for: Buyers who want an urban, walkable lifestyle with luxury finishes. Creative and entrepreneurial professionals. Couples without school-age children or those whose school situation is already solved.
Austin's outdoor lifestyle
The 78704 zip code — encompassing Zilker, Barton Hills, Bouldin Creek, and Travis Heights — is where Austin's outdoor lifestyle meets genuine neighborhood character. Barton Springs Pool, the Greenbelt, and miles of trails are steps away. The South Congress and South Lamar commercial corridors provide some of Austin's best dining, retail, and live music.
The luxury segment of this area has grown significantly in the last decade, with contemporary new construction replacing smaller homes on larger lots. Buyers in this area prioritize lifestyle, walkability, and access over prestige or school district.
Who it's ideal for: Outdoor enthusiasts, buyers who want Austin's local culture woven into their daily life, remote workers who want the best of Austin's amenities within walking distance.
Synonymous with Austin luxury
Westlake is synonymous with Austin luxury. Nestled in the rolling hills west of the city, West Lake Hills and the broader Westlake area are defined by large lots, stunning Hill Country views, gated communities, and the Eanes Independent School District — consistently one of the top-rated districts in Texas and the primary draw for families moving into this corridor.
Homes in Westlake range from 3,000-square-foot updated traditionals to 10,000+ square foot estates with guest houses, pools, sport courts, and panoramic views. The Westlake Country Club and Barton Creek Country Club serve the community's social and recreational needs.
Who it's ideal for: Families prioritizing top-tier public schools, buyers seeking larger lots and more
privacy than Central Austin offers, those who want the feel of a private retreat within 15 minutes of
Downtown Austin.