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Austin, Texas — the live music capital of the world — is a city that truly has it all. 

When over 960,000 people choose a Texan city to reside in, you know it’s not just for the Western culture, it’s a desire to tip a cowboy hat in salute, or a craving for some of the best BBQs in the country.

But Austin does offer so much more than these quirks with its laid-back vibe, delicious food scene, and endless outdoor adventures. 

However, with so many amazing local residential spots to choose from, finding the best neighborhoods in Austin for you can be overwhelming. 

Here’s your guide to 10 of the best neighborhoods in the city.

Quick Overview

• Downtown Austin — Best Nightlife Culture
• South Congress — Most Trendy Modern Amenities
• East Austin — Best for Artists
• Hyde Park — Excellent Student Environment
• Barton Hills — Best Outdoor Scene
• Crestview — Most Family-friendly Area
• Bouldin Creek — Most Varied Food Scene
• Triangle State — Best Thriving Real Estate Area 
• North Burnet — Most Tech Concentrated Area
• North Loop — Most Artsy and Vintage Neighborhood

1. Downtown Austin

Exactly where the magic happens! 

Living in Downtown Austin means you’re steps away from world-class restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. The proximity to Rainey Street makes this neighborhood a paradise for nightlife lovers. 

You can easily catch a live show on Sixth Street, enjoy fine dining at a rooftop restaurant, or simply soak in the cityscape. The scenery the Lady Bird Lake here offers is unmatched by other Austin, TX neighborhoods except its close neighbor, South Congress.

Plus, as a densely populated urban area, movers in Austin will tell you that numerous people tend to find great employment opportunities in the hospitality, retail, and tourism sectors.

• Population: 14,081
• Median Household Income: $151,719
• Average Rent: $2,662
• Median House Value: $714,540
• Best For: Young professionals, nightlife lovers and foodies

2. South Congress

Say what you may about South Congress or SoCo, as the locals call it, this neighborhood’s iconic Texas Capitol building makes it a must-visit for any Austin enthusiast. 

Viewings of the Colorado River and Lady Bird Lake add to SoCo’s natural beauty appeal. While the cost of living is on the high end, you get to experience living in a diverse and trendy area.

• Population: 19,222
• Median Household Income: $77,540
• Average Rent: $1,950
• Median House Value: $464,000
• Best For: Shoppers, music lovers, and those who appreciate quirky

3. East Austin

Life in East Austin in the Travis County neighborhood comes with an urban-suburban feel. 

The neighborhood is experiencing a major renaissance. Although once a hidden gem, it’s now a hot spot for creatives and those looking for a more affordable slice of Austin life. Thus, a lot of its residents rent rather than own their homes.

• Population: 5,923
• Median Household Income: $81,986
• Average Rent: $1,821
• Median House Value: $575,000
• Best For: Artists, musicians, and young professionals seeking affordability

4. Hyde Park

If you are looking for good neighborhoods in Austin, you can’t look further than Hyde Park. 

The beautiful homes, shady parks, and excellent schools make it a popular choice for families and professionals. Although living costs are high, there is enough free stuff around like an entry into the museum for history buffs to feast on.

• Population: 6,430
• Median Household Income: $75,972
• Average Rent: $1,495
• Median House Value: $595,000
• Best For: Families, history buffs, and those seeking a quiet environment

5. Barton Hills

In Southern Austin lies a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts — Barton Hills. 

The Barton Creek Greenbelt is where you go beyond Zilker Park to conquer the most rugged of trails in Austin. For festivities, this suburban neighborhood bordered by South Lamar hosts the annual Austin City Limits Music Festival.

• Population: 8,698
• Median Household Income: $105,132
• Average Rent: $2,557
• Median House Value: $717,316
• Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts and families

6. Crestview

Also a Travis County neighborhood, Crestview lies between the bustling Downtown and the quiet Barton Springs area. 

It’s a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. Although real estate prices have declined by over 35%, the average cost of owning a home in this neighborhood is still higher than the national median.

• Population: 6,729
• Median Household Income: $79,799
• Average Rent: $1,450
• Median House Value: $644,300
• Best For: Families and retirees

7. Bouldin Creek

Turning the focus towards the more trendy neighborhoods, you’ll find Bouldin Creek.

Its proximity to South Congress gives residents an edge in growing the local economy. As such, Bouldin Creek is your go-to area for all kinds of street food and numerous shops.

You can even walk the entirety of the neighborhood, saving you money on transportation or car payments. 

• Population: 6,111
• Median Household Income: $82,641
• Average Rent: $1,839
• Median House Value: $930,748
• Best For: Foodies

8. Triangle State

Unarguably one of the best neighborhoods in Austin, Triangle is Austin’s creative heart. 

The area is called so because of its three vibrant areas — Guadalupe Street, West 45th Street, and North Lamar Boulevard.

Moreover, with about 96% of residents here renting, real estate investors have an active market to tap into. 

• Population: 3,276
• Median Household Income: $93,523
• Average Rent: $1,926
• Median House Value: $773,400
• Best For: Artists and families

9. North Burnet

One of the best parts of Austin to live in if you’re passionate about tech and urban living is North Burnet.. 

It’s an iconic area, home to several major tech companies, including the regional offices of Amazon, Apple, and IBM, making it a prime spot for tech professionals.

• Population: 8,978
• Median Household Income: $76,263
• Average Rent: $1,642
• Median House Value: $199,986
• Best For: Tech enthusiasts and young professionals

10. North Loop

While it may be Austin’s underdog, North Loop is quietly growing into a must-visit neighborhood. 

Due to its proximity, it’s also a great option for students attending the University of Texas. 

• Population: 5,164
• Median Household Income: $75,972
• Average Rent: $1,850
• Median House Value: $507,786
• Best For: Students and young professionals

Wrapping Up — Best Neighborhoods in Austin, TX

When you talk about the best neighborhoods in Austin, Downtown pulses with energy, perfect for young professionals and night owls. While SoCo is a trendy haven for shoppers and music lovers, East Austin gets off with a cool, artsy vibe.