Image source: pixabay

 

Although Texas is a relatively affordable state, many people will agree that some of its cities rack up bills — Austin is one such city. 

As a result, many people who desire access to the opportunities and big-city living of Austin opt to live in cities nearby. Among the list of nearby cities, Georgetown and Round Rock make a compelling appeal. 

These two Central Texas cities are just in Williamson County, less than 30 miles from and north of Austin. 

While both cities share many qualities, such as booming opportunities and natural beauty, they differ in a few ways. For prospective residents, these differences can tip the scales in favor of one of the cities. 

So, if you are torn between settling for the suburban city of Georgetown or the more populated Round Rock, let’s help you decide which is better for you to live in.

Cost of Living — The Affordability Showdown

First, which city gives you more bang for your buck? 

Georgetown’s area feels a little more suburban and spacious, with most homes having lots that tend to be larger than those in Round Rock. 

Although the overall cost of living in Georgetown falls 10% below national average — lower than Round Rock — rent prices are slightly higher at $1,637.

But, before you run trying to hire any moving company Round Rock, TX has, simply for its lower average rent price of $1,514, you should know that the median home value in Georgetown is currently $406,300.

On the other hand, Round Rock has a more urban feel, but the overall cost of living is only 8% lower than the national average — it’s still fair, just not a good deal like Georgetown. However, the median home prices are closer to $440,000. 

Compared to National Average	Georgetown, Texas	Round Rock, Texas
Housing	17% lower	11% lower
Utilities	4% lower	9% higher
Groceries	18% lower	15% lower
Transportation	10% lower	20% lower

 

So, if you’re pinching pennies, Georgetown clearly edges out Round Rock in the cost-of-living department.

Healthcare Access and Cost For The Wellness Gurus

Healthcare access in both Georgetown and Round Rock is fairly at par, but healthcare costs and offerings tend to vary.

Here’s an overview of both cities:

	Georgetown, Texas	Round Rock, Texas
Healthcare Average	1% higher than the national average	8% lower than the national average
Doctor’s Visit Cost	$138.50	$126.82
Availability	119 physicians per 100,000 people	119 physicians per 100,000 people
Offerings	St. David’s Georgetown Hospital, which offers a wide range of services but on a smaller scale	Baylor Scott & White Medical Center, a comprehensive hospital offering emergency services to specialized care

 

Following the Money — Job Availability

If you have dreams of landing that dream job, both cities have varying levels of opportunities for your career to take off. 

For instance, Round Rock is a tech and business hub, with companies like Dell Technologies and Emerson Automation Solutions having a strong presence here. 

Also, the city’s closer proximity to Austin allows its residents access to one of the most thriving job markets and major Fortune 500 companies, such as Google, Apple, and IBM. 

Meanwhile, Georgetown has a more local, small-town economy. While it’s growing and perfect for remote workers and commuters to Austin, job opportunities here are more concentrated in healthcare, education, and retail. 

	Georgetown, Texas	Round Rock, Texas
Population	86,507	126,697
Median Household Income	$87,465	$91,888
Unemployment Rate	4.50%	3.40%
Poverty Rate	7.12%	7.69%

 

Note:

In the Georgetown, TX vs Round Rock, TX job market debate, Round Rock is the hands-down winner for job-seekers looking for career growth.

Living Standards and Quality of Life

Georgetown is slower-paced and has a deep appreciation for the finer things in life. 

Conversely, Round Rock has a more youthful energy and lots of entertainment options, shopping, and dining. 

	Georgetown, Texas	Round Rock, Texas
Vibe	Slow-paced, peaceful, with an appreciation for nature and history	Youthful, active, with lots of entertainment and suburban energy
Environment	Quieter streets, spacious parks, and nature spots	More hustle and bustle, suburban but lively
Notable Spots	– Historic Downtown Square – San Gabriel River – Blue Hole Park – Lake Georgetown	– Round Rock Premium Outlets – Dell Diamond – Old Settlers Park – The Williamson Museum
Best For	Those seeking peace, quiet, and a connection with nature	Families and those who enjoy more activity and entertainment
Proximity to Nature	Close to natural spaces, ideal for outdoor relaxation	Fewer nature spots but rich in entertainment options
Overall Feel	Ideal for spreading out and enjoying tranquility	Perfect for those who want a suburban life with big-city energy

 

School Ratings

The school system is a big deal for families. So, between Georgetown, TX, and Round Rock, TX, which city has the edge in education?

Georgetown ISD boasts great schools but tends to be a little more hit-or-miss. Although some schools, like Georgetown High School, Parkside Elementary, and Gateway College Preparatory School, are solid. 

But comparatively, Georgetown does not have the academic reputation that Round Rock does, especially with its school quality rating bettering only 32.4% of all Texas school districts.

Round Rock ISD is well-known for its high-quality schools, with several receiving top marks. Schools like Round Rock High School, Cactus Ranch Elementary, and Chandler Oaks Elementary are consistently ranked among the best in the state.

Note:

If you’re chasing academic excellence, Round Rock delivers — its school district rating is better than 81.3% of all Texas school districts.

Crime Ratings

Both cities are relatively safe, but there are some differences. 

Georgetown has slightly lower crime rates, especially property crime. On the other hand, Round Rock is still very safe, but its crime numbers are higher. 

Afterall, an increased population almost always means more petty crime.

per 1,000 residents	Georgetown Median	Round Rock Median	National Median
Violent Crime	1.54	1.70	4.0
Property Crime	12.18	23.24	20.0

 

Ease of Transportation

In the Georgetown, TX vs Round Rock debate, Round Rock has a well-developed infrastructure. 

For instance, I-35 slices right through the middle of the city, making trips to Austin easier if you excuse the traffic. Plus, you’ll also find more public transportation options here, with CapMetro buses serving the area.

Georgetown is a little more isolated and rural. It’s further north, and while accessing major highways is easy, you might spend more time commuting in the car. Public transport options are a bit more limited, so a car is a must.

• Georgetown’s Average Commute Time: 33 minutes (1 minute more than the national average)
• Round Rock’s Average Commute Time: 31 minutes (1 minute less than the national average)

Conclusion — Georgetown vs. Round Rock

Between Georgetown, TX vs Round Rock, TX, which is truly better to live in? 

It depends on your lifestyle preferences. Round Rock is your winner if you’re looking for a family-friendly, suburban town with many activities, a stellar job market, and top-rated schools. 

But if you’re craving a more relaxed pace, with a focus on outdoor spaces and nature typical of a small-town feel, Georgetown is your new home. It also experiences less crime and is generally more affordable.

So, what’s your pick?