The Best Austin Neighborhoods for Every Lifestyle in 2025

Austin’s best neighborhoods include Downtown for walkability (92 Walk Score), Brentwood for families (top-rated AISD schools), East Austin for young professionals (vibrant nightlife and bike access), and Hyde Park for students (historic charm just steps from UT).

We’ve put together a comprehensive list of Austin’s most popular neighborhoods with various lifestyles in mind, so you can choose what matters most to you. Whether you’re moving for school, work, or a new vibe, there’s a perfect Austin neighborhood for everyone.

A Note on Data: When possible, we draw average rents from current listings on Apartment List for apartments in those areas. Click on one of the links to a neighborhoods page to view more listings. Transit scores come from walkscore.com. School, Crime, and Overall Niche.com scores come from Niche.com.

What are the most walkable Austin neighborhoods?

1. Downtown Austin

• Best for: Renters who want luxury high-rises, nightlife, and car-free convenience
• Walk Score: 42
• Bike Score: 54
• Transit Score: 35
• Median 2BR Rent: $4,910
• Crime Grade: D

Downtown is the ultimate answer to “Is Austin walkable?” It offers unbeatable walkability with a 92 Walk Score and premium 2-bedroom rents around $3,670. Everything from office buildings to concert venues is within reach, including The Moody Theater and Stubbs BBQ. You’ll also find art galleries, museums, and high-end shops a short stroll away.

Downtown Austin’s apartments are loaded with amenities (think rooftop pools and in-unit laundry), but they come at a premium. If you're looking to live Downtown on a tighter budget, look at older buildings on the edge of the district for more affordable options without sacrificing location.

2. Old West Austin

• Best for: History lovers and professionals who want walkability with charm
• Walk Score: 45
• Bike Score: 60
• Transit Score: 32
• Median 2BR Rent: $2,900
• Crime Grade: C

Old West Austin, often referred to as Clarksville, balances vintage charm with big city access. It features historic homes, shaded sidewalks, and a peaceful atmosphere, all within walking distance of Lake Austin trails and Downtown entertainment.

Despite being one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city, Old West Austin remains a top choice for renters who want easy access to shops, restaurants, and parks, but without the constant buzz of Downtown.

3. North Loop

• Best for: Students and creatives who love bike-friendly streets and local flavor
• Walk Score: 67
• Bike Score: 93
• Transit Score: 53
• Median 2BR Rent: $2,133
• Crime Grade: C+

With a 92 Bike Score and affordable two-bedroom rents, North Loop is a haven for cyclists and vintage shop hoppers alike. This quirky neighborhood is home to indie bookstores, secondhand boutiques, and dive bars where locals mingle after hours.

It’s a top pick for those who want a little bit of everything—character, convenience, and community—without spending a fortune. While it's not as walkable as Downtown, it’s compact enough for daily errands and nights out without a car.

What are the best Austin neighborhoods for families?

1. Brentwood

• Best for: Families seeking top-tier public schools, a tight-knit neighborhood, and quick city access
• Crime Grade: B+
• Median 2BR Rent: $2,574
• Walk Score: 70
• Bike Score: 83
• Transit Score: 54
• School Ratings:

• Brentwood Elementary – A (GreatSchools 8/10)
• Lamar Middle & McCallum High – A+ magnet programs

Brentwood combines post-war charm with mature trees, small parks, and sidewalk-lined streets—perfect for family strolls or biking. The neighborhood’s real appeal comes from its public school trio (elementary through high school) that consistently ranks among the best in AISD, making it a magnet for school-focused families.

Safety here is strong, earning B+ grades and comparing favorably to many Austin neighborhoods. With Downtown and UT Austin just a 10-minute drive away, Brentwood strikes an ideal balance between suburban peace and urban opportunity, including cafés, community events, and amenities are all conveniently close yet never overwhelming.

2. Tarrytown

• Best for: Upscale families who prioritize safety, lakeside parks, and elite schooling
• Crime Grade: B
• Median 2BR Rent: ~$1,494
• Walk Score: 58
• Bike Score: n/a
• Transit Score: n/a
• School Ratings:

• Casis Elementary – 10/10 GreatSchools
• Access to top private schools (e.g., St. Stephen’s Episcopal)

Tarrytown is one of Austin’s most established lakeside enclaves. Its winding streets under heritage oaks lead to community-run parks, tennis courts, and scenic riverside trails—all just steps from their homes. Whether it’s weekend playdates or peaceful afternoon walks, the area feels like a calm retreat close to downtown.

The combination of elite school zones and an impressive safety profile (the neighborhood ranks 4th out of 82 neighborhoods for safety) makes Tarrytown a top draw for families aiming for a blend of prestige and peace. It's everything a safety-minded family could want without sacrificing access to the city's culture and conveniences.

Allandale

• Best for: Families who want tree-lined streets, strong Austin ISD schools, and solid safety all within 15 minutes of Downtown
• Crime Grade: B–
• Median 2BR Rent: $2,203
• Walk Score: 53
• Bike Score: 74
• Transit Score: 45
• School Ratings:

• Gullett Elementary (AISD – A rating)
• Highland Park Elementary option (A–)
• Lamar Middle & McCallum High (A– to A ratings)

Allandale is a mature North Central Austin neighborhood with vintage ranch homes, large oak canopies, and sidewalks made for bike rides and skateboards. Ranking in the 67th percentile for safety, its violent crime rate is slightly below the U.S. average, while property crime stays close to it, offering families a stable and predictable environment.

The neighborhood’s public-school offerings are a major draw. Gullett Elementary and nearby options like Highland Park are highly rated, and both Lamar Middle and McCallum High are considered top-tier AISD schools. Its central location puts Downtown just 10 to 15 minutes away, with cafes, parks, and community events for a blend of family comfort and city convenience.

What are the best Austin neighborhoods for young adults?

1. East Austin

• Best for: Young creatives who want food, music, and modern apartment living
• Median 2BR Rent: $3,173
• Crime Grade: B-
• Walk Score: 84
• Transit Score: 53
• Bike Score: 85

East Austin is one of the city’s fastest-growing neighborhoods, drawing young professionals with its mix of street art, coffee shops, and cocktail lounges. It’s also home to the legendary Franklin Barbecue and countless global eateries.

Newer apartment buildings and lofts offer easy access to bars, coworking spaces, and public transit. Whether you’re biking along the river or walking to a gallery opening, East Austin delivers energy and personality in spades.

2. South Congress (SoCo)

• Best for: Renters who want iconic nightlife, live music, and vintage flair
• Median 2BR Rent: $1,928
• Crime Grade: C+
• Walk Score: 48
• Transit Score: 53
• Bike Score: 61

South Congress is a hotspot for Austin’s nightlife and cultural scene. Renters here enjoy close proximity to The Continental Club, the Congress Avenue Bridge, and a mix of indie shops and upscale dining.

It’s ideal for young professionals who want to walk to happy hour or brunch, catch a show, and still make it to work on time the next morning. Expect higher rents, but the location is worth it for those prioritizing social life and convenience.

3. The Domain

• Best for: Tech workers who want live-work-play luxury in North Austin
• Median 2BR Rent: $1,344
• Crime Grade: C
• Walk Score: 54
• Transit Score: 45
• Bike Score: 61

The Domain and general North Austin area offers high-end apartments, office spaces, and major retailers all in one spot. Known as Austin’s “Second Downtown,” it’s a favorite among professionals who work in tech or startups based in the nearby corridor.

Everything from Whole Foods to wine bars is just steps away. This Austin neighborhood is clean, safe, and buzzing with activity, especially on weekends. If you’re looking for luxury and walkability north of the city center, this is your spot.

What are the best Austin neighborhoods for students?

1. Hyde Park

• Best for: UT students who want a mix of historic charm and easy campus access
• Median 2BR Rent: $2,450
• Crime Grade: B-
• Walk Score: 78
• Transit Score: 56
• Bike Score: 94

Just north of the University of Texas, Hyde Park attracts students, professors, and young professionals alike. With historic homes, mature trees, and a café on every corner, the neighborhood balances academics with personality.

The strong bike infrastructure makes it easy to commute to campus. Hyde Park and these parts of Austin aren’t exactly low cost, there’s a range of housing from charming duplexes to cozy studio apartments.

2. North Loop

• Best for: Students who want quirky charm, late-night eats, and a bike-friendly lifestyle
• Walk Score: 65
• Bike Score: 92
• Transit Score: 51
• Median 2BR Rent: $2,133
• Crime Grade: B+

Among the best places to live in Austin, North Loop makes the list again as a magnet for students who want more than just a short commute to class. This neighborhood is all about personality—think retro bookstores, vintage furniture shops, and 24-hour diners serving pancakes after midnight study sessions. Its 92 Bike Score makes it easy to get around UT and Central Austin without a car.

Unlike the more polished student areas near campus, North Loop embraces its offbeat vibe. You'll find duplexes, older apartments, and garage apartments tucked behind bungalows, with each with its own character. If you’re the kind of student who values local flavor, a little weirdness, and affordable late-night tacos, North Loop delivers.

3. Cherrywood

• Best for: Grad students and commuters who want proximity without the campus buzz
• Median 2BR Rent: $2,080
• Crime Grade: C+
• Walk Score: 69
• Transit Score: n/a
• Bike Score: n/a

Cherrywood offers a peaceful mix of classic bungalows and new apartments within striking distance of UT Austin. You’ll find a blend of undergrads, grad students, and young professionals renting here.

While quieter than Hyde Park, Cherrywood still has a lively core with scores of cafes, bookstores, and local pubs. It’s perfect for students who want calm study time without being too far from city fun.

Honorable Mentions: Other Top-Rated Austin Neighborhoods for Renters

We also rounded up five more honorable mentions as parts of Austin worth considering.

1. Barton Hills

• Best for: Renters who want outdoor access and quiet without leaving the city
• Walk Score: 36
• Bike Score: 34
• Transit Score: 49
• Median 2BR Rent: $1,974
• Crime Grade: A-

Barton Hills offers a peaceful escape right next to nature. With direct access to Zilker Park, Barton Springs, and Lady Bird Lake, it’s a dream for hikers, paddleboarders, and festival-goers who still want to be near Downtown.

Although it's not highly walkable, residents love the calm atmosphere, tree-lined streets, and below-average rents for such a scenic area. It's a great choice if you prioritize the outdoors over nightlife.

2. Wells Branch

• Best for: Renters seeking suburban pricing with urban perks and parks
• Median 2BR Rent: $1,446
• Crime Grade: A
• Walk Score: n/a
• Transit Score: n/a
• Bike Score: n/a

Wells Branch sits north of the city and attracts renters looking for value and green space. With community parks, trails, and dog-friendly amenities, it's a family-friendly suburb that doesn’t feel far from the action.

Though it's not very walkable, it offers great affordability compared to central Austin. The neighborhood's small-town feel with city access makes it a strong pick for budget-conscious renters.

3. Travis Heights

• Best for: Renters who want a leafy, upscale neighborhood near SoCo
• Median 2BR Rent: $2,412
• Crime Grade: B
• Walk Score: n/a
• Transit Score: n/a
• Bike Score: n/a

Just south of Downtown, Travis Heights offers a refined mix of old Austin and modern convenience. With Blunn Creek Greenbelt and Big Stacy Pool in your backyard, it’s perfect for renters who want nature with a side of nightlife.

The area features classic homes and small apartment buildings under massive oak canopies. You're steps from South Congress, but without the chaos.

4. North Lamar

• Best for: Renters on a budget who want cultural diversity and fast commutes
• Walk Score: 56
• Bike Score: 44
• Transit Score: 49
• Median 2BR Rent: $1,236
• Crime Grade: C

North Lamar is considered one of the best places to live in Austin on a budget, with a 2-bedroom rent hovering around $1,490. It’s known for its international markets, mom-and-pop eateries, and easy access to I-35.

While safety and walkability are concerns in some areas, savvy renters can find well-located, well-lit complexes with excellent value. It's a solid choice for renters prioritizing savings over amenities.

5. South Lamar

• Best for: Renters who want a mix of local nightlife, walkability, and comfort
• Walk Score: 54
• Transit Score: 48
• Bike Score: 66
• Median 2BR Rent: $2,308
• Crime Grade: B

South Lamar blends residential calm with an energetic cultural scene. The area boasts galleries, music venues, and locally-owned bars and restaurants, all within walking or biking distance.

With a safe, low-key vibe and mid-tier rent prices, South Lamar appeals to renters who want to live well without living loud. It’s especially popular with artists, professionals, and longtime Austinites.

How to Choose the Right Austin Neighborhood for You

Austin’s neighborhoods offer something for every kind of renter, whether you’re chasing nightlife, raising a family, or searching for a student-friendly space near campus. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

• Best for Walkability: Downtown Austin and Old West Austin (often called Clarksville) offer the highest Walk Scores and the most car-free convenience.
• Best for Families: Mueller combines great schools, green space, and strong community vibes.
• Best for Young Professionals: East Austin and South Congress (SoCo) provide easy access to restaurants, nightlife, and coworking spaces.
• Best for Students: Hyde Park and Cherrywood are close to UT Austin, with bike-friendly streets and study-friendly quiet.
• Best for Affordability: Wells Branch and North Lamar offer lower-than-average rents with access to parks or quick commutes.

So, take your pick of Austin neighborhoods based on your top priorities. Whether it’s walkability, school quality, nightlife, outdoor access, or budget, you’ll find a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle in Austin.

Ready to start your search? Take our quiz to get matched with the right Austin apartment for you and save 50 hours of searching.

You can also learn more about:

Texas:

• Things to Know Before Moving to Texas
• Cost of Living in Texas
• Best Places to Live in Texas
• Cheapest Places to Live in Texas

Dallas:

• Things to Know Before Moving to Dallas
• Cost of Living in Dallas
• Average Rent in Dallas & Rental Price Trends
• Best Neighborhoods in Dallas

Houston:

• Things to Know Before Moving to Houston
• Cost of Living in Houston
• Average Rent in Houston & Rental Price Trends
• Best Neighborhoods in Houston

San Antonio:

• Best Neighorhoods in San Antonio

FAQs on the Best Neighborhoods in Austin

What is the safest neighborhood in Austin?

Balcones Woods, The Arboretum, and Wells Branch are among the safest neighborhoods in Austin, earning high crime safety grades and offering a suburban feel ideal for families or renters who value peace and quiet.

What are the most walkable areas in Austin?

Downtown Austin, Old West Austin, and South Congress (SoCo) top the list for walkability, with Walk Scores above 80. These neighborhoods offer dense amenities, restaurants, and transit options all within walking distance.

Where do creatives live in Austin?

Creatives tend to flock to East Austin, North Loop, and Cherrywood. These areas are known for their independent bookstores, vintage shops, street art, and lively music and food scenes, making them ideal for artists, musicians, and freelancers.

Is Austin affordable for renters?

Austin is more expensive than the national average, but neighborhoods like Wells Branch and North Lamar offer two-bedroom apartments under $1,600. That makes them ideal for renters sticking to the 30% income rule, where housing shouldn’t exceed one-third of gross monthly income.

How do I choose between living in the city or the suburbs of Austin?

City living offers walkability, nightlife, and shorter commutes—ideal for professionals and students. Suburban areas like Wells Branch and North Austin offer more space, green parks, and lower rent. If you prioritize schools and quiet, suburbs may be a better fit; if you want entertainment and a shorter drive to work, consider areas closer to Downtown.

What neighborhood has the best access to public transit in Austin?

Downtown Austin and South Congress (SoCo) have the best access to Capital Metro routes, with frequent service and high Transit Scores. These neighborhoods are ideal for renters who want to rely less on cars.

What is the average rent in Austin in 2025?

In 2025, the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Austin is around $2,570, according to Apartment List. Prices vary by neighborhood, with luxury areas like Downtown averaging over $3,600 and budget options like North Lamar staying under $1,500.

What’s the cost of living like in Austin compared to other major cities?

Austin is less expensive than New York or San Francisco but more costly than cities like Atlanta or Dallas. Housing is the biggest factor pushing the cost of living above the U.S. average, though food, utilities, and healthcare are relatively manageable.

Is Austin a good city for remote workers?

Yes. Austin has strong internet infrastructure, a growing number of coworking spaces, and plenty of coffee shops and libraries for remote work. Flexible housing options in places like The Domain or Cherrywood also cater well to remote professionals.

How is the traffic in Austin?

Traffic in Austin can be challenging, especially during rush hours on I-35 or MoPac. Neighborhoods like South Lamar, North Austin, and The Domain offer easier access to major highways and shorter commutes to business hubs.

What are the quietest neighborhoods in Austin?

Barton Hills, Travis Heights, and The Arboretum are known for their tranquility. These residential areas feature tree-lined streets, parks, and smaller complexes, making them great for renters looking to avoid city noise.

Where do young professionals live in Austin?

Young professionals often live in East Austin, South Congress, and The Domain. These neighborhoods offer a mix of nightlife, dining, coworking options, and access to transit, with apartments tailored to modern lifestyles.

Which part of Austin is the best?

The best part of Austin depends on what matters most to you. Downtown is ideal for walkability and culture, Mueller is great for families with parks and schools, East Austin suits creatives and foodies, and The Domain is perfect for tech professionals who want live-work-play convenience. Austin’s diversity means there’s a great fit for every lifestyle.