Austin, the capital of Texas, is known for its lively culture, thriving music scene, and booming tech industry. However, the surrounding cities have appealing aspects and unique charm, making them great places to consider calling home. Here are the top 9 cities near Austin, TX, to live in 2024.

The best cities near Austin, TX

  1. Round Rock
  2. Cedar Park
  3. Georgetown
  4. Pflugerville
  5. Leander
  6. Kyle
  7. Hutto
  8. Lakeway
  9. Wells Branch

1. Round Rock, TX

Why Round Rock is a great place to live

Round Rock is home to the Round Rock Express, the Triple-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers, which offers exciting minor-league baseball action at Dell Diamond. Families will appreciate the city’s good school district and the iconic Round Rock Donuts shop, a local favorite since 1926. Shopaholics can indulge at the Round Rock Premium Outlets, which feature over 125 stores.

2. Cedar Park, TX

  • Driving distance from Austin: 20.2 miles
  • Commute time to Austin via car: 26 minutes
  • Population: 77,642
  • Median rent: $1,995, according to July 2023 rent research
  • Best for: Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts
  • Attractions: Brushy Creek Lake Park, Texas Oaks Golf Course, H-E-B Center at Cedar Park

Why Cedar Park is a great place to live

Cedar Park is great for nature lovers, who explore the 90-acre Brushy Creek Lake Park, with its hiking trails, fishing pier, and scenic lake views. Golfers can tee off at the challenging Texas Oaks Golf Course, while the H-E-B Center hosts exciting events like Texas Stars hockey games and big-name concerts.

3. Georgetown, TX

Why Georgetown is a great place to live

Georgetown’s historic downtown square, a designated Cultural District, features charming Victorian architecture, unique shops, and the fascinating Williamson Museum. Adventurers can explore the hidden wonders of the Inner Space Cavern, while wine lovers can sample local wines at Georgetown Winery. Blue Hole Park offers a scenic lagoon for swimming and relaxation.

4. Pflugerville, TX

Why Pflugerville is a great place to live

Pflugerville’s gem is Lake Pflugerville, a 180-acre reservoir perfect for kayaking, fishing, and windsurfing. The city celebrates its German heritage with the annual Deutschen Pfest, featuring live music, carnival rides, and tasty German cuisine. 1849 Park offers a unique playground that resembles a frontier town, complete with a stagecoach and general store facade.

5. Leander, TX

  • Driving distance from Austin: 26.3 miles
  • Commute time to Austin via car: 31 minutes
  • Population: 74,375
  • Median rent: $2,100, according to July 2024 rent research
  • Best for: Foodies and craft beer enthusiasts
  • Attractions: Leander Beer Market, Smooth Village, Devine Lake Park

Why Leander is a great place to live

Leander’s Old Town district is a haven for foodies, with unique restaurants like Smooth Village, which serves gourmet mac and cheese and over 25 smoothie flavors. Craft beer lovers will feel at home at Leander Beer Market, which offers a rotating selection of local and regional brews. Devine Lake Park provides a tranquil setting for picnics and fishing.

6. Kyle, TX

  • Driving distance from Austin: 21.9 miles
  • Commute time to Austin via car: 31 minutes
  • Population: 57,470
  • Median rent: $1,850, according to rent research
  • Best for: Pie lovers and outdoor adventurers
  • Attractions: Texas Pie Company, Lake Kyle, Katherine Anne Porter Literary Center

Why Kyle is a great place to live

Kyle is famous for its delectable pies, and the Texas Pie Company is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. The shop offers various flavors, from classic apples to the unique “Kyle Pie,” featuring pecans, coconuts, and chocolate chips. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy fishing, hiking, and disc golf at Lake Kyle. Literature lovers can explore the Katherine Anne Porter Literary Center, which is dedicated to the life and works of the acclaimed Texas writer.

7. Hutto, TX

  • Driving distance from Austin: 30.2 miles
  • Commute time to Austin via car: 35 minutes
  • Population: 36,655
  • Median rent: $2,050, according to July 2024 rent research
  • Best for: Country music fans and barbecue enthusiasts
  • Attractions: KOKEFEST, Old Town Hutto, Southside Market & Barbeque

Why Hutto is a great place to live

Hutto is home to KOKEFEST, an annual country music festival that attracts thousands of fans nationwide. The city’s historic Old Town district features unique shops and restaurants housed in beautifully restored buildings, while Southside Market & Barbeque serves up some of the best-smoked meats in Texas.

8. Lakeway, TX

Why Lakeway is a Great Place to Live

Lakeway is a golfer’s paradise, with four championship courses at The Hills of Lakeway, offering stunning views of the Texas Hill Country. The Lakeway Resort and Spa provides a luxurious escape with a full-service spa, multiple pools, and upscale dining options. Lakeway City Park features a scenic trail system, a swimming pool, and a wildlife observation area.

9. Wells Branch, TX

Why Wells Branch is a great place to live

Wells Branch is home to one of the most challenging and well-maintained disc golf courses in Central Texas, attracting players from all over the region. The Wells Branch Community Library offers a wide selection of books, programs, and events for all ages, and Katherine Fleischer Park features a playground, a swimming pool, and a historic homestead.

Words by

Zumper

Zumper's team of rental experts provides you with the latest rental tips, trends, and local laws to help you find great apartments and homes across the country.

Find your next place

Get Started

Related content

Annual Rent Report 2024

Zumper’s 2024 Annual Rent Report provides a comprehensive analysis of the past year, drawing on…

Top 6 Neighborhoods to Live in Charlotte, NC in 2024

Find the best neighborhoods to live in Charlotte, NC, including Uptown for young professionals and…

The Top 9 Neighborhoods in San Francisco for Renters (2024)

Searching for the best places to live in San Francisco? Our guide covers 9 top…