10 Most Affordable Suburbs Near Austin, Texas

Finding an affordable place to live in Austin, Texas, can be tricky if you're operating within a budget. But there is still hope! We've compiled a list of the ten most economical suburbs near Austin that provide fantastic amenities as well as the benefits of being close to the city. We used the U.S. Census Bureau's median home value estimates (2017-2021) to assess the affordability level of each location, so please join us as we dive into Austin's most affordable suburbs.

1. Lockhart, TX

Homes for Sale Around Lockhart, TX 

Median Home Value: $171,300

Lockhart, Texas, is a charming town just 30 miles from Austin. It's known for its small-town appeal and a strong sense of community. From low housing costs to easy access to all that Austin has to offer, this area is an ideal place for those seeking a more budget-friendly option in the region.

Locals love Black’s Barbecue, a local favorite for original Texas BBQ; Birdie House, a historic home that offers comfortable lodging, delicious meals, and amazing hospitality; and Lockhart State Park, which is just a short drive away. It offers hiking trails, bird watching, and fishing opportunities.

The town of Lockhart is also known for its excellent educational opportunities. The schools in this community are highly rated, with an average school district rating of 8 out of 10. Both public and private schools provide students with various learning styles, from hands-on to traditional classroom teaching.

Lockhart may be the perfect place for you if you're looking for a place with small-town charm and easy access to Austin's big-city amenities.

There is a huge variety of homes for sale in San Marcos, from condominiums and two-story townhomes to single-family houses. The prices start below $250K with monthly rental rates often reaching around $450 per month.

2. San Marcos, TX

Homes for Sale Around San Marcos, TX

Median Home Value: $201,200

San Marcos, Texas, is a vibrant city 30 miles from Austin. Known for its outdoor recreational opportunities and proximity to nature, it's the perfect place for anyone seeking an escape to suburban life.

Locals love that San Marcos provides easy access to great shopping and eateries, and entertainment options like the Bobcat Stadium and the San Marcos River. There are also numerous parks in the area where visitors can explore nature or picnic on the banks of one of the many rivers.

The standout natural attraction in this area is Aquarena Springs, which features a 3-acre spring-fed lake surrounded by woodlands and old-growth oak trees.

San Marcos offers a variety of educational opportunities for students to explore. From public schools to private schools, both options are highly rated, with an average school district rating of 8 out of 10. The San Marcos Consolidated Independent School District (SMCISD) operates numerous elementary, middle, and high schools emphasizing hands-on learning through STEM classes and extracurricular activities such as robotics clubs.

Clearly, San Marcos has much to offer its residents in addition to its lower cost of living.

3. Kyle, TX

Homes for Sale Around Kyle, TX

Median Home Value: $220,100

Kyle, Texas, is a growing community just 25 miles from Austin. It's known for its excellent schools and quality of life. The city is full of attractions, like Steeplechase Park’s disc golf course; the Brick and Mortar District, a collection of locally owned shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues; and Gregg-Clarke Park, which offers athletic fields and playgrounds for all ages.

Locals love the peaceful atmosphere; nearby golf courses; and shopping, dining, and entertainment options at the nearby Hays and Plum Creek Shopping Centers.

The city's excellent schools have garnered accolades from the Texas Education Agency, with an excellent school district rating of 8.8 out of 10. With public schools, private institutions, and homeschooling opions, the city provides various educational opportunities that can prepare students for success inside and outside the classroom.

Kyle is also near many colleges, including Texas State University, University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, and Southwestern University. With so much to offer, it’s obvious why people are choosing Kyle for suburban living.

4. Bastrop, TX

Homes for Sale Around Bastrop, TX

Median Home Value: $223,100

Located 30 miles from Austin, the town of Bastrop is known for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. From lush green hills to numerous nearby lakes and rivers, this peaceful little town offers a perfect combination of outdoor recreation and small-town charm.

Locals love kayaking on the Colorado River, the downtown historic district, numerous wineries, and its easy access to Austin via US-290.

One of Bastrop's main attractions is Bastrop State Park which features acres of trails, cliffs, canyons, riverbanks\, and campsites, all of which offer breathtaking views of nature at its finest.

Bastrop is also known for its quality education, with an average school district rating of 8.3 out of 10. The public school systems provide top-notch instruction and innovative programs to challenge students at every level. Public schools in the area are members of the Bastrop Independent School District (BISD), which is committed to helping students succeed academically and socially.

Overall, Bastrop is a great place for families looking for an affordable, quality lifestyle and education near Austin.

5. Hutto, TX

Homes for Sale Around Hutto, TX

Median Home Value: $226,900

Hutto, Texas, located a mere 20 miles from Austin, is known for its small-town charm and close-knit community. Nicknamed "The Hippo Capital of Texas" because of the city's official mascot, Hutto features plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities and dining options.

Popular local attractions include the Downtown Commercial Historic District; Hutto Community Park with its basketball court, pavilion, walking trails, and playgrounds; and proximity to Round Rock Express baseball games at Dell Diamond.

The city also offers easy access to the Brushy Creek Amphitheatre, which is an open-air venue where you can enjoy a variety of musical and theatrical performances. Hutto is also just a short drive from Austin and provides easy access to the city's great shopping, entertainment, and nightlife.

Hutto is also known for its high-quality education, evidenced by its school district rating of 8.5 out of 10. The public schools are part of the Hutto Independent School District (HISD), providing excellent instruction with an emphasis on core academic subjects and fine arts, physical education, and technology classes.

With its pleasant small-town atmosphere, access to great schools and outdoor activities, and proximity to the big city, Hutto has a lot to offer.

6. Liberty Hill, TX

Homes for Sale Around Liberty Hill, TX

Median Home Value: $241,900

Located just north of Austin, Liberty Hill is a small town with enormous potential. With its proximity to the city and its affordable median home value,  this is one place you should definitely consider calling home.

This growing community offers excellent amenities and recreational activities like Wetzel Park, which features a splash pad for the littles; the Liberty Hill public library; the San Gabriel River Brewery, and multiple shopping centers with locally-owned stores and eateries.

Enjoy outdoor activities in this beautiful place while still having all the conveniences of being close to a major city. The landscape here varies from lush green wooded areas to dry, rolling hills, and there are plenty of places to explore and enjoy nature.

Liberty Hill is also an excellent place for learning, with an average school district rating of 8.4 out of 10. Liberty Hill Independent School District (LHISD) provides excellent instruction in core academic subjects as well as fine arts, physical education, and technology classes to give students the best education possible.

If you are looking for an affordable small-town atmosphere close to a major city, Liberty Hill is an excellent option.

7. Pflugerville, TX

Homes for Sale Around Pflugerville, TX

Median Home Value: $273,400

Pflugerville is quickly becoming one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in Central Texas. This family-friendly community offers plenty of recreational activities like fishing and kayaking at Lake Pflugerville or art classes at Heritage House Museum.

Take your pick from multiple shopping centers and eateries that cater to all tastes, visit the historic downtown, or catch a live band at Hanovers Draught House.

Additionally, you can enjoy the Spirit of Texas Independent Distillery, which was founded by a Pflugerville native and features hand-crafted small-batch premium spirits.

The town of Pflugerville is also well known for its quality education, with an average school district rating of 8.7 out of 10. The public schools are part of the Pflugerville Independent School District (PISD), offering excellent instruction with an emphasis on core academic subjects as well as fine arts, physical education, and technology classes.

Whether you're looking for convenient access to Austin or peaceful small-town vibes close by, Pflugerville has it all!

8. Round Rock, TX

Homes for Sale Around Round Rock, TX

Median Home Value: $281,500

Round Rock is the perfect place to be if you’re looking for an affordable and vibrant community to call home. Just 15 miles from Austin, this charming city is the perfect balance between small-town charm and big-city amenities.

This family-friendly suburb has plenty of amenities and recreational activities like the Dell Diamond baseball park, Old Settlers Park with its lake and wide range of activities, and the Round Rock public library.

Discover all that this fabulous city offers – explore Round Rock today!

9. Wells Branch, TX

Homes for Sale Around Wells Branch, TX

Median Home Value: $292,300

Wells Branch is a unique community located just north of Austin in Central Texas. This lively neighborhood offers families a variety of amenities and recreational activities.

Locals love the scenic trail rides and kayaking on Brushy Creek; their proximity to the city (just 12 miles from downtown Austin); and Old Settlers Park, with its lake and wide range of activities for all ages.

For a fun night out, visit some charming local businesses in Wells Branch, such as the Crawfish Shack and Oyster Bar or Spinner’s Bar and Grill, for dinner. Or explore one of the area's attractions like Inner Space Cavern – an underground cave filled with geological wonders and located just 10 miles away.

Wells Branch residents attend school in the Round Rock Independent School District (RRISD), with a district rating of 9.2 out of 10. The RRISD provides students with excellent instruction in core academic subjects as well as fine arts, physical education, and technology classes.

Come experience all that Wells Branch offers – you won't be disappointed!

10. Georgetown, TX

Homes for Sale Around Georgetown, TX

Median Home Value: $304,000

Georgetown is a quiet suburb 25 miles north of Austin in Central Texas. The landscape is beautiful, with rolling hills and lush greenery.

Residents of this area adore the plentiful natural beauty it offers, including Blue Hole and Russell Park; its close proximity to downtown Austin; and a variety of local eateries like The Great Escape and Irene's Continental Cuisine.

This town offers plenty of amenities and recreational activities, including the San Gabriel Park,  Blue Hole Park; a historic walking tour of downtown Georgetown; and plenty of shopping and dining options. And don't miss out on checking out some unique local businesses such as Lark & Owl Booksellers.

Georgetown has an average school district rating of 9.1 out of 10 and is known for its renowned education system. Two separate school districts serve the city -- Round Rock Independent School District and Georgetown Independent School District (GISD). GISD provides seven elementary schools, three middle schools, and two high schools, all of which are highly rated for their academic programs and facilities.

With excellent amenities and educational opportunities, it's no wonder why so many families are choosing this Texas town as their home. Explore Georgetown and fall in love with what you find – visit today!

Concluding thoughts

From bustling Round Rock to serene Georgetown, the suburbs of Austin offer a variety of affordable and family-friendly neighborhoods. And whether you're looking for action-packed fun or peaceful small-town vibes, Watters International Realty would be thrilled to help you find your ideal home. Contact us today, and we will be happy to help you make your move to the Austin area.