Austin, Texas has consistently ranked as one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, attracting new residents with its vibrant music scene, delicious barbecue, and abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities. As a result, the Austin metropolitan area has seen a boom in new housing developments, including a number of master-planned communities.
If you're considering a move to Austin and are interested in finding the perfect neighborhood, this list of the top 10 master-planned communities in the Austin metropolitan area is a great place to start!
West Lake Hills
Located just west of downtown Austin, West Lake Hills is a charming and affluent suburb that is known for its high-quality schools and beautiful natural surroundings. Nestled in the rolling hills on the edge of the Texas Hill Country, West Lake Hills offers residents stunning views and easy access to outdoor recreation, golf courses, and swimming holes.
One of the most well-known attractions in West Lake Hills is the Barton Creek Greenbelt, an extensive hiking and biking trail that winds through the area. This 809-acre park is home to a wide range of wildlife, and visitors can explore caves and rock formations along the way. There are also multiple parks and swimming holes scattered throughout the area, allowing for greater enjoyment of the scenic surroundings.
In addition to its natural beauty, West Lake Hills is also home to a number of amenities and conveniences. The community boasts a number of high-end shops and restaurants, as well as a thriving medical district. West Lake Hills is also home to a number of top-rated schools, including Eanes Elementary School and Westlake High School, which are consistently ranked among the best in the state. Overall, West Lake Hills is a great option for families looking for a luxurious and convenient place to call home.
Steiner Ranch
Steiner Ranch is a large master-planned community located in northwest Austin, just a short drive from the city's bustling downtown area. The community is situated on the banks of Lake Austin and is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, with many homes offering stunning views of the lake or the surrounding Hill Country.
In addition to its gorgeous location, Steiner Ranch also offers a wide range of amenities and conveniences for residents. The community has its own retail and dining centers, as well as a number of parks and green spaces. There are also several top-rated schools located within the Steiner Ranch community, including River Ridge Elementary School and Vandegrift High School.
One of the most popular attractions at Steiner Ranch is the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge, a 2,024-acre preserve that is home to numerous species of birds and other wildlife. The refuge includes several hiking trails as well as observation points that offer unparalleled views of the rolling hills and nearby Lake Austin.
Overall, Steiner Ranch is a great option for families looking for a peaceful and upscale community in the Austin area.
Circle C Ranch
Circle C Ranch is located in southwest Austin, just a short drive from the city's downtown area. This community is known for its wide range of housing options, from upscale single-family homes to more affordable townhomes and apartments.
Circle C Ranch is also home to a number of conveniences, including shopping centers, restaurants, parks, and attractions. The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, a botanical garden that covers over 300 acres and has over 6,000 species of native wildflowers is located nearby. Its gardens are open to the public daily, making it a favorite destination for Circle C Ranch residents.
One of the standout features of Circle C Ranch is its excellent school district. The community is served by the highly regarded Austin Independent School District and is home to several top-rated schools, including Kiker Elementary School and Bowie High School. Overall, Circle C Ranch is a great option for families looking for a well-planned and convenient community in the Austin area.
The Hills of Lakeway
The Hills of Lakeway community is located in Austin's western suburb of Lakeway. This luxurious area boasts views of the Texas Hill Country. Residents of the Hills of Lakeway enjoy visiting the nearby Hill Country Galleria, a shopping and entertainment complex that offers an impressive array of stores, restaurants, and other attractions. Other local attractions include The Hills Clubhouse at Lakeway, which offers swimming pools and tennis courts.
For families looking for excellence in education, The Hills of Lakeway has some of the top-rated schools in Austin, including Lake Travis Elementary School and Hudson Bend Middle School. With its stunning scenery, amenities, and education system, The Hills of Lakeway provides an incomparable lifestyle that can’t be found in many other Austin suburbs.
Avery Ranch
Avery Ranch is in the northwest region of Austin, Texas. Situated in the suburb of Cedar Park, it is known for its picturesque Hill Country setting and proximity to the city. Avery Ranch is located near several major roads, including Ronald Reagan Boulevard and State Highway 183, providing easy access to the rest of Austin and the surrounding areas.
Avery Ranch's residents enjoy the community's many amenities, such as its championship golf course, multiple pools, playgrounds, fishing pond, and adventure park with zip lines and other exciting activities. The neighborhood is also convenient to nearby business parks and shopping centers, making it a great place to live for those who commute or simply want easy access to city life.
In terms of education, Avery Ranch is served by the highly-rated Round Rock Independent School District. The community is home to several top-rated schools, including Patsy Sommer Elementary School and Pearson Ranch Middle School, both of which have received high marks for their academic programs and student performance.
Teravista
Teravista is an up-and-coming community located in Northwest Austin. It offers excellent views of the rolling hills and its amenities include miles of running trails, top-notch shopping, expansive dining options, and so much more.
Residents of Teravista love the community's recreation center, which offers a wide range of activities such as basketball courts, an indoor pool, and even bowling lanes. There is also the interactive Rabbit Hill Splash Pad and multiple playgrounds for the kids to enjoy. The community is also close to Cedar Park Center, providing easy access to shopping, entertainment, and dining.
Additionally, Teravista is rated among the best school districts in Austin with the acclaimed Teravista Elementary School and Hopewell Middle School. With its scenic views and outstanding amenities, Terrvista provides a great place for families to live and grow in the Austin Metro area.
The Enclave at Alamo Ranch
The Enclave at Alamo Ranch is the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of Austin living. From its swimming pools and sports courts to its miles of running trails and top-notch shopping and dining options, this community has something for everyone. Residents also enjoy easy access to nearby attractions and entertainment, such as SeaWorld San Antonio, Morgan's Wonderland amusement park, and Six Flags Fiesta Texas.
With plenty of outdoor activities available nearby like hiking, biking, or fishing in Lady Bird Lake, The Enclave at Alamo Ranch is the perfect spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life while still being close enough to take advantage of all that Austin has to offer. And for those looking for top-rated schools, the Enclave at Alamo Ranch features some of the best, including Cibolo Green Elementary School and Driscoll Middle School.
With its stunning scenery and amenities, The Enclave at Alamo Ranch provides an amazing Austin community for all ages to live, work, and play.
Stone Hill Farms
Stone Hill Farms is a vibrant community located in Northwest Austin. Featuring lush rolling hills, breathtaking views of the Hill Country, and an abundance of amenities including swimming pools, sports courts, playgrounds, and trails for running and biking, Stone Hill Farms is a great place to call home.
One attraction that Stone Hill Farms community members love is the proximity to Lake Travis, one of the most popular lakes in Texas. With easy access to swimming, fishing, and boating activities, Lake Travis is a great spot for families and friends to spend quality time together. The lake also provides great views of the Hill Country and downtown Austin, making it one of the most desirable spots in the area!
In terms of education, Stone Hill Farms is served by the renowned Leander Independent School District. With its scenic beauty, excellent amenities, and great educational opportunities, Stone Hill Farms provides a wonderful environment to live and thrive in the Austin area.
Four Seasons Farm
Four Seasons Farm is a charming neighborhood located in the heart of Austin. It features picturesque homes and lush landscaping.
Locals love the convenient access to downtown Austin, with its vibrant cultural centers, exciting entertainment venues, and diversity of culinary options. Four Seasons Farm is also within close proximity of fun attractions such as Zilker Park and Barton Springs Pool, making it an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy concerts, festivals, and nature hikes. With great access to shopping and dining options, Four Seasons Farm offers something for everyone in the family!
This lovely Austin community is served by the Austin ISD and boasts top-rated elementary, middle, and high schools such as Anderson High School and Hill Elementary School. With its great mix of outdoor activities, shopping options, restaurants, and highly rated schools, Four Seasons Farm provides the perfect location to call home.
Conclusion
Austin is home to some of the most beautiful master-planned communities in Texas. From the gorgeous lake views of Steiner Ranch to the rolling hills of Stone Hill Farms, these communities offer a unique variety of amenities and outstanding educational opportunities. Whether you are looking for a cozy neighborhood with access to the best schools or a modern community with plenty of shopping opportunities, these Austin communities have it all.
If you’re still unsure which one is the best fit for you and your family, don’t worry! Contact WIR today and we’ll help you discover the perfect location to call home. With our expertise and knowledge of the Austin area, we can make sure that you find a community that meets all of your needs.