Best Suburbs Near Austin, Texas

With its reputation for live music, outstanding outdoor recreation, and laidback vibe, Austin, Texas has an allure that is drawing many to the area. When you blend its relatively low cost of living, enormous job opportunities and no individual state income tax, you have a trifecta of great reasons to move to Austin.

From college students to tech investors to legislators, the capital of the Lone Star State is a popular choice. Spend your free time exploring the hike and bike trails around Lady Bird Lake or shop for boots and vintage finds along the eclectic Congress Avenue area. Catch a show or attend a sporting event including Longhorn football.

If big city living isn’t your cup of tea, however, consider relocating to one of the 10 top suburbs around Austin. Take a look and discover which one is best for you, while also noticing the 10 safest cities in Texas. 

10. Hutto 

• Population: 29,498
• Median Home Value: $279,800
• Mean Travel Time to Work: 32.9 minutes
• School Ranking: B
• Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 87
• Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 11

A friendly and growing city, Hutto sits about 30 minutes northeast of Austin, making it perfect for commuting. This fast growing suburb has even been named the safest city in the state recently. With low crime rates, good schools and many local amenities to enjoy, Hutto is an excellent place to call home.

Nestled in the heart of Central Texas, Hutto is close enough to the capital for all the perks but far enough to avoid the high-octane hustle. Hutto’s claim to fame? The hippos. Yes, hippos. Legend has it a circus hippo escaped into the town in the early 1900s, and ever since, Hutto has embraced the quirky animal as its mascot. Now, this “Hippo Capital of Texas” is plastered with statues and murals, adding a unique flavor to the city’s identity.

What really sets Hutto apart is its blend of safety, small-town charm, and rapid development. Crime rates here are significantly lower than the national average, making it a safe haven for families and retirees looking for peace of mind. A friendly vibe in a relaxed, close-knit community is a welcome respite.

Hutto ISD is steadily gaining a reputation for strong academic programs, and nearby colleges like Texas State University’s Round Rock campus and Austin Community College offer options for higher education. Benefit from the proximity to Austin’s booming tech and business scene with companies like Dell and Samsung just a short drive away. Enjoy quiet neighborhoods, well-kept parks, and accessible healthcare at Seton Medical Center and St. David’s Round Rock Medical Center nearby.

Recreation is another of Hutto’s strengths. Local parks like Fritz Park offer everything from sports fields to walking trails, while nearby Brushy Creek Trail attracts bikers and nature lovers alike. If you’re into history, the Hutto Co-Op District blends old-school Texan charm with modern retail and dining. The district has become a shopping and entertainment hub, bringing in new restaurants, boutiques, and even an amphitheater for live events. The dining scene in Hutto is diverse and growing. You’ll find Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican fare, and a sprinkling of modern American cuisine.

Sports fans won’t have to travel far to catch a game. With Austin FC just down the road and a plethora of collegiate teams, there’s no shortage of action. Plus, Dell Diamond, home to the Round Rock Express, offers a family-friendly, minor league baseball experience only minutes away. For anyone looking to escape into the outdoors, you’re within reach of state parks like Lake Granger and its expansive recreational areas for fishing, boating, and camping.

Ultimately, Hutto offers the perfect balance of suburban peace and big-city access. Whether it’s the hippos, the growing economy, or the low crime rates, there’s a charm to this place that other Texas towns just can’t replicate. If you’re looking for a place with personality, strong community vibes, and proximity to all the right things, Hutto makes a compelling case.

Looking for your new home? You will find it here.

9. Georgetown

• Population: 71,788
• Median Home Value: $361,700
• Mean Travel Time to Work: 27.8 minutes
• School Ranking: B+
• Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 730
• Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 81

Roughly 25 miles north of Austin is Georgetown, home to the “Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas.” Southwestern University, the oldest university in Texas, has a welcoming presence here. When you stroll down the tree-lined streets and gaze upon the restored Victorian homes, you will see the allure of this Texas city. If you enjoy outdoor activities, you’ll find plenty of mountain bike trails, walking trails and golf courses. 

As part of the greater Austin metropolitan area, Georgetown benefits from being near major urban centers like Austin and Round Rock, but it doesn’t lose its unique identity. Known as the “Red Poppy Capital of Texas,” Georgetown bursts into vibrant bloom each spring, painting the town with fields of red poppies—a charming reflection of the city’s emphasis on preserving its history and natural beauty.

Georgetown is known for its historic downtown, often considered one of the best-preserved in the country. Find yourself enjoying concerts on the square, sipping coffee, shopping or dining at one of the delicious restaurants. From farmers markets to festivals, this is a hub of the community.

Georgetown’s appeal lies in its rich cultural and historical landscape, as well as the safety that makes it attractive to families, single professionals, and retirees alike. Its crime rate is notably lower than the national average, contributing to a sense of security and peace that newcomers quickly embrace.

There’s plenty to do. You can wander through the Williamson Museum to catch a glimpse of local history, or explore the Inner Space Cavern, a limestone cave system that offers a subterranean adventure. Families flock to the San Gabriel River, where parks like Blue Hole and San Gabriel Park offer lush trails, picnicking spots, and swimming areas. Don’t miss a trip to Lake Georgetown for camping, fishing, or a weekend paddleboarding.

Georgetown’s proximity to major employers like Dell, Samsung, and more make job prospects a benefit. Excellent healthcare with St. David’s Georgetown Hospital and several other nearby medical centers ensure the utmost for your family. Schools in the area are part of Georgetown Independent School District, known for strong academics and community involvement. Southwestern University, a private higher education institution, offers a tight-knit collegiate environment.

With a low crime rate, beautiful parks, historic downtown, and a growing arts scene, Georgetown manages to cater to all without losing what makes it special. For someone looking for an alternative to the hustle of Austin or other fast-growing Texas cities, Georgetown is a place to slow down, settle in, and stay a while. Find the home that best suits your lifestyle in Georgetown.

8. Wells Branch

• Population: 13,941
• Median Home Value: $338,000
• Mean Travel Time to Work: 25.2 minutes
• School Ranking: A-
• Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 1,759
• Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 305

Wells Branch, tucked between the bustle of Austin and the charm of Round Rock, is one of those places where you can feel both connected to big-city amenities and removed from their stresses. Located in the heart of Central Texas, Wells Branch sits comfortably near the I-35 corridor, a sweet spot that makes it an ideal launching pad for everything Austin has to offer, without surrendering to the congestion that defines the capital city.

Austin is just 15 minutes south, while Round Rock, with its family-friendly appeal and growing tech sector, is a short drive north. This little slice of Texas has a balance of suburban charm and proximity to urban excitement. Here, people live close to the pulse of a booming tech scene but find serenity in sprawling parks and family-friendly spaces.

Crime rates in Wells Branch are notably lower than the national average, making it a safe haven for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. For those raising children or planning to settle down, safety isn’t a concern you’d lose sleep over.

What’s Wells Branch known for? It’s the green spaces, hands down. Wells Branch itself is practically a neighborhood wrapped around a park, with the Wells Branch MUD offering trails, sports courts, and even a community center. Katherine Fleischer Park is a local gem, where families can spend weekends splashing in the pool or wandering around the lush trails.

Entertainment here doesn’t stop with parks. While Austin might dominate headlines with live music, Wells Branch quietly caters to those who enjoy the quieter side of life but still want easy access to performances, festivals, and the arts. Dining and shopping in nearby The Domain provide upscale experiences just a few minutes away. Tech professionals may enjoy being near Austin’s “Silicon Hills,” home to major employers like Dell, IBM, and Apple. And when it comes to professional sports, Austin FC’s soccer games are just down the road.

Healthcare is top-notch, with St. David’s North Austin Medical Center nearby, ensuring quick access to quality care. Education-wise, Wells Branch is part of the Pflugerville Independent School District, known for its solid schools, while nearby Austin Community College and the University of Texas offer excellent options for higher education.

It’s easy to fall in love with Wells Branch. Safety, green spaces, proximity to the tech world, and connection to Austin’s cultural scene–who could ask for more?

7. Shady Hollow

• Population: 5,300
• Median Home Value: $550,500
• Mean Travel Time to Work: 31.3 minutes
• School Ranking: A
• Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 615
• Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 107

The community of Shady Hollow is located about 10 miles southwest of downtown Austin. It’s part of the Austin school district, good news for families with school-age children. Shady Hollow is close to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, plus numerous parks and outdoor recreational activities.

The perfect suburban enclave, Shady Hollow celebrates a safe setting with crime rates notably lower than both the national and state averages. The local schools are solid and the parks are plentiful. The community offers proximity to lush green spaces like the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center and the Barton Creek Greenbelt.

Shopping and dining in Shady Hollow lean more towards convenience rather than spectacle, but nearby neighborhoods like South Congress (SoCo) in Austin fill that gap with quirky shops, upscale boutiques, and a dizzying array of food trucks and local restaurants. Entertainment runs the gamut from quiet evenings at local coffee shops to the roaring energy of Austin’s live music scene. And when it comes to sports, Austin FC, the city’s professional soccer team, along with University of Texas collegiate sports, provide plenty of action. Shady Hollow residents often find themselves immersed in both worlds—the quiet nights at home and the excitement of a nearby city.

Healthcare here is top-notch, with major employers like St. David’s South Austin Medical Center just a short drive away. Families benefit from reputable colleges like the University of Texas at Austin and St. Edward’s University.

Give Shady Hollow some serious consideration as your next new home locale. It’s hard to beat.

6. Leander

• Population: 62,491
• Median Home Value: $412,000
• Mean Travel Time to Work: 30.4 minutes
• School Ranking: A
• Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 520
• Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 67

Less than 30 miles north of Austin is Leander, one of the state’s fastest-growing cities but a place that still maintains its old town flavor. Its Chamber of Commerce sponsors annual festivals and events that residents of all ages can enjoy. The ever-expanding school system has top marks and crime is low. 

Leander sits at the edge of the Hill Country right in the mix of Williamson County. The MetroRail connects Leander directly to Austin, making it easy for professionals who want suburban quiet but need city access. The well-kept parks, excellent schools, and growing number of shops and restaurants bring life to the area.

Safety? It’s good. Crime rates are consistently lower than the national average, making it a family-friendly place where kids can play outside without much worry. The community is tight-knit, and while it’s not immune to the challenges that come with rapid growth, Leander’s crime rate is comfortably below what you’d see in larger cities.

Nature lovers will appreciate the proximity to some of Texas’ great outdoor attractions like the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge. Then there’s the nearby parks—Benbrook Ranch Park offers everything from disc golf to hiking trails. Leander’s got its share of local spots, like Devine Lake Park, where you can fish, kayak, or just unwind by the water. With an array of inviting courses, golfers love this area.

As for employment, major tech companies in Austin have influenced growth in the area, with healthcare also being a key employer. With its rapid expansion, nearby hospitals and clinics are easily accessible, and larger facilities in Austin ensure that top-tier medical care is never far.

Leander’s schools are another draw, part of the highly rated Leander Independent School District. Outstanding academics and extracurriculars are a serious perk of choosing to live in this suburb. Colleges like Austin Community College and UT Austin are within reach for those continuing their education.

Leander is a city that hasn’t lost its roots in the face of growth. The sense of community remains strong and the pace manageable. Come stake your claim in this jewel of a city. 

5. Pflugerville

• Population: 64,528
• Median Home Value: $321,200
• Mean Travel Time to Work: 27.5 minutes
• School Ranking: A
• Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 829
• Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 64

Pflugerville, located less than 20 miles northeast of Austin, offers a prime spot for those interested in the area’s strong economy. You’ll find a great education system and plenty of amenities, including nearby Lake Pflugerville. The city also has a pop culture connection: Friday Night Lights filmed some football scenes at the local Kuempel Stadium.

Pflugerville is nestled in Central Texas, comfortably situated between two of the state’s heavy hitters, Austin and Round Rock. Just 17 miles north of Austin and only a short drive from Round Rock, this city manages to carve out its own identity amid the larger urban sprawl. Often referred to as “Pville” by locals, Pflugerville has a mix of German heritage and modern suburban development. From its festivals that celebrate its German roots to its burgeoning tech and business industries, Pflugerville has a foot in both the past and the future.

The city is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor spaces. Pfluger Park, a local gem, and Lake Pflugerville offer everything from hiking and biking trails to paddleboarding, making it a haven for nature lovers and fitness enthusiasts. Safety is a notable aspect here, too, with crime rates consistently lower than the national average, giving residents peace of mind.

Families will appreciate Pflugerville’s highly rated schools, parks, and the city’s commitment to community activities. The area’s proximity to Austin opens the door to a robust job market, especially in tech, healthcare, and education. Entertainment here ranges from live music and local breweries to sports. Major employers like Dell, Samsung, and Amazon are close by, providing a wealth of opportunities.

Dining and shopping in Pflugerville cater to all tastes. Cool neighborhoods like the Stone Hill Town Center offer a blend of big-name stores and unique local businesses, while the local food scene offers everything from Texas barbecue to global cuisine. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee at a cozy café or exploring the eclectic shops, Pflugerville makes sure there’s always something new to discover.

For those looking to escape the grind without losing touch with modern conveniences, Pflugerville is a place to watch. Find your new energy-efficient home among Pflugerville’s available new home communities. 

4. Round Rock

• Population: 120,465
• Median Home Value: $337,500
• Mean Travel Time to Work: 25.2 minutes
• School Ranking: A
• Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 2,235
• Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 165

Round Rock, the largest suburb on our list, is home to more than 100,000 people, along with an outstanding school system. You can find plenty of shopping and dining options, plus you can cheer on the Round Rock Express Minor League Baseball team at Dell Diamond. 

Round Rock sits just 20 miles north of Austin. Take advantage of a front-row seat to all the cultural and economic benefits of the state’s capital, while maintaining a unique identity of its own. Known as the “Sports Capital of Texas,” Round Rock boasts an athletic pedigree alongside a rich history, centered around its iconic round rock in Brushy Creek, which served as a landmark for pioneers heading west.

Safety here is a selling point. With a crime rate consistently below the national average, families, single professionals, and retirees find Round Rock a secure place to plant roots. The city’s growth, while rapid, has been carefully managed, ensuring that the influx of new residents doesn’t come at the expense of safety or community spirit.

The highly rated schools, excellent parks, and abundance of kid-friendly activities make Round Rock appealing. The booming tech industry is anchored by Dell Technologies headquartered here. The relaxed lifestyle is enhanced by access to quality healthcare at St. David’s, Seton, and Baylor Scott & White.

Entertainment options are diverse. Sports fans can catch a game at Dell Diamond, home to the Round Rock Express, a Triple-A baseball team, or enjoy local soccer, rugby, and basketball events. Outdoorsy types have an array of parks, including Old Settlers Park, where you’ll find sports fields, fishing spots, and hiking trails.

Shopping and dining? Round Rock won’t disappoint. La Frontera and the Round Rock Premium Outlets are popular spots for retail therapy, and the city’s food scene is a testament to Texas barbecue, Tex-Mex, and an increasing variety of international fare. For a bit of history, you can visit the Round Rock Historic District or stop by the Round Rock Donuts—a legendary local spot known for its Texas-sized treats.

Round Rock manages to offer something for everyone, whether you’re drawn to the job market, the serene parks, or the sense of community that feels more like a small town than a rapidly growing city. It’s a place where old Texas charm meets new Texas ambition. Come find your new home in Round Rock!

3. Brushy Creek

• Population: 22,282
• Median Home Value: $411,500
• Mean Travel Time to Work: 29.3 minutes
• School Ranking: A+
• Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 1,018
• Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 177

About halfway between Round Rock and Cedar Park is the area known as Brushy Creek. Only 20 miles from Austin, it’s perfect for commuters. Technically a part of the sprawling Round Rock area, Brushy Creek is more like a hidden gem than a destination you’d pick out of a map.

Crime rates are notably lower than the national average, and safety is part of the fabric of everyday life, which makes it a great pick for retirees, families, and professionals who are tired of the frenetic pace of larger cities.

Parks like the Brushy Creek Regional Trail are the heartbeat of the community, offering miles of hiking, biking, and spots to picnic or simply breathe in the outdoors. Along the trail, you’ll stumble across playgrounds, sports fields, and even splash pads. For those who enjoy something a little more organized, Round Rock’s famous Dell Diamond, home to minor league baseball, is just a short drive away.

Education is a strong suit, with schools in the Round Rock Independent School District earning high marks, making it a solid choice for families with kids. Healthcare is anchored by major hospitals in Round Rock and Austin, ensuring residents are never far from top-tier medical care. As for jobs, tech and healthcare dominate, with the presence of giants like Dell just around the corner, making it a magnet for professionals looking for a stable, yet laid-back lifestyle.

Brushy Creek is for the person who enjoys the conveniences of city life, but craves the feeling of a place where you can know your neighbors and spend your weekends on a trail, by a creek, or in a park. It’s the kind of place that grows on you quietly, until one day, you realize it’s home. Brushy Creek offers a lifestyle and homes that will elevate your quality of life.

2. Lakeway

• Population: 18,835
• Median Home Value: $636,700
• Mean Travel Time to Work: 31.5 minutes
• School Ranking: A+
• Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 146
• Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 9

Perched on Lake Travis is the majestic city of Lakeway. Tucked away in the rolling Texas Hill Country, Lakeway is a place where life moves at a more deliberate pace, but not without the promise of excitement around every corner. About 25 miles west of Austin, this small city is perfectly positioned to give you the best of both worlds—close enough to dip into Austin’s electric downtown, but far enough to feel like you’ve found a hidden retreat.

Lakeway hugs the shores of Lake Travis, which is what makes it unique. Water sports, boating, and sunsets that burn golden over the lake have become part of the city’s lifeblood. But it’s more than just a scenic backdrop. It’s a community known for safety and low crime rates—far lower than national averages. If you’re looking for peace of mind, this is a place where you don’t need to constantly look over your shoulder.

Families love Lakeway for its excellent schools known for academic rigor and community engagement. It’s the well-maintained golf courses that clinch the deal for many. Enjoy lakefront walks and water recreation to your heart’s content. Parks like Hamilton Greenbelt offer hiking trails and wildlife, while Lakeway City Park gives you a front-row seat to all the action on Lake Travis.

As for dining, relax with views of the Hill Country and Lake Travis. You won’t have to leave Lakeway for shopping, either—small boutique stores and larger shopping centers provide plenty of variety. With quality healthcare and excellent employment options, Lakeway checks off lots of boxes.

In Lakeway, you don’t just choose to live—you choose to stay. Buyers will have a choice of several new construction homes. They range from small to sprawling. From lake activities and tennis courts to tee times on some of the best golf courses, you may end your search in Lakeway.  

1. Cedar Park

• Population: 76,344
• Median Home Value: $279,900
• Mean Travel Time to Work: 27.4 minutes
• School Ranking: A+
• Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 674
• Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 57

Austin’s top suburb is Cedar Park. Only 16 miles from downtown Austin, it’s one of the fastest-growing cities in Texas. This thriving affluent community is a magnet for builders and families. In addition to ample amenities, the city also strives for academic excellence. Cedar Park is home to a robust blend of businesses representing the health care profession, software, biotech, advanced manufacturing and oil exploration industries.

What makes Cedar Park stand out? It’s not just the low crime rates, which are well below the national average. People move here because it feels safe, and it stays safe. Whether you’re raising kids or enjoying a quieter phase of life, the city offers a peace of mind that’s hard to come by.

Cedar Park isn’t just a bedroom community—it’s got a dynamic energy thanks to attractions like the H-E-B Center, home to everything from hockey games (the Texas Stars, AHL) to major concerts and family-friendly events. Families and professionals might find themselves drawn to Cedar Park’s parks—over a thousand acres of them—including the Brushy Creek Lake Park, perfect for hiking, kayaking, or just letting the kids run wild.

When it comes to entertainment, dining, and shopping, Cedar Park doesn’t disappoint. Its local dining scene rivals Austin’s in creativity, if not sheer scale, with plenty of cool, laid-back spots to explore. Then there’s The Parke, a shopping district where boutique stores meet big-name retail, all while staying true to Cedar Park’s laid-back yet upscale vibe. And if you’re looking for a night out, live music and entertainment options spill out of Austin right into Cedar Park, so you’ll never feel short of something to do.

Major employers like National Oilwell Varco, Cedar Park Regional Medical Center, and tech companies spilling over from Austin mean job opportunities are varied and growing. Healthcare is solid too, with Cedar Park Regional Medical Center nearby and Austin’s world-class hospitals just down the road.

Education is another strong point, especially for families. The city is served by the highly rated Leander Independent School District, known for its innovative approach to education. For higher learning, Austin’s colleges—think the University of Texas—are close enough for easy commuting.

Cedar Park offers the best of both worlds: a tight-knit community feel with big-city amenities just a short drive away. It’s that balance, and a sense of security, that makes it a magnet for people looking to carve out a life in Central Texas. You get space, safety, and a blend of nature and culture, all in a city that’s managed to grow without losing itself.  Get ready to make Cedar Park your new home!

NewHomeSource pulled data from the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting Services and the U.S. Census Bureau. In the event exact crime data was unavailable, estimates were used. These factors were entered into an algorithm to calculate a score for each suburb.