Discover the Best Suburbs in Austin, Texas, for New Construction Homes

Aerial view of Round Rock at sunset, one of the best suburbs of Austin, Texas
Aerial view of Round Rock at sunset, one of the best suburbs of Austin, Texas

If you’re searching for the best suburbs in Austin, Texas, look no further! This booming city continues to grow and is a hot spot for homeowners. Check out our list of the best Austin suburbs to live in, with 20+ new construction communities from Pulte® to choose from and call home.

Summary:

  • Best Suburbs in Austin, TX
  • Which Austin Neighborhood Is Right for You?
  • New Construction Homes in Austin, TX, Suburbs
  • Austin Neighborhoods Conclusion

 

Best Suburbs in Austin, TX

The best suburbs of Austin, TX, have a wonderful variety of lovely and unique neighborhoods, from more established areas to up-and-coming spots. There's something for just about everyone here, making it a homebuyer's dream. Our list of the best Austin, Texas, suburbs offers everything you could want in a community, plus the opportunity to build your dream home. Let’s explore these top Austin suburbs.
 
 

Leander

Leander is a popular suburb tucked away northwest of the city. Though abuzz with growth, it maintains a lovely down-home charm, making it one of the best suburbs near Austin, TX. Plus, there's no shortage of outdoor activities and spots for nature lovers. Enjoy a picnic at the serene Devine Lake Park, schedule some tee time at Crystal Falls Golf Course, or observe wildlife in action at the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge.

Pros

  • Tons of parks and recreational areas
  • Quality schools within the Leander Independent School District
  • Regular community events like the Old Town Street Festival
  • Numerous housing options, from cozy single-family homes to modern developments
  • Lower cost of living compared to the national average per Payscale® as of 2024

Cons

  • Potentially longer commutes to Austin, especially during rush hour
  • Limited public transit options
  • Hot, humid summer months, like much of Texas
  • Less nightlife and entertainment options than in the city

 

Round Rock

Once a sleepy little town, Round Rock has blossomed in recent years, becoming one of the biggest suburbs of Austin. Locals love cheering on their minor league baseball team, the Round Rock Express, at the Dell Diamond stadium, where the atmosphere is always electric. The Round Rock Premium Outlets are a shopper's paradise, with all kinds of deals to discover. And there are plenty of green spaces to explore, whether you're into hiking, biking, or just lounging around with a good book. 

Pros

  • Lots of exciting activities around town due to the suburb’s recent growth
  • Quality schools in the Round Rock Independent School District
  • Outdoor fun galore with parks scattered around the city
  • Not a very competitive housing market, according to Redfin® in March 2024 

Cons

  • Traffic congestion, especially during rush hour
  • Limited public transportation
  • Some concern over the amount of sprawl and development
  • Nightlife and high-end shopping options require a trip to the city

 

Georgetown

Georgetown is a sweet spot north of Austin. Entering Georgetown Square is like stepping back in time with its Victorian-era buildings. There's always something cool happening there, whether from a local market or neighborhood potluck to a festival celebrating everything from art to BBQ. It's also home to Blue Hole Park, a hidden gem along the San Gabriel River, perfect for a lazy day of swimming and picnicking. And, you've got plenty of options for housing, from historic styles to new construction homes in Georgetown, TX. 

Pros

  • Old-world charm with beautiful Victorian architecture and a downtown square straight out of a postcard
  • Year-round events and activities throughout the suburb
  • Home to 60 quality schools, including public and private options
  • Not a very competitive housing market, according to Redfin in March 2024
  • Multiple housing options, from historic homes to modern neighborhoods 

Cons

  • Potentially long commutes, especially into Austin
  • Limited public transportation
  • Hot, humid summers
  • Few nightlife options

People swim in the lagoon at Blue Hole Park in Georgetown, one of the best suburbs in Austin, TX
People swim in the lagoon at Blue Hole Park in Georgetown, one of the best suburbs in Austin, TX

Kyle

Just south of Austin is Kyle, a town locals love for its outdoor scene. Whether strolling around Gregg-Clarke Park, fishing at Lake Kyle, or hitting the links at Plum Creek Golf Course, there's lots to enjoy under the Texas sun. Kyle’s historic downtown area offers a quaint and charming environment with locally owned shops, boutiques, and eateries, making it a great spot to explore and support small businesses. One of the best places to live outside of Austin, Texas, you’ll find housing options to suit every taste and budget, from cozy single-family homes to more modern designs. 

Pros

  • Plenty of parks and outdoor recreational opportunities
  • Proximity to Austin and its dining, nightlife, and activities
  • Several annual events, such as the Kyle Fair and Kyle Market Days
  • Numerous housing options
  • Offers a small-town, community-oriented atmosphere despite its growth 

Cons

  • Triple-digit hot summers
  • Growing pains, such as increased traffic and development
  • Limited nightlife
  • A somewhat competitive housing market in March 2024, per Redfin
  • Schools slightly lower-ranked than other Austin suburbs, per GreatSchools® in 2024

 

Dripping Springs

Located southwest of Austin, Dripping Springs is known for its scenery and proximity to the Texas Hill Country. It’s home to several notable attractions, including the Hamilton Pool Preserve, a natural swimming hole, and the iconic Mercer Street Dance Hall, known for its live music and dance events. Dripping Springs has a strong sense of community with a thriving arts scene, farmers markets, and local festivals like the Dripping Springs Founders Day Festival, making it one of the best suburbs in Austin. Here, you’ll find a mix of housing, ranging from ranch-style homes on acreage to modern subdivisions. A fun fact about Dripping Springs is that it’s also known as the "Wedding Capital of Texas" due to its abundance of picturesque wedding venues and scenic backdrops. Couples flock to the area to tie the knot in romantic settings like vineyards, ranches, and historic estates. 

Pros

  • An outdoor paradise for hiking, swimming, and exploring among natural wonders
  • Numerous breweries, distilleries, and wineries in the area
  • Not a very competitive housing market, according to Redfin in March 2024
  • Mercer Street, a charming downtown hub of shops and restaurants for casual date nights and leisurely strolls
  • Minimal light pollution, perfect for stargazing at night 

Cons

  • A lack of extensive public transportation options
  • Potentially requires travel to other areas for some amenities and services
  • Occasionally large crowds, congestion, and limited access at popular attractions, especially during peak seasons
  • Less proximity to major employers, potentially requiring more commuting for work
  • A limited number of schools than in other Austin suburbs

 

Cedar Park

Originally a rural area, Cedar Park has transformed into a busy suburb with rapid residential and commercial development. Cedar Park is home to the H-E-B® Center at Cedar Park, which hosts concerts, sporting events, and more. Nearby, residents can enjoy hiking and boating at Lake Travis. Explore our new construction homes in Cedar Park, TX, close to major employers and entertainment hubs. 

Pros

  • Over 60 quality schools in the Leander Independent School District
  • Tons of amenities, including parks, playgrounds, and recreational facilities
  • Easy access to major highways, shopping centers, and entertainment venues
  • Hosts regular events and festivals
  • Lower cost of living than the national average per Payscale in 2024 

Cons

  • Traffic congestion, especially during rush hours
  • Limited public transit options
  • A somewhat competitive housing market, according to Redfin in March 2024
  • Hot summers with high temperatures
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options

 

Downtown shops near new construction homes in Georgetown, TX
Downtown shops near new construction homes in Georgetown, TX

Which Austin Suburb Is Right for You?

Choosing the best suburb to live in Austin, Texas, is a big decision, especially with so many fantastic options. But everyone's journey is unique, and regardless of whether you have a growing household, are an empty nester, or are focused on career growth, there's a special corner of Austin waiting to welcome you home.

 

Best Austin Suburbs for Young Professionals

Several suburbs around Austin cater well to young professionals, offering a mix of amenities, proximity to employers, and vibrant communities:

 

  • Round Rock: Home to major employers like Dell Technologies® and a thriving tech scene, Round Rock offers a variety of housing options, quality schools, and numerous amenities. Its proximity to Austin and relatively affordable housing make it appealing. Explore our new construction homes in Round Rock, TX.

     

  • Cedar Park: Cedar Park has plentiful outdoor recreational opportunities and growing appeal to major employers. The city has several housing options, including new developments and established neighborhoods. With easy access to Austin via major highways, Cedar Park offers a convenient location. Browse our new construction homes in Cedar Park, TX.

     

  • Georgetown: A mix of historic charm, outdoor recreational opportunities, and numerous employers nearby draw plenty of people to this suburb. Georgetown also has a strong sense of community with regular events and festivals, and its affordability, quality schools, and proximity to Austin make it an appealing choice for those climbing the corporate ladder while seeking a quieter pace of life. Enjoy our new construction homes in Georgetown, TX.

 

Best Suburbs of Austin for Families and Individuals

The community-oriented suburbs of Austin, TX, are ideal for all kinds of households. These inviting neighborhoods are among our top picks:

 

  • Round Rock: Known for its community-oriented atmosphere, Round Rock consistently ranks high among the best Austin suburbs. The city offers a variety of housing options, parks, recreational facilities, and community events. Explore our new construction homes in Round Rock, TX.

     

  • Cedar Park: Home to quality schools, beautiful neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community, this suburb also offers numerous parks, sports facilities, and events throughout the year. Browse our new construction homes in Cedar Park, TX.

     

  • Georgetown: Georgetown has parks, cultural attractions, and great options for outdoor activities, placing it among the best Austin suburbs. Enjoy our new construction homes in Georgetown, TX.
Exterior of a new construction home in Austin, TX, at dusk
Exterior of a new construction home in Austin, TX, at dusk

New Construction Homes in Austin, TX, Suburbs

Explore the many new construction homes in Austin, TX, from Pulte.

 

North Austin Communities

  • Whitestone Preserve: This new townhome community offers easy access to the H-E-B Center, as well as nearby parks, major highways, and shopping destinations like Lakeline Mall and The Domain.

     

  • Monarch on Main: Here’s another new townhome community with a wide array of social and entertainment options, including performances at the Sam Bass Community Theatre. With various eateries like Chuy's® and Jack Allen's Kitchen® nearby, as well as parks such as Old Settlers Park and golf courses like Forest Creek Golf Club, there's plenty here to enjoy.

     

  • Northpoint at Old Settlers: Experience exceptional townhome living complete with several recreational facilities. With smart home features integrated into Life Tested® floor plans, this community offers the ideal solution for every stage of life.

     

  • Patterson Ranch: Amenities like pavilions, picnic areas, children's playscapes, and trails amid open green spaces make this community ideal for lovers of the outdoors. Residents have lots of retail options at the Round Rock Outlets and can explore nature at Berry Springs Park.

     

  • Wolf Ranch: With proximity to Lake Georgetown, Blue Hole Park, and the San Gabriel River, along with premier golf courses like Cimarron Hills and Teravista, this neighborhood offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Neighborhood amenities include resort-style pools, trails, and Barefoot Park.

     

  • Crescent Bluff: With its scenic backdrop and amenities like a pavilion, pool, pocket parks, and river trail system, this new construction community offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and convenience.

     

  • Highland Village: This single-family home community, with an on-site play park and proximity to Lake Georgetown and the San Gabriel River, offers easy access to major highways, including I-35 and Highway 130.

     

  • Saddleback at Santa Rita Ranch: A prime location near Lake Georgetown offers easy access to boating, skiing, fishing, and camping. Residents also enjoy proximity to Garey Park, a 525-acre public park with nature-themed playgrounds and a splash pad. On-site community amenities include leisure and lap pools, The Green Park with a basketball court and fitness zone, and The Ranch House with outdoor seating, a lounge area, and lots of space for social events.

     

  • Santa Rita Ranch: The wide range of conveniences in this community includes a leisure and lap pool, splash pad, water slides, The Ranch House amenity center with a fireplace area, game area with grills, and nature trails.

     

  • Bluffview: Resort-style living meets Life Tested® home designs in this community. Enjoy amenities like a community pool, children's playscape, sports court, and miles of nature trails.

     

  • Bluffview Reserve: This single-family home community offers access to quality fitness centers, Sandy Creek and Jones Harbor Marinas, major shopping centers, Lake Travis, and abundant parks.

     

  • Reserve at North Fork: Enjoy convenient access to The Forum, The Parke, and the 1890 Ranch for shopping, as well as the H-E-B Center at Cedar Park for social and entertainment activities. Fitness and health amenities, such as a neighborhood park and children's playscape, are also available, with the bonus of proximity to Lake Travis and Lake Georgetown.

     

  • Horizon Lake: This community has new construction homes and offers easy access to North Austin employers, the Leander Independent School District, and a range of amenities, including outdoor trails, a children's playscape, a pavilion and grilling area, and a central lake reservoir.

 

West Austin Communities

  • Lagos: Close to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, this premium location offers convenient access to Lagos Elementary School, lake and park amenities, and proximity to ShadowGlen Golf Club, all conveniently located southeast of the SH-130 and US-290 intersection.

 

South Austin Communities

  • Sunfield: Enjoy affordable resort-style living, with amenities like a junior lap pool, children’s splash pad, fishing ponds, dog parks, a lazy river, and extensive hiking and biking trails.

     

  • Crosswinds: With 130 acres of open space, six parks, trails, and playscapes, this community is perfect for those who embrace an active lifestyle. The amenity center, swimming pool, and pickleball court are just a few places where neighbors can meet and create lasting memories.

     

  • 6 Creeks: Residents here have convenient access to local gyms and nearby parks, such as Downtown Kyle Park and Plum Creek Kyle Park, as well as resort-style amenities and proximity to popular natural areas like Lake Kyle Park and Blue Hole Regional Park.

     

  • La Cima: This community features 800 acres of parkland and open space, over 10 miles of trails, and a 45-acre Central Park to socialize, exercise, or simply bask in the sun.

 

East Austin Communities

  • Sweetwater: A single-family home community featuring natural surroundings, a 10-acre recreational complex with a resort-style pool, event lawn, and a trail system. Its proximity to Highway 71 offers easy access to employers, shopping corridors, and quality schools.

     

  • West Cypress Hills: The new construction homes in this community are ideal for anyone seeking an active lifestyle in the Texas Hill Country. Enjoy outdoor recreation nearby at beautiful Lake Travis and convenient access to retail and dining options.

 

Austin Neighborhoods Conclusion

From outdoor adventures and annual festivals to beautiful natural surroundings and convenient amenities, the top suburbs in Austin, Texas, are packed with things to do and see; it’s no wonder so many call this appealing and exciting city home. Explore our communities, browse new construction homes, and find your slice of Texas heaven today! 

Explore new construction homes in Austin, TX, today or browse more Pulte blogs. You can also find affordable home builders in Austin with Centex.

Written By: Jordan Thomson, Freelance Writer

Last Updated: 9/25/24