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Living in Austin is often described as vibrant, unique, and full of opportunities. The vibrancy is contagious, and people here enjoy the outdoors.
Residents stay true to the famous “Keep Austin Weird” culture. Some areas are packed with trendy cafes and lively nightlife, others are quiet streets perfect for families, and everything in between.
If you want to move to Austin, you’re in for a treat. While rent prices can vary with neighborhoods, you’ll find an option for your budget.
Based on our years of experience in the rental housing market, these are the best neighborhoods in Austin, TX.
Comparison of the Best Neighborhoods to Rent in Austin
| Neighborhood | Median Rent | Population | Walkability Score(Out of 100) | Distance to Downtown (Miles) |
| North Loop | $1,637 | 5,164 | 67 | 4.1 |
| South Manchaca | $1,774 | 6,571 | 51 | 4.7 |
| Bouldin Creek | $1,578 | 6,111 | 82 | 2.5 |
| North University | $1,419 | 4,519 | 84 | 2.2 |
| Rosewood | $1,094 | 5,086 | 70 | 2.4 |
| North Austin | $1,284 | 29,962 | 54 | 11.1 |
| Windsor Hills | $1,438 | 10,619 | 42 | 8.5 |
| Chestnut | $1,681 | 2,709 | 78 | 2.1 |
| East Cesar Chavez | $1,940 | 3,502 | 84 | 1.8 |
| Westgate | $1,265 | 4,476 | 57 | 7.7 |
| Highland | $1,443 | 5,521 | 69 | 6.5 |
| Johnston Terrace | $1,689 | 2,673 | 24 | 4.7 |
| Cherrywood and Mueller | $1,472 | 9,337 | 70 | 5.1 |
Best Neighborhoods in Austin To Rent
1. North Loop
North Loop is a vintage lover’s dream north of Hyde Park in Austin. It’s close to the University of Texas (UT) and a walking distance from downtown, making it a popular neighborhood for students and young professionals to rent in Austin. It’s like a chilled-out, budget-friendly version of Hyde Park.
Local businesses thrive here, with thrift stores, vinyl shops, and quirky boutiques lining the streets. If you’re a foodie, you’ll love the many options, from cozy cafes to funky bars and food trucks.
Check out these spots.
- Epoch Coffee for late-night study sessions
- Tigress Pub for craft cocktails.
- Live shows at the Workhorse Bar
- Monkey Wrench Books
The nearby Metro Rail station makes exploring easy, but with so much charm here, you might never want to leave.
2. South Manchaca
South Manchaca, or SoMa, is about 5 miles from downtown. Despite its proximity, SoMa has maintained its friendly, residential feel. It’s the kind of place where neighbors chat on front porches and families go for evening strolls.
While here, check out Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ, Texas Keeper Cider, a 20-acre ranch for wines and ciders, and bar hop the many bars along Menchaca Rd.
The Cattlelacs Chainsaw Art and Gallery is incredible for art lovers, or hang out at the Manchaca Springs Saloon. Nature enthusiasts will love the greenery and mature trees in the neighborhood’s backyard and the proximity to Mary Moore Searight Metropolitan Park, with trails and disc golf.
3. Bouldin Creek
The artsy Bouldin Creek, just across Lady Bird Lake from downtown, is a magnet for artists and creatives and home to the iconic “Greetings from Austin” mural. There are galleries, irresistibly vibrant street art, and the serene West Bouldin Creek Greenbelt. For a change of scenery, Auditorium Shores has incredible lakeside views and a popular dog park.
Whatever you do, a stroll down South First Street is a must. From farm-to-table spots to mouthwatering taco trucks and cozy coffee shops to family-owned restaurants, you will be in food heaven.
And when you decide to call it home, get a bike. There’s nothing you can compare to cycling along its tree-lined streets or walking the well-maintained sidewalks. Plus, good public transportation makes it a breeze to venture beyond the neighborhood.
4. North University
North University, often called North Campus, is a hub for student housing and one of the safest areas in Austin. Its proximity to the university makes it one of the best neighborhoods in Austin to rent for students and young professionals. Besides beautiful historic homes and modern apartments, several bus routes run through the area, and the MetroRail MLK Station is nearby.
Guadalupe Street, nicknamed “The Drag,” buzzes with shops, restaurants, and entertainment joints. Picnics or outdoor studying at Hemphill Park is therapeutic when you need a break. And for a dose of culture, go see the Briscoe Center for American History and end your day with drinks and live music at the Hole in the Wall.
5. Rosewood
The Rosewood neighborhood is rich in history and diversity. The neighborhood hosts community events like the Juneteenth Cookout and Music Festival.
Make sure to check out:
- Rosewood Park’s trails and facilities
- Boggy Creek Greenbelt
- Mueller Lake Park
- The Millennium Youth Entertainment Complex indoor roller rink, bowling alley, arcade, movie theater, and food court
Public transportation is a breeze with Capital Metro bus lines and the nearby MLK Jr. MetroRail Station. For food options, check out Moonshine Grill for comfort food and wines, Mexican street eats at Discada, the Cavalier for beer and cocktails menu, and the numerous food trucks.
6. North Austin
North Austin is one of the best neighborhoods in Austin for singles. It blends suburban comfort with urban convenience, attracting a diverse mix of young professionals and families.
Rentals here are typically spacious and affordable compared to central Austin. Getting around with bus routes and the MetroRail Red Line is also accessible.
You can’t miss The Domain, the show-stopping, massive center for all your outdoor shopping needs. Nature lovers say the Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park is a great place to walk, run, bike, or bring your dog. There’s everything, from gyms, grocery stores, medical facilities, breweries, and food trucks.
7. Windsor Hills
Windsor Hills in North Austin, just 15-20 minutes from downtown, is between bustling tech corridors and peaceful residential areas. The neighborhood’s sense of community makes you feel like a home away from home.
Its affordability makes it one of the best Austin neighborhoods. What it lacks in walkability, it makes up with its green spaces, access to highways, and above-average public schools. So, a car or bike is helpful to experience the best parts of Windsor Hills.
The local eateries along Cameron Road and Rundberg Lane serve delicious meals. You should also check out Tech Ridge and Norwood Park, the go-to spots for shopping and entertainment.
8. Chestnut
The artistic Chestnut neighborhood combines Austin’s charm and new urban vibe. It features colorful street art, renovated bungalows, and modern apartments.
It’s one of the best neighborhoods for long-term and short-term rentals in Austin, thanks to its affordability and proximity to downtown. The highly walkable and bike-friendly sidewalks make it easy to,
- Grab a coffee at Thunderbird Coffee
- Enjoy farm-to-table eats at Dai Due
- Catch a show at the historic Scoot Inn
The MetroRail Red Line stops at Plaza Saltillo, or you can use the bus routes available.
9. East Cesar Chavez
The East Cesar Chavez neighborhood’s views of Lady Bird Lake are breathtakingly beautiful. Add that to the colorful murals, lively nightlife, and natural scenery; you’ll be hooked here for life.
Your favorite joints and restaurants are within walking distance. So, stroll down the main drag to Cenote for coffee, Bufalina for amazing pizza, or Craftsman for craft cocktails. The neighborhood is also home to several art galleries and studios.
While it’s become increasingly popular (and thus, pricier) in recent years, you still have a range of housing options in East Cesar Chavez. The proximity to Lady Bird Lake and its hike-and-bike trail means you can spend weekends paddleboarding, jogging, or just enjoying a picnic by the water.
10. Westgate
Westgate, a family-friendly neighborhood in South Austin, has vintage charm. It hosts the annual Westgate Home Tour to showcase the beautiful historic homes. Just 15 minutes from downtown, housing is affordable in one of the best neighborhoods in Austin, Texas, for young professionals.
The area has excellent schools and spacious parks, like Williamson Creek Greenbelt. Foodies will love the diverse restaurant and menu options along South Lamar.
Westgate’s lower crime rates and well-maintained parks make it even more attractive. For shopping and entertainment, the Westgate Shopping Center covers most daily needs.
11. Highland
If you’re new, Highland is the best neighborhood in Austin for young adults and newcomers. It’s a perfect mix of affordability and convenience in North-Central Austin.
The MetroRail Red Line and bus routes connect you to downtown and UT Austin, or you can walk along Airport Boulevard for everything food, from taco joints to upscale eateries.
Its crown jewel is the recently redeveloped Highland Mall area, which now houses Austin Community College, parks, and shopping areas. With its safe streets, a mix of apartments and single-family homes, and a growing community of young professionals, you’ll enjoy a quieter lifestyle with urban perks.
12. Johnston Terrace
Johnston Terrace, a hidden treasure in East Austin, is also among the best neighborhoods in Austin for young adults. Its proximity to the University of Texas and downtown makes it an alternative affordable neighborhood in Austin.
Public transit is reliable, with several bus lines connecting key city spots. And when you want a taste of the neighborhood, local favorites like Nixta Taqueria and Patrizi’s serve delicious eats. The area boasts well-maintained parks and a community garden, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Safety is a priority here, with an active neighborhood watch program. Johnston Terrace combines affordability, location, and community spirit—an attractive choice for new renters in Austin.
13. Cherrywood and Mueller
Cherrywood borders the University of Texas, making it an excellent option for students and young professionals. This neighborhood is known for its tree-canopied streets, colorful bungalows, and mid-century ranch-style homes.
Mueller, on the other hand, is a master-planned community, with housing often fitted with energy-efficient features. The neighborhood center has shops, restaurants, and the Thinkery children’s museum, while Lake Park and Southwest Greenway offer beautiful outdoor spaces for recreation and relaxation.
Both Cherrywood and Mueller have good public transportation. While Cherrywood has a more established, quirky Austin feel, Mueller is more planned and contemporary.
Find the Best Neighborhoods in Austin to Rent
Are you looking for the best neighborhood to rent in Austin with affordability, reliable public transport, or even proximity to downtown without the hefty price?
June Homes will help you find the best neighborhood and housing options based on your budget and preferences. Whether you’re looking for neighborhoods for students, young professionals, or families, we have housing listings to match your needs.
Explore our rooms and apartments in Austin and find your next place to call home.
