The Absolute Best Neighborhoods in Austin For Families

Moving to a new city is challenging. Moving to a new city with a family in tow even more so. Not only do you have to find the perfect home to live in, but the perfect place for you and your family to call home. Suddenly, things like ‘neighborhood safety’ and ‘school quality’ can compete with traditional factors like ‘number of bedrooms and bathrooms, the purchase price, and even the lot size. This will add more options to an already complex decision, forcing you to take into account dozens of factors when it comes to finding a new home.

That’s why we wrote this post—a well-researched guide to some of the best neighborhoods for families in Austin–to take the guesswork out of finding a family-friendly home in the Austin area.

Below, you’ll find a list of the best family-friendly neighborhoods Austin has to offer, paired with a brief description about what makes it great, and a few family-friendly attractions worth a look. All cities listed have been pre-vetted for safety, convenience, and proximity to family-friendly amenities (like schools and parks), so all you have to do is find one that best matches you or your families’ lifestyle.

We hope this list makes family home buying in Austin a little less overwhelming, a little more fun, and a whole lot easier for everyone.

Avery Ranch

Avery Ranch sits just 20 miles north of downtown Austin, making it the perfect peaceful neighborhood for parents who need to commute downtown. Part of a sprawling master-planned community with 4K+ homes and several top-rated schools, it’s among the best neighborhoods in Austin for families. In Avery Ranch, you’ll find single family houses and condos for sale adjacent to modern, urban amenities. And, with picturesque views, lush green space, and plenty of parks, and playgrounds, you’ll find it offers the best of what both urban and rural communities have to offer.

Family Friendly Things To Do In Avery Ranch

• Brushy Creek Lake Park
• Brush Creek Sports Park
• Kelly Reeves Athletic Complex

Brentwood

Known for its small-town feel amidst big city amenities in Central Austin, Brentwood is perfect for families who want to settle down in a local, close-knit community. With single-story homes paired with modern multi-bedroom houses (surrounded by old oak trees and creeks) you’ll find dozens of affordable dwellings that can match your lifestyle. Brentwood is also home to playgrounds, public libraries, parks, pools, and picnic areas, as well as a plethora of kid friendly restaurants. And with public and private schools nearby—your kids will be happy, lively, and supported in their development.

Family Friendly Things To Do in Brentwood

• Brentwood Park
• Maze Rooms Austin
• Amy’s Ice Cream
• Tiny Pies

Pflugerville

One of the fastest growing communities around Austin, Pflugerville is known for its charming attractions, more than 40 parks, and beautiful 180-acre reservoir (open year round for fishing, swimming, jogging, kayaking and windsurfing). Located just 18 miles northeast of downtown Austin, it’s perfect for commuters looking to escape the big city, and for families seeking a fun, active lifestyle outside it. It’s also home to a variety of house styles—including several 100-year-old houses and prairie style homes.

Family Friendly Things To Do in Pflugerville

• Spare Time (Bowling, Laser Tag, & Game Room)
• Harris Ridge Dog Park
• Pfluger Park Playground
• Andy’s Frozen Custard

Cherrywood

Located in East Austin, Cherrywood makes the list for best neighborhoods in Austin for families primarily because of its close proximity to the University of Texas campus. With many houses in the area built for families in the 1950s, plenty of things to do, and ample green space (perfect for outdoor picnics, or playing ball) it's one of the best places to buy a home. Here, you’ll find endless lots of Craftsman-style houses, wood-frame houses, and bungalows.

Family Friendly Things To Do in Cherrywood

• Thinkery Children’s Museum
• University of Texas Baseball & Softball Fields
• Pharr Tennis Center
• Mueller Lake Park
• Cherrywood Pocket Park

Downtown Austin

Like to get active? If you’re looking to live an urban, active lifestyle (while raising bright, lively kids) searching for a home for sale in downtown Austin may be exactly what your family needs. With all there is to offer—including museums, art galleries, parks, rivers, and trails—you’ll find no shortage of entertainment in Downtown Austin. And, with all sorts of housing options—including a mix of lofts, apartments, high-rise condos, and modern houses—you’re sure to find the perfect home for you!

Family Friendly Things To Do in Downtown Austin

• Lady Bird Lake Hike & Bike Trail
• Texas Capitol Grounds
• Paramount Theater
• Bullock Texas State History Museum

Windsor Park

Located just 6 miles northeast of downtown Austin, Windsor Park is the home of numerous attractions—including taco joints, coffee bars, and a variety of picnic areas and playground. But don’t let its proximity to downtown Austin fool you! With quiet city streets, more affordable housing, friendly neighbors, and a homey, small-town feel—it’s a popular spot for families who want to settle down while also living close to downtown Austin. What’s more, the area contains a broad mix of friendly local residents—including young professionals, long-time denizens, and extended families—so you’ll have little trouble making friends with your new neighbors.

Family Friendly Things To Do in Windsor Park

• Mueller Lake Park
• Bartholomew District Park (includes swimming pool with slide)
• Lick Ice Cream

Crestview

With many of its homes built between 1940 and 1960, Crestview is home to a range of ranch-style houses (as well as recently built, contemporary homes) surrounded by a calming, low-key atmosphere. Known for its walkability, you’ll find quick access to local shops and family-friendly restaurants, as well as dozens of walkways—ideal for taking a quick stroll before, after, or on-your-way to work. Crestwood is perfect for those who want big-amenities in a small, peaceful package, which is why it is one of the best neighborhoods in Austin for families.

Family Friendly Things To Do in Crestview

• Little Deli & Pizzeria
• Tacodeli
• Terra Toys
• Northwest District Park

Get Help Finding (And Buying) A Family Home in Austin

Want some help finding an Austin home that’s perfect for you and your family? We can help. At Pauly Presley Realty, we’ve helped countless individuals and families find their perfect home in Austin, and would love to help you find your next home.

Our team of over 35 real estate agents specializes in matching our clients with the perfect property that meets all your needs. Whether you’re looking to rent or buy, we can work with you to provide the latest listings that meet your exact preferences, while providing the best advice possible. We’ll make the entire process of finding and buying a home for your family easier (so that you can worry less and enjoy the process along the way).

Ready to find your dream home? Contact us today to speak to a professional Austin realtor who can make it happen!