Looking for the best schools in Austin? Here’s what you need to know about the top districts:
Top Districts at a Glance:
- Eanes ISD: #1 in Texas, 14:1 student ratio, 1310 avg SAT score
- Lake Travis ISD: 11,399 students, lakeside location
- Round Rock ISD: 96% graduation rate, serves 50,000+ students
- Leander ISD: 42,415 students, strong STEM focus
Quick District Comparison:
| District | Students | Student-Teacher Ratio | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eanes ISD | 7,733 | 14:1 | Top state ranking |
| Lake Travis ISD | 11,399 | 17.2:1 | Waterfront setting |
| Round Rock ISD | 50,200 | 15:1 | High graduation rate |
| Leander ISD | 42,415 | 15:1 | STEM programs |
What This Guide Covers:
- Detailed analysis of Austin’s best school districts
- Where to live near top schools
- How to pick the right district for your family
- Impact on property values
- Commute times from each district
Need help finding a home in these districts? Taco Street Locating offers free apartment locating services to match you with the right neighborhood for your family’s educational needs.
Austin’s Best School Districts
Austin is known for its strong schools, with several districts consistently recognized as some of the best in Texas. Here’s a closer look at the standout districts that help make Austin’s educational scene so competitive.
Eanes Independent School District (EISD)
Eanes ISD is widely regarded as Austin’s top school district, claiming the #1 spot among Texas districts, according to Niche. With a student body of just 7,733, it maintains a favorable 14:1 student-teacher ratio, allowing teachers to provide more individual attention. This smaller size fosters excellent academic results and creates a close-knit community environment.
"Eanes ISD’s commitment to maintaining small class sizes through its 14:1 student-teacher ratio has been instrumental in fostering an environment where students can thrive academically and personally."
Lake Travis Independent School District (LTISD)
Lake Travis ISD supports 11,399 students while offering a broad range of educational programs. With a 17.2:1 student-teacher ratio, the district strikes a balance between smaller class sizes and a variety of resources. Its location by Lake Travis adds a unique edge, providing students with opportunities to engage in outdoor and water-based learning activities alongside their academic curriculum.
Round Rock Independent School District (RRISD)
As one of Austin’s largest districts, Round Rock ISD serves an impressive 50,200 students. Despite this scale, it achieves a notable 96% graduation rate, a testament to its commitment to student success. The district’s size allows it to offer a wide array of programs and resources, catering to a diverse student population while maintaining high academic quality.
Leander Independent School District (LISD)
Leander ISD is home to over 42,415 students and boasts a strong focus on STEM education and extracurricular options. With a solid 15:1 student-teacher ratio, it strikes a balance between personalized learning and access to modern programs. Its rapid growth underscores its appeal to families seeking a balance of academic rigor and forward-thinking educational opportunities.
| District | Student Population | Student-Teacher Ratio | Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eanes ISD | 7,733 | 14:1 | Ranked #1 in Texas |
| Lake Travis ISD | 11,399 | 17.2:1 | Lakeside Location |
| Round Rock ISD | 50,200 | 15:1 | 96% Graduation Rate |
| Leander ISD | 42,415 | 15:1 | Focus on STEM Programs |
Other School Districts to Know
Austin is also home to other quality districts that stand out for their own specialties. These include Dripping Springs ISD, Austin ISD, Wimberley ISD, Liberty Hill ISD, and Lago Vista ISD. Whether it’s community involvement or specialized academic programs, these districts offer families additional options tailored to their preferences and priorities.
Comparing Austin’s School Districts
When looking at Austin’s school districts, several factors can make one appealing over another. Let’s dive into how they compare when it comes to academics, student population, and outcomes.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Austin’s school districts each shine in their own way, showing strengths in different areas. Here’s a breakdown of some important statistics:
| District | Student-Teacher Ratio | Average SAT Score | STARR Score | District Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eanes ISD | 14:1 | 1310 | 94/100 | A (96/100) |
| Lake Travis ISD | 17.2:1 | – | – | A |
| Round Rock ISD | 15:1 | – | 91/100 | 89/100 |
| Leander ISD | 15:1 | – | – | A |
| Dripping Springs ISD | 15:1 | – | 91+ | A |
Strengths and Challenges
Each district offers its own mix of benefits and hurdles, giving families plenty to think about. Here’s a closer look at what makes them stand out and where challenges might arise.
Eanes ISD has a track record of amazing academic results, topping Texas rankings. Its smaller classes (14:1 student-teacher ratio) seem to be key in achieving high performance, including a standout STARR score of 94/100.
"Eanes ISD’s average SAT score of 1310 and Student Achievement score of 96 out of 100 reflect the district’s commitment to academic excellence and individualized attention through its 14:1 student-teacher ratio."
Round Rock ISD is a large district serving over 50,000 students, yet it still maintains an impressive 96% graduation rate. They combine size with quality, reflected in their STARR score of 91/100, which shows a commitment to high educational standards even at scale.
Dripping Springs ISD focuses heavily on STEM programs, consistently earning STARR scores of 91 or higher. Its 15:1 student-teacher ratio helps it maintain quality while offering specialized opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math.
Lake Travis ISD, located along a scenic lakeside, provides students with unique learning experiences tied to its environment. However, the higher student-teacher ratio of 17.2:1 might mean less individual attention for some students.
Leander ISD serves a population of over 40,000 students, and its 15:1 student-teacher ratio helps to strike a balance between size and personalized instruction. Families value its wide range of programs and activities, which cater to diverse interests and needs.
Where to Live Near the Best Schools
Finding a great neighborhood near Austin’s top school districts often means balancing excellent education options with suitable housing. Each district offers a mix of communities, each catering to different family preferences and lifestyles.
Apartments and Neighborhoods for Families
The Westlake area, located within the boundaries of Eanes ISD, is home to several upscale communities like Westlake Hills, Rollingwood, Seven Oaks, and Davenport. These neighborhoods draw families for their proximity to Westlake High School, one of the best-performing schools in Texas. With a manageable 14:1 student-teacher ratio, the area delivers high education standards but comes with premium housing costs.
In Lake Travis ISD, the communities of Bee Cave, Lakeway, and Spicewood stand out. They offer a variety of housing options, ranging from luxury apartments to single-family homes, while ensuring access to Lake Travis High School. The district’s 17.2:1 student-teacher ratio reflects the growing demand among families moving to the Austin area.
For more budget-conscious families, Round Rock ISD provides strong academics across its communities in Austin, Cedar Park, and Round Rock. Housing options here are more affordable, offering something for everyone. Similarly, Leander ISD, with its 44 schools serving over 40,000 students, is another practical choice. Neighborhoods in Leander and Cedar Park provide excellent living options at a more reasonable cost for families.
"The communities within Eanes ISD consistently rank among Austin’s most sought-after neighborhoods, with their 96/100 district grade reflecting both academic excellence and strong property values."
Use Taco Street Locating to Find Housing
Finding the right home near your preferred school district doesn’t have to feel like a massive headache. Taco Street Locating offers a free apartment locating service designed to make the process smoother for families navigating Austin’s competitive housing market. Here’s what they provide:
| Service Feature | Benefit to Families |
|---|---|
| Personalized Consultations | Align your housing needs with specific school district boundaries. |
| Research Spreadsheets | Compare housing options while keeping district locations in mind. |
| Apartment Tours | Tour properties near your chosen schools. |
| Application Assistance | Make the move-in process simple and stress-free. |
This service is particularly helpful if you’re new to Austin and grappling with school district boundaries, budget limitations, and lifestyle requirements. Their local knowledge can save both time and effort, ensuring your new home matches your family’s educational and personal needs.
Things to Think About When Picking a School District
Commute Times and Work Location
Juggling top-notch schools with manageable commute times can help keep your family life running smoothly. For example, Eanes ISD offers a 14:1 student-teacher ratio, promising excellent education. However, it’s essential to weigh this against daily travel times between work and school. The benefits of living in a great district can quickly fade if lengthy commutes dominate your day.
| District Location | Average Commute to Downtown Austin |
|---|---|
| Eanes ISD | 15-20 minutes |
| Lake Travis ISD | 25-35 minutes |
| Round Rock ISD | 30-40 minutes |
| Leander ISD | 35-45 minutes |
School Maps and Enrollment Rules
Getting familiar with school zoning maps and enrollment policies is key to avoiding unwelcome surprises. Each district sets specific boundaries that determine which schools a student can attend. It’s always a smart move to check these maps directly on official district websites rather than relying on third-party tools that may be outdated.
"The quality of the school district is a major factor in determining the quality of life for families", says Christopher Watters, Real Estate Expert. "But equally important is understanding the enrollment process and deadlines."
Take a district like Round Rock ISD, which boasts a stellar 96% graduation rate. Districts often have firm enrollment timelines and require specific documents. Here are a few points to keep in mind:
- Proof of residency is often a must.
- Be aware of transfer deadlines if you’re considering switching schools within the district.
- Some schools, especially popular ones, have waitlists.
- Certain programs, like language immersion or gifted tracks, may have additional criteria.
Community and Local Life
Education isn’t just about grades – community involvement can seriously shape a student’s experience. Sure, Eanes ISD’s 96/100 Student Achievement score looks great on paper, and Wimberley ISD’s 92/100 District Grade is solid, too. But these numbers only tell part of the story.
When comparing districts, consider these community aspects:
- Extracurricular Options: Sports, arts, and clubs vary widely by district.
- Parent Engagement: Some schools have active PTAs or numerous volunteer opportunities.
- Diversity and Inclusion: Look at demographics and programs designed to encourage inclusivity.
- Local Amenities: Libraries, parks, and recreation centers can enhance both school and community life.
Check platforms like GreatSchools or Niche for honest reviews from parents. These can offer insights into things like school culture or teacher support that straight statistics won’t reveal. For instance, Lake Travis ISD’s 17.2:1 student-teacher ratio compared to Austin ISD’s 16:1 might suggest different approaches to individualized attention and classroom dynamics – something worth exploring further.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right School and Home
Recap of Austin’s Top School Districts
Each of Austin’s top school districts provides its own strengths, offering a variety of options for families. Eanes ISD excels with a strong 14:1 student-teacher ratio and an impressive average SAT score of 1310, positioning it as a standout choice for those prioritizing academic results. Lake Travis ISD focuses on college readiness, with 64% of students prepared for higher education through its comprehensive programs. Round Rock ISD boasts an outstanding 96% graduation rate while serving a diverse and large student body of over 50,000. On the other hand, Leander ISD ensures consistent educational quality with a 15:1 student-teacher ratio across its 44 schools.
| District | Key Strength | Notable Statistic |
|---|---|---|
| Eanes ISD | Academic Excellence | 1310 avg SAT score |
| Lake Travis ISD | College Preparation | 64% college-ready |
| Round Rock ISD | Graduation Success | 96% graduation rate |
| Leander ISD | Program Variety | 44 schools |
Making the Best Choice for Your Family
Choosing the right environment for education and home life means weighing multiple factors based on what works best for YOU. For instance, while Eanes ISD offers stellar academic stats, don’t overlook practical factors like commute times or housing options. If being closer to downtown is more convenient and aligns with your lifestyle, Lake Travis ISD may be a better match despite its slightly different student-teacher ratio.
"The quality of the school district is a major factor in determining the quality of life for families", says Christopher Watters, a real estate expert.
Need help narrowing down your options? Services like Taco Street Locating can simplify your search. They offer a free apartment locating service that helps connect families with neighborhoods near their preferred schools. They’ll take factors like school proximity, commute times, and local amenities into account to suggest the perfect spot for your family.
The right decision isn’t always about rankings. It’s about finding the district that offers the right mix of learning opportunities, convenience, and community to fit your family’s needs.
FAQs
What is the #1 school district in Austin?
The Eanes Independent School District (EISD) is widely regarded as Austin’s top-performing school district and even ranks as the best in Texas according to Niche. Covering areas like Westlake Hills, Rollingwood, Seven Oaks, and Davenport, EISD’s impressive academic achievements back up its reputation:
"Our data shows that Eanes ISD maintains the highest academic standards in the region, with a remarkable STARR score of 94 out of 100 and an average SAT score of 1310", highlights the Texas Education Agency’s 2024 district assessment.
One reason EISD stands out is its focus on smaller class sizes. With a student-teacher ratio of 14:1, educators can give students more individual attention, encouraging deeper learning and engagement. This approach has helped firmly secure its place at the top of state and national rankings year after year.
Families hoping to move into the EISD area should keep in mind that housing can be in high demand, with fewer options and higher costs due to the district’s strong reputation. Partnering with an apartment locating service could be a helpful way to find a property that fits your budget in this highly sought-after community.
