Best Places to Live in Austin if Downtown is Too Expensive

Priced out of downtown Austin? Don’t sweat it. Here’s a quick rundown of affordable neighborhoods that still give you that Austin vibe:

1. East Cesar Chavez: $1,893 avg. rent, artsy vibe
2. Holly: $2,065 avg. rent, walkable and close to Lady Bird Lake
3. Cherrywood: $1,299 avg. rent, family-friendly
4. Mueller: $1,678 avg. rent, eco-friendly planned community
5. Windsor Park: $1,523 avg. rent, suburban feel
6. Pleasant Valley: $478,784 median home price, lots of parks

Quick Comparison:

Each hood has its own flavor. You might dig East Cesar Chavez’s art scene or Mueller’s green spaces. Bottom line? You can still live the Austin life without breaking the bank.

East Cesar Chavez

Want a taste of Austin without breaking the bank? East Cesar Chavez might be your spot. This East Austin gem offers urban living without the downtown price tag.

Here’s the deal: while downtown Austin’s one-bedroom apartments average $2,491 a month, East Cesar Chavez comes in at $1,893. That’s $598 back in your pocket every month. Think about it – that’s extra cash for food trucks and live music.

But it’s not just about saving money. East Cesar Chavez is where Austin’s famous vibe comes to life. It’s a melting pot that draws in students, artists, and young families. No wonder Forbes called East Austin one of America’s hippest neighborhoods.

“Forbes called East Austin one of America’s hippest hipster neighborhoods.” – Ryan Rodenbeck, Author.

Getting around? Easy. You can walk pretty much anywhere in the neighborhood. And when you need to hit downtown, public transit’s got you covered. The metro rail stations at MLK and Plaza Saltillo can zip you there in no time.

Thinking about buying? East Cesar Chavez has a mix of new condos and old-school homes. Prices usually run from $400,000 to $600,000, with some places going for over a million. But here’s a heads up: the median home price has dropped 20.6% in the last year, sitting at $578,000 for the past month.

Need to shop? The Mueller Retail Center is right there. It’s got over 25 stores, including big names like Old Navy, Marshalls, and Home Depot.

East Cesar Chavez isn’t just a place to live – it’s a way of life. It’s where Austin’s famous “weird” meets affordability. If you want that Austin vibe without the downtown costs, East Cesar Chavez might be your perfect match.

2. Holly

Want to live near downtown Austin without emptying your wallet? Holly might be your spot. This East Austin neighborhood gives you city living with a community feel, all at a price that won’t make you cry.

Let’s talk cash. Downtown Austin? $3,157 average rent. Holly? $2,065. That’s $1,000+ back in your pocket every month. Buying? Homes in Holly go for around $470,000, with prices from $420,000 to $1.7 million.

But Holly’s not just about saving bucks. It’s about living it up, Austin-style. It’s a hop and a skip from downtown, perfect for the young pros and creatives who want to stay in the loop.

Holly’s outdoor game is strong. It’s right by Lady Bird Lake, so hiking and biking trails are your backyard. Edward Rendon Sr. Park is the local hangout, with BBQ spots, basketball courts, and an outdoor pool. Hello, Texas summer survival!

Getting around? Easy peasy. Holly scores 90 for walking and 98 for biking. Ditch the car and explore on foot or bike. Need to go further? Public transit’s got your back.

Now, let’s chat food. Holly’s got some serious eats:

• Launderette: Old laundromat turned Mediterranean hotspot. Their burger? People say it’s one of Austin’s best.
• La Barbecue: Want Texas BBQ? Their pulled pork with chipotle slaw is so good, it’s got celeb fans like Justin Timberlake and Beyoncé.
• Juan in a Million: Voted best hangover cure and top breakfast taco. It’s an Austin must-try.

Holly isn’t just a place to crash. It’s a way of life. It mixes quiet streets with city buzz so well, it was once named the 24th coolest neighborhood in the world. So if downtown’s too pricey but you still want that Austin vibe, Holly might be your new home base.

3. Cherrywood

Want Austin vibes without the downtown price tag? Check out Cherrywood. This neighborhood, just northeast of downtown, offers a sweet spot of affordability and convenience.

Let’s talk cash. Downtown Austin’s average rent? A whopping $3,157. Cherrywood? A much nicer $1,299. That’s $1,858 back in your pocket every month. Hello, extra cash for Cherrywood’s local spots!

But Cherrywood isn’t just about saving dough. It’s about living that Austin life. It’s a mix of students, families, and young pros, creating a vibe that screams “Austin.”

Getting around? Easy peasy. Cherrywood’s great for walking and biking. Most folks can ditch their cars for daily stuff. Need downtown? 10-minute drive. Work at UT? 7-minute commute. Nice.

“Cherrywood folks love their neighborhood’s community feel, family-friendly vibe, and green spaces.” – Neighborhoods.com

Speaking of green, Cherrywood’s got it. Patterson Park is the star, with a public pool, tennis courts, basketball courts, and more. Perfect for weekend picnics or morning runs.

Food scene? On point. From Salty Sow‘s BBQ to Dai Due‘s farm-to-table goodness, your taste buds won’t get bored. Coffee lovers, hit up Cherrywood Coffeehouse or Thunderbird Coffee for top-notch brews.

Real estate time. Median sale price in Cherrywood? Mid $400s. Recent closings? High $100s to mid $900s. Something for everyone.

Quick comparison:

Cherrywood isn’t just a place to crash. It’s a lifestyle. It’s Austin weird without the crazy price tag. Priced out of downtown but want that real Austin experience? Cherrywood might be your new home base.

4. Mueller

Want an Austin neighborhood that’s easy on your wallet but big on modern living? Check out Mueller. This planned community, just 3 miles from downtown, mixes affordability with sustainability and convenience.

Let’s talk money. Downtown Austin’s average rent? A whopping $3,157. Mueller? Just $1,678. That’s $1,500 extra in your pocket each month. Think of all the tacos you could buy!

But Mueller’s not just about saving cash. It’s about smart living. This eco-friendly area was built for walking. Ditch your car for bike paths and walkways. With over 20% green space, you’ve got room to roam.

The heart of Mueller is Aldrich Street. It’s packed with shops, restaurants, and fun stuff to do. Hungry? Try Chi’lantro‘s kimchi fries or L’Oca d’Oro‘s local Italian dishes.

Sunday mornings here are special. The Texas Farmer’s Market (voted Austin’s best for 9 years straight) brings fresh food, crafts, and music right to you. It’s a great way to start your week.

Got kids? Mueller’s got you covered. The Thinkery, a huge children’s museum, will keep them busy for hours. Plus, schools, parks, and grocery stores are all a short walk away.

Here’s how Mueller stacks up against downtown:

Mueller isn’t just a place to live. It’s a way of life. It’s where you can save money, live green, and be part of a real community. Priced out of downtown but still want that Austin vibe? Mueller might be your new home sweet home.

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5. Windsor Park

Want to live near downtown Austin without emptying your wallet? Check out Windsor Park. It’s just 6 miles from the city center and offers a great mix of affordability and convenience.

Let’s talk numbers. Downtown Austin’s average rent? A hefty $3,157. Windsor Park? Just $1,523. That’s $1,600 extra in your pocket each month. Here’s the breakdown:

But Windsor Park isn’t just about saving money. It’s about living the Austin life without the downtown price tag. This 1950s neighborhood has a family-friendly feel with wide streets, well-kept yards, and a mix of old and new homes.

Getting around is a breeze. Windsor Park sits between I-35 and Highway 290, making it easy to navigate Austin. Commuting downtown? No problem. You’ve got 54 Capital Metro bus stops in the area, or you can bike it – the neighborhood has a solid bike score of 73.

Now, let’s talk fun stuff. Windsor Park has some great green spaces:

Bartholomew District Park is a 57-acre playground with a swimming pool, splash pad, disc golf, picnic areas, playgrounds, and basketball courts. It’s like a mini-vacation spot right in your neighborhood.

Dottie Jordan Park spans 17 acres and offers tennis courts, baseball fields, and a summer outdoor swimming pool. Perfect for those hot Texas days.

Hungry? Windsor Park’s got you covered. Grab a coffee at Cherrywood Coffeehouse or a quick burger at P. Terry’s Burger Stand.

Now, it’s not all perfect. Windsor Park does have some safety issues. It’s in the 9th percentile for safety, meaning 91% of neighborhoods are safer. But don’t panic – 67% of residents still say they feel “pretty safe.”

“The Windsor Park neighborhood is a community of friendly and welcoming people making it a great place to settle down.” – Lincoln-Goldfinch Law

Bottom line: Windsor Park hits that sweet spot of affordability and accessibility. You can save money, enjoy plenty of green spaces, and still be close to downtown Austin. If you’re priced out of downtown but still want that Austin vibe, Windsor Park might be your new home base.

6. Pleasant Valley

Want to live in Austin without emptying your wallet? Check out Pleasant Valley. It’s cheaper than downtown but still keeps you in the city loop.

Let’s talk money. Downtown Austin’s average rent? A whopping $3,157. Pleasant Valley? Much easier on the bank account. The median home price here is $478,784. And if you’re into renting, you’re in luck – 82% of households here are rentals.

But Pleasant Valley isn’t just about saving cash. It’s about living the Austin life, your way. The neighborhood has parks galore. Lakeshore Park, Roy G Guerrero Colorado River Park, and Town Lake Park are local favorites. Perfect for your weekend chill or morning run.

Hungry? No problem. Taco More and Antojitos Mexicanos Los Jarochos serve up tasty local grub. Need coffee? Hit up Afuga Coffee or Flitch Coffee.

Now, let’s talk getting around. Pleasant Valley isn’t exactly a walker’s paradise – it scores a low 19 for walkability. But don’t worry, there are 35 Capital Metro bus stops to help you out. The average Austin commute is about 25 minutes, so plan accordingly.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Safety? It’s okay. 50% of residents feel “pretty safe”, while 40% feel “somewhat safe.” Not perfect, but not terrible either.

“Pleasant Valley is a sweet spot of affordability and accessibility”, says a local real estate pro. “It’s great for folks who want city life without the downtown price tag.”

For the eco-warriors out there, Pleasant Valley has 4 electric vehicle charging spots with 10 level-2 charging points. It’s a start.

Bottom line: Pleasant Valley might not be Austin’s coolest spot, but it’s a solid mix of affordability and accessibility. Priced out of downtown but still want that Austin vibe? Pleasant Valley could be your new home base.

What to Consider: Good and Bad Points

Let’s break down the key points for each neighborhood we’ve discussed. These areas offer cheaper alternatives to downtown Austin, but each comes with its own set of pros and cons.

East Cesar Chavez

This vibrant neighborhood is a mix of students, artists, and families. It’s significantly cheaper than downtown, with a one-bedroom apartment costing $1,893 compared to $2,491 downtown.

“East Cesar Chavez is like Austin’s artistic heartbeat. You’ll find food trucks on every corner and live music filling the air.”

But it’s not all roses. Gentrification is changing the area’s character, and while it’s cheaper than downtown, home prices can still hit $600,000+. Plus, it can get noisy during events and weekends.

Holly

Holly offers a sweet spot between affordability and location. The average rent is $2,065, compared to $3,157 downtown. It’s a stone’s throw from Lady Bird Lake and scores high on walkability.

But here’s the catch: ongoing gentrification might drive up costs. And with a safety percentile of 9, it’s not winning any awards for security. Public transit options are also limited compared to downtown.

Cherrywood

If you’re looking for a family-friendly vibe with a strong community feel, Cherrywood might be your jam. At $1,299 average rent, it’s a steal compared to downtown’s $3,157.

The trade-off? It’s a 10-minute drive from downtown, and nightlife options are limited. But hey, if you’re into quiet evenings and diverse food options, this could be your spot.

Mueller

Mueller is like the new kid on the block. It’s a planned community with 20% green space and a focus on sustainable living. At $1,678 average rent, it’s easier on the wallet than downtown.

“Mueller is Austin’s green dream. It’s like living in a park, but with all the amenities of a modern neighborhood.”

The downside? It’s 3 miles from downtown and can feel less “authentically Austin” to some. But if you’re all about that planned community life, Mueller’s got you covered.

Windsor Park

Windsor Park is a budget-friendly option at $1,523 average rent. It’s family-friendly with wide streets and well-kept yards. But it’s got its issues – a safety percentile of 9 and a walkability score of 19 aren’t exactly bragging points.

Pleasant Valley

Pleasant Valley offers affordable housing with a median home price of $478,784. It’s got parks galore and a high percentage of rental properties.

But it’s not all smooth sailing. The walkability score is a low 19, dining options are limited, and only 50% of residents feel “pretty safe”.

When picking your new hood, think about what matters most to you. Want affordability and don’t mind a short drive? Check out Cherrywood or Windsor Park. Craving urban vibes without the downtown price tag? East Cesar Chavez or Holly might be your speed. And for the family-focused folks, Mueller could be just the ticket.

Summary

Want Austin vibes without the downtown price tag? You’re in luck. Here’s the scoop on affordable neighborhoods that don’t skimp on character:

East Cesar Chavez: At $1,893 for a one-bedroom, it’s WAY cheaper than downtown’s $2,491. Perfect for artsy types who love Austin’s weird side.

Holly: Average rent of $2,065. Close to Lady Bird Lake and super walkable. It’s like downtown’s cooler, more affordable cousin.

Cherrywood: Family-friendly and easy on the wallet. Average rent? Just $1,299. It’s a quick 10-minute drive to downtown, so you’re not missing out.

Mueller: Green living without the green price tag. Average rent is $1,678. Bonus: 20% of the neighborhood is green space. Mother Nature approves.

Windsor Park: Suburban feel, city convenience. Average rent: $1,523. Wide streets, nice yards, and your wallet stays happy.

Pleasant Valley: Median home price of $478,784. Lots of parks for the nature lovers. It’s like living in a giant, affordable garden.

And if you’re cool with a bit of a commute, check out these suburbs:

Each spot has its own flavor. Maybe you’ll fall for East Cesar Chavez’s artsy vibe, Cherrywood’s family-friendly feel, or Mueller’s green spaces. Bottom line? There’s an affordable Austin neighborhood with your name on it.

FAQs

Where to live if you work in downtown Austin?

Working in downtown Austin but can’t stomach the sky-high rent? Don’t worry, you’ve got options. Here are some nearby neighborhoods that won’t break the bank:

East Cesar Chavez: Just a hop, skip, and a jump from downtown (2 miles east), this lively area keeps you in the thick of things. Average rent? $1,893 for a one-bedroom. That’s a steal compared to downtown’s $2,491.

Holly: Right by Lady Bird Lake, Holly’s got an average rent of $2,065. You can walk pretty much anywhere, and downtown’s a stone’s throw away.

Cherrywood: About a 10-minute drive from the hustle and bustle, Cherrywood’s average rent is a wallet-friendly $1,299. If you don’t mind a quick commute, your bank account will thank you.

Mueller: This planned community is 3 miles from downtown and has an average rent of $1,678. It’s perfect if you’re into modern living and sustainability.

Windsor Park: At $1,523 on average, Windsor Park is easy on the budget and great for families. It’s about 6 miles out, so get ready for a bit of a drive.

But here’s the thing: don’t just look at the price tag. Think about your commute, safety, and overall quality of life. For example, Cedar Park (20 miles north) has a solid public transit system. Or there’s San Marcos (30 miles south) with cool spots like Sewell Park and Rio Vista Falls.

“Picking the right suburb can be a head-scratcher, but with some help from interstate moving companies, it’s not as tough as you might think.” – State to State Move