Georgetown, Texas is a growing town just 30 miles north of Austin, blending historic charm with modern conveniences. Known for its Victorian architecture and vibrant downtown square, Georgetown offers a mix of affordable living, outdoor activities, and easy access to Austin‘s urban lifestyle. Here’s what you need to know:
- Rental Market: Average rent is $1,289/month, with most properties between $1,001–$1,500. Apartments average 992 sq. ft., smaller than the national average but 7% cheaper than last year.
- Apartment Options: Choices include The Summit at Rivery Park (starting at $1,009), Parallax at Georgetown (near downtown), and Retreat at Wolf Ranch ($1,065+), all offering modern amenities.
- Lifestyle: The town features walkable streets, scenic trails, and a bustling arts scene, with events like the December Home Tour supporting historic preservation.
- Commute to Austin: Driving takes 45 minutes–1 hour, with alternatives like buses ($2–$6) and rideshares ($30–$70).
Georgetown is ideal for retirees, families, and professionals seeking suburban tranquility with city access. Lower rents and a strong community make it a standout choice near Austin.
Georgetown Apartment Options
Georgetown’s rental market offers a mix of affordability and modern living, making it an attractive option near Austin. As of August 2025, the average rent in Georgetown stands at $1,289 per month. Nearly half (47%) of the properties are priced between $1,001 and $1,500, while 36% fall in the $1,501 to $2,000 range. Apartments here average 992 square feet, which is 21% smaller than the national average of $1,637 per month and reflects a 7% decrease in rent compared to the previous year. This pricing highlights the town’s balance of historic charm and modern conveniences.
The Summit at Rivery Park
Situated within a mixed-use development that includes retail and dining options, The Summit at Rivery Park provides a range of studio to three-bedroom apartments. Monthly rents for these units range from $1,009 to $1,924. Each apartment features chef-inspired kitchens, granite countertops, modern appliances, wood plank flooring, and in-unit washers and dryers. Community amenities are equally impressive, with a 24-hour fitness center, a resort-style infinity pool, a cyber lounge, a coffee and tea bar, a social lounge with a fire pit and gas grill, and a dedicated dog park.
Parallax at Georgetown
Parallax at Georgetown offers a boutique living experience, focusing on creating a modern community atmosphere. While specific rent details are not currently available, this property stands out for its emphasis on small-town accessibility paired with modern conveniences. Its location near Georgetown’s walkable downtown square makes it especially appealing to young professionals and families. Residents enjoy a peaceful neighborhood setting while staying connected to the vibrant local scene.
Retreat at Wolf Ranch
Located in the upscale Wolf Ranch area, the Retreat at Wolf Ranch offers a variety of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, as well as townhomes. Prices start at $1,065 for one-bedroom units, $1,400 for two-bedroom units, and $2,035 for three-bedroom apartments, with townhomes starting at $1,995. These residences come with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and access to a state-of-the-art fitness center. Additional amenities include a resort-style pool with lap lanes and on-site pet facilities. The Retreat at Wolf Ranch is also within walking distance of high-end shopping and dining and offers quick access to Georgetown’s trail system and outdoor recreational areas.
Georgetown Lifestyle and Activities
Georgetown strikes a delightful balance between its historic charm and modern conveniences, offering a lifestyle that’s both relaxed and engaging.
Walkable Downtown Living
The historic downtown square is the heart of Georgetown, where you can take care of errands, enjoy a meal, or catch live entertainment – all within a few blocks. For those who want to explore beyond the square, the Georgetown Convention and Visitors Bureau provides bike rentals, making it easy to discover downtown and nearby trails. The area has seen a surge in wine bars and locally owned businesses, adding a fresh energy to its historic roots. And if you’re looking to unwind, Georgetown’s outdoor spaces offer plenty of options to enhance your daily routine.
Parks and Trails
Outdoor enthusiasts will love the San Gabriel River trails, which wind through picturesque landscapes and connect neighborhoods to downtown. These scenic pathways are perfect for families biking and walking, as well as for professionals and retirees seeking exercise or relaxation. The city also hosts wellness events and maintains well-kept parks, encouraging an active lifestyle. But Georgetown isn’t just about outdoor fun – it also boasts a thriving cultural scene.
Shopping and Arts
Georgetown is alive with creativity and culture. The city’s Arts & Culture Board actively supports public art projects and provides grants to local arts organizations, enriching the community’s artistic spirit. The Palace Theatre is a hub for live performances, while downtown art festivals and gallery events keep the cultural calendar full. Art is woven into everyday life here, with initiatives like utility box murals and rotating exhibits at the public library. History buffs can visit the Williamson Museum, housed in the historic Farmers State Bank building. Admission is free, and the museum is open Wednesday through Friday (12 pm–5 pm) and Saturday (10 am–5 pm).
Georgetown seamlessly blends its outdoor beauty and cultural offerings, creating a well-rounded and vibrant community.
Getting to Austin and Beyond
Georgetown’s location, just 30 miles north of Austin, makes it a prime spot for those seeking a peaceful suburban lifestyle with easy access to Austin’s vibrant city life.
Daily Commute to Austin
Traveling from Georgetown to Austin usually takes 45 minutes to 1 hour by car. However, during rush hours, travel times may increase. Thankfully, residents have a variety of transportation options to suit their needs.
Driving is the go-to choice for most commuters, costing around $5 to $8 per trip. Several major highways, including MoPac Express Lane, SH 130, U.S. 183, and U.S. 290, help ease the drive, especially during peak traffic.
For those who prefer public transportation, the CARTS Interurban Coach offers a budget-friendly solution with fares ranging from $2 to $6 one way. This service operates between Georgetown and Austin twice daily, Monday through Friday, and takes about 45 minutes.
Georgetown also provides rideGTX, a partnership with Uber and zTrip, offering 24/7 rideshare services. Costs for these rides range from $30 to $70, depending on the time and distance.
Here’s a quick comparison of commute options:
| Transportation Option | Commute Time | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Driving | 45 minutes – 1 hour | $5 – $8 |
| CARTS Bus | 45 minutes | $2 – $6 |
| Rideshare (Uber) | 40 – 60 minutes | $30 – $70 |
| Taxi | 45 minutes – 1 hour | $90 – $110 |
These options ensure that Georgetown residents can easily connect to Austin, whether for work or leisure.
Suburban Living with City Access
Georgetown offers the best of both worlds: the charm of a quiet suburban community and the convenience of being close to a bustling metropolitan area. Tree-lined streets, welcoming neighbors, and a slower pace of life define Georgetown, but Austin’s thriving job market, entertainment scene, and attractions are always within reach.
In 2024, the City of Georgetown and Capital Metro updated the Transit Development Plan to address the growing mobility needs of the community. This plan highlighted gaps in current services and proposed ways to enhance access to economic opportunities, healthcare, and other vital resources in areas not currently served by CapMetro.
This focus on improving transportation reflects Georgetown’s dedication to staying connected to Austin while maintaining its unique identity. Whether you’re commuting daily or visiting Austin for its many attractions, Georgetown offers the freedom to enjoy both suburban tranquility and urban excitement.
Beyond Austin, Georgetown’s connectivity extends across Central Texas. CapMetro links Georgetown to nearby cities like Leander, Round Rock, and Manor, making it an ideal home base for exploring the region while enjoying the peace of a smaller community.
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Who Should Consider Georgetown?
Georgetown’s mix of historic charm and modern conveniences makes it an appealing choice for a variety of residents. Over the past few years, the city has seen a population increase of more than 10%, driven by people seeking a high quality of life without the hefty price tag of larger cities. This balance of affordability and charm makes Georgetown a standout option for many.
Retirees and Families
Retirees are drawn to Georgetown for its calm atmosphere and reasonable cost of living. The city’s median age is higher than the Texas average, reflecting its popularity among those looking for a quieter lifestyle with access to essential amenities. For instance, Blue Hole Park, a scenic spot near downtown, offers a peaceful retreat with its river-fed swimming area and walking trails.
For families, Georgetown delivers on safety, a strong community feel, and plenty of outdoor spaces. The historic downtown square, often called "the prettiest square in Texas", is a family favorite, featuring local shops and restaurants that cater to both parents and kids. With rents dropping by 7% over the past year, the city has become even more attractive for families managing household expenses. Modern apartment complexes like The Summit at Rivery Park and Parallax at Georgetown offer the kind of upscale amenities you’d expect in a big city but at a more accessible price point.
Working Professionals
For working professionals, Georgetown strikes a great balance between suburban peace and urban convenience. Young professionals and remote workers are increasingly choosing this city for its relaxed pace and proximity to Austin. The commute to Austin, which typically takes 45 minutes to an hour, is manageable for those who work in the capital but prefer a quieter home base. Georgetown’s newer luxury developments cater to this group, offering high-end living spaces at costs significantly lower than similar options in Austin.
Whether you’re planning your retirement, raising a family, or looking for a better work-life balance, Georgetown offers a rare blend of community, affordability, and convenience. It’s a place where you can enjoy outdoor adventures, build meaningful connections, and still stay close to career opportunities and city amenities. In Central Texas, Georgetown truly stands out as a place to thrive.
Georgetown Pros and Cons
Let’s take a closer look at the upsides and challenges of renting in Georgetown.
Benefits vs. Drawbacks
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable rental market – Average rent is below the Austin-Round Rock Metro Area average | Higher cost of living – About 8.3% above the national average |
| Lower everyday expenses – Groceries are 5–10% cheaper, and healthcare costs are 8% less | Transportation costs – Roughly 13% higher than the national average due to limited public transit options |
| Historic downtown charm and a strong community vibe, paired with access to urban conveniences | Higher home prices – The average home costs $437,000, which is 25% above the national average |
| Strong earning potential – Median household income is around $73,800 | Sales tax – A rate of 8.25% increases shopping costs |
This breakdown highlights the financial landscape for renters in Georgetown. While the overall cost of living is slightly above the national average, rental prices remain relatively affordable compared to the broader Austin-Round Rock area. Everyday expenses like groceries and healthcare are also easier on the wallet, providing some balance to the higher costs in other areas.
Even with pricier housing and transportation, renters in Georgetown can still find value. Affordable rents, combined with lower day-to-day expenses and solid earning opportunities, make it an appealing option for many.
Making Your Georgetown Move
Georgetown blends small-town charm with modern conveniences, making it a standout choice among Austin-area suburbs. With its lively downtown and expanding rental options, the city appeals to retirees, families, and professionals looking for a slower pace without giving up comfort.
From a financial perspective, Georgetown offers a promising situation for renters. While the cost of living is about 8% higher than the national average, the median household income of approximately $87,400 makes it manageable for many residents to afford rent comfortably. The city’s population grew by nearly 13% between 2020 and 2021, reflecting its growing popularity. This surge has led to the development of new apartments and amenities, all while maintaining the community’s unique character and charm.
Get Help Finding Your Georgetown Apartment
Navigating your move to Georgetown can be much easier with the right resources. Apartment locators are a great tool – they provide updated listings, help schedule tours, and assist with applications. Best of all, these services are typically free for renters since locators earn commissions from property management companies.
For those moving to the Austin area, including Georgetown, Taco Street Locating offers personalized apartment-finding services. Their team handles everything from creating detailed research spreadsheets to scheduling tours and guiding you through the application process, making your apartment search smoother and more efficient.
Before diving into your search, it’s important to establish your budget, desired move-in date, preferred neighborhood, and must-have amenities. A good rule of thumb is to follow the 28% guideline – your monthly rent and utilities should stay within 28% of your annual income. To streamline your decision-making, schedule multiple apartment tours on the same day. Georgetown’s compact layout makes it easy to visit several communities in a single afternoon. With the right planning and support, your move to Georgetown can be both straightforward and stress-free.
FAQs
What makes renting in Georgetown a better option than living in Austin?
Renting in Georgetown comes with plenty of perks compared to living in Austin. First off, rents and overall living expenses are easier on the wallet, making it an appealing option for retirees, professionals, and families seeking a mix of comfort and affordability. Georgetown stands out with its historic downtown, picturesque parks, and welcoming community, offering a slower, more laid-back vibe compared to Austin’s fast-paced lifestyle.
But it’s not just about saving money – Georgetown delivers a lifestyle that’s hard to beat. With walkable streets, lively festivals, and outdoor adventures along the San Gabriel River, it offers the perfect blend of suburban living and small-town charm. Plus, it’s just a 35–45 minute drive to Austin, so you can easily commute or enjoy the city’s entertainment scene. If you’re after a place that combines comfort, a strong sense of community, and easy access to the city, Georgetown could be just what you’re looking for.
Is Georgetown, TX an affordable place to live, and what should renters keep in mind when planning their budget?
Georgetown, TX, stands out for its affordability, with a cost of living roughly 8–11% below the national average. This makes it an appealing choice for individuals and families seeking a budget-friendly lifestyle without compromising on quality. Renters, in particular, benefit from lower costs in housing, utilities, and transportation compared to many other parts of the U.S.
If you’re planning to move to Georgetown, it’s essential to account for key expenses like rent, utility bills, and commuting – especially if you’re traveling to Austin, which is about a 35–45 minute drive away. Don’t forget to include leisure activities in your budget, as Georgetown offers plenty to enjoy, from its scenic parks and vibrant festivals to its charming historic downtown. Combining affordability with a welcoming suburban atmosphere, Georgetown provides a comfortable lifestyle just a short drive from Austin.
What are the commuting options from Georgetown to Austin, and how do they fit into daily life?
Georgetown residents commuting to Austin have a variety of options tailored to different needs. Driving remains a top choice, thanks to the straightforward access to I-35 and nearby toll roads. Depending on traffic, the trip typically takes about 35–45 minutes. For those looking for public transportation, CARTS bus services offer an affordable and reliable way to travel between the two cities. If flexibility is key, rideshare services like Uber provide a private and convenient alternative.
These choices make it easier for residents to balance the relaxed vibe of Georgetown with the opportunities Austin has to offer. Whether you value cost-effectiveness, comfort, or flexibility, there’s a commuting solution to fit your lifestyle.
