Best Neighborhoods to Live in Round Rock, TX
Considering buying your first home? Round Rock, TX, could be your perfect start!
Just north of Austin, this thriving city boasts a variety of neighborhoods suitable for every lifestyle—from bustling family communities to serene enclaves.
Whether you're a young professional, retiree, or starting a family, Round Rock has something to offer. Let's explore some top neighborhoods like Teravista, Forest Creek, and more, helping you find your ideal home.
Why Choose Round Rock, TX?
Round Rock is a fast-growing city known for safe streets, great schools, and affordable living—making it a top pick for first-time buyers.
Fast-Growing City: Round Rock is consistently ranked as one of the fastest-growing areas in Texas, thanks to job opportunities at major employers like Dell.
Reasonable Cost of Living: Compared to Austin, Round Rock’s housing prices and daily expenses are more budget-friendly.
Great Schools: Round Rock ISD is well-regarded for strong academics, which is a big plus if you’re planning to start or grow a family.
Easy Access to Austin: Commuting is straightforward—reach downtown Austin in about 20 minutes.
Community Feel: Round Rock blends small-town charm with modern conveniences like shopping centers, parks, and a diverse food scene.
If you’re a first-time homebuyer who wants more space without leaving behind urban perks, Round Rock might be your sweet spot.
Teravista: Golf and Family Vibes
Teravista is ideal for families who love an active lifestyle and want a range of home prices.
Why It’s Great for First-Time Buyers
Community Amenities: Teravista is a master-planned neighborhood centered around an 18-hole golf course. You’ll find multiple pools, trails, and parks like Hidden View.
Housing Options: Homes range from budget-friendly properties in the $300,000s to more luxurious options near $700,000.
Top-Rated Schools: Teravista Elementary (in the Round Rock ISD) often attracts families looking for quality education close to home.
Proximity to Downtown: Located around five miles northeast of downtown Round Rock, you’ll have a short drive to restaurants and shops.
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Forest Creek: Luxury Meets Tranquility
Forest Creek suits buyers seeking larger homes, a peaceful setting, and plenty of upscale amenities.
Highlights
Upscale Housing: Homes span 2,000 to 6,000 square feet, starting around $450,000 and climbing toward $1 million.
On-Site Perks: Enjoy a junior Olympic pool, tennis courts, and nearby Forest Creek Golf Club.
Relaxed Setting: Quiet, tree-lined streets make this a retreat while still being near essentials like HEB and Starbucks.
Strong Schools: Students often attend top-rated Ridgeview Middle, appealing to buyers wanting academic excellence.
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Brushy Creek: Suburban Sweet Spot
Brushy Creek is an established neighborhood perfect for those who want more space and easy access to outdoor recreation.
What You’ll Love
Established Community: This area dates back to the 1970s and features mature trees and larger lots.
Versatile Homes: Prices range from $350,000 to $600,000, offering options for varying budgets and lifestyles.
Great for Outdoors: Four parks, heated pools, and the Brushy Creek Regional Trail make it ideal if you love hiking, biking, or walking your dog.
Close to Work & Play: Minutes from Round Rock’s Old Settlers Park and near Austin’s evolving tech corridor.
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Lake Forest: Safe and Stately
Lake Forest offers a quieter, more private setting with large homes and a strong reputation for safety.
Why Consider It
Larger Homes: Expect homes ranging from 2,200 to 5,000 square feet, generally priced between $500,000 and $800,000.
HOA Benefits: The homeowner’s association maintains a pool, park, and tennis courts.
Family-Friendly: Many residents love the low traffic and top-notch schools like Blackland Prairie Elementary.
Convenient Location: Shopping and dining are a short drive away, ensuring you’re never too far from essentials.
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Behrens Ranch: Community and Convenience
Behrens Ranch appeals to first-time buyers who want a warm community spirit close to stores and top schools.
Neighborhood Perks
Mid-Range Prices: Homes range from about $400,000 to $700,000, typically sized between 2,000 and 3,500 square feet.
Social Atmosphere: Parks, a community pool, and friendly neighbors create a welcoming environment.
High-Rated Schools: Elsa England Elementary and other Round Rock ISD schools often receive top marks.
Prime Location: Quick access to grocery stores, eateries, and Round Rock’s 620 corridor for easy commuting.
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Comparing the Top Neighborhoods
Below is a quick look at how these top neighborhoods to live in Round Rock, TX stack up. Home prices are general estimates; always check listings for the most up-to-date information.
| Neighborhood | Avg. Home Price | Key Amenities | School Rating | Distance to Downtown |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Teravista | $300k–$700k | Golf, pools, trails | A | 5 miles |
| Forest Creek | $450k–$1M | Golf, pool, tennis | A- | 7 miles |
| Brushy Creek | $350k–$600k | Parks, pools, trails | A- | 3 miles |
| Lake Forest | $500k–$800k | Pool, park, tennis | A | 4 miles |
| Behrens Ranch | $400k–$700k | Parks, pool | A+ | 6 miles |
Schools in these neighborhoods belong to Round Rock ISD, known for its strong academic programs.
What to Look for in a Round Rock Neighborhood
Focus on your budget, lifestyle, commute, school needs, and desired vibe to make the right choice.
Budget
Homes start around $300,000 in some areas and can exceed $700,000 or $1 million in more upscale neighborhoods.
Keep an eye on property taxes and HOA fees, which can vary by community.
Lifestyle
Golf enthusiasts might prefer Teravista or Forest Creek.
If you love parks and trails, consider Brushy Creek or Behrens Ranch.
Commute
Areas near I-35 (like Brushy Creek) shorten drive times to Austin and local employers like Dell.
Factor in daily travel to work, school, or shopping before deciding.
Schools
All featured communities have strong schools, though Behrens Ranch typically ranks highest.
If you have children or plan to start a family soon, school quality could be a key factor.
Neighborhood Vibe
Want more peace and quiet? Look at Lake Forest.
Prefer a friendly, bustling atmosphere? Try Teravista or Behrens Ranch.
Honorable Mentions
These neighborhoods may not top every list, but they could be a good fit depending on your needs:
Sonoma: Family-friendly area in the $400k–$600k range, with community pools and walking trails.
Round Rock West: Established neighborhood with larger lots, typically priced $350k–$500k, great for those who want a more traditional feel.
Paloma Lake: Offers a lakeside lifestyle, with home prices from $400k to $800k, perfect if you enjoy fishing or boating.
Living Costs in Round Rock Neighborhoods
Round Rock is generally more affordable than Austin, with a range of living costs based on neighborhood and home size.
While the city’s median home price (about $330,000) is lower than Austin’s, popular neighborhoods can range from $350k to $1M. Rents hover around $1,500–$2,000 per month. Utilities and taxes are relatively moderate for Central Texas, often totaling $200–$300 monthly for a family home.
Cost Breakdown Table (Monthly, 2025 Estimates)
| Expense | Teravista | Forest Creek | Brushy Creek | Lake Forest | Behrens Ranch |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mortgage (Avg.) | $1,800 | $2,200 | $1,600 | $2,000 | $1,900 |
| Utilities | $250 | $275 | $225 | $260 | $240 |
| HOA Fees | $50–$100 | $60–$120 | $30–$80 | $75–$150 | $40–$90 |
These figures can vary based on interest rates, your specific property, and updates to local tax rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best neighborhood for families in Round Rock?
Behrens Ranch or Brushy Creek—both offer excellent schools, multiple parks, and a friendly environment.Are Round Rock neighborhoods safe?
Yes. Round Rock is known for low crime rates. Lake Forest and Teravista, in particular, often receive high marks for safety.Which neighborhood has the best schools?
Behrens Ranch typically stands out with top A+ ratings, but all these neighborhoods benefit from Round Rock ISD.How far are these areas from Austin?
Drive times range between 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and exact location. Brushy Creek is typically closest (about 15–20 minutes).What’s the most affordable top neighborhood?
Brushy Creek often starts around $350,000, a bit lower than some of the other neighborhoods’ entry prices.Do these areas have HOAs?
Yes, fees usually range from $30 to $150 per month. They cover community amenities like pools, parks, and landscaping.Can I golf in these neighborhoods?
Teravista and Forest Creek both feature popular golf courses, offering public access and resident benefits.How’s the commute to Dell?
It’s quick—anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes, as Dell’s headquarters is located right in Round Rock.Are there parks nearby?
Absolutely. Old Settlers Park is close to many neighborhoods, and each area has its own green spaces.What’s the overall vibe?
Round Rock offers a laid-back suburban feel with plenty of community events, all while being close to the energy of Austin.
