Austin is undeniably one of the coolest metropolitan cities in the United States. The people, culture, music, events, and technology are some of the biggest factors that contribute to Austin being a one-of-a-kind city that is great for everyone!
Each neighborhood in Austin is unique to its own and can accommodate any type of lifestyle, but of course, there are areas within the city that are considered to be the hippiest and coolest neighborhoods due to the amenities, entertainment districts, shopping, dining, and event venues.
We have created a list of the coolest neighborhoods in Austin, so if you’re looking for a guide to explore the vibrant and eclectic neighborhoods in the city, this is the right blog you can get started with!
1. Downtown Austin
Tall skyscraper buildings and the center of lively lifestyles, nothing beats Downtown Austin’s entertainment districts, trendy shops, music venues, and vibrant nightlife. Downtown Austin has become the mecca of cool and comfort where highrise residential buildings stand as well as home to outstanding local restaurants and bustling bars are. Some of the well-known entertainment districts in the area are 6th Street, Rainey Street, Seaholm District, and Warehouse District.
6th Street, also known as Dirty Sixth, offers that quirky, funky vibe that is always alive at night. Rainey Street was once a residential turned commercial booming neighborhood popular with tourists. Another neighborhood with new developments where new residential and commercial buildings are awaited to rise is Seaholm District. It was first an abandoned power plant now turned into a treasure within Downtown Austin. Warehouse District emerged into becoming one of the thriving areas downtown where most award-winning hotels are located.
Downtown Austin is also home to the tallest residential skyscrapers in Austin such as The Independent, The Austonian, and 360 Condominiums. There are more residences and condos in downtown that will suit your lifestyle such as Natiivo Austin, Austin Proper Residences, and Seaholm Residences.
2. Cherrywood
Cherrywood is located in the heart of Austin and is one of the most desirable neighborhoods in East Austin. This quiet, charming, and growing neighborhood is largely residential, however, is also home to businesses such as restaurants, coffee shops, and grocery stores.
In this area, you’ll find Craftsman-style homes, bungalows, ranch-style homes, and other types of modern home styles. Due to its close proximity to schools and the University of Texas – Austin, the area consists of a mix of professionals, students, faculty workers, and retirees. Cherrywood boasts a variety of restaurants, cafes, and amenities. The neighborhood is also one of the most walkable areas in Austin because of its close proximity to essential stores and schools.
3. Hyde Park
This hip, laid-back, picturesque neighborhood is home to students, professionals, and adventure lovers. Many homes and commercial establishments in Hyde Park are preserved. During your visit, you’ll be able to find homes with eye-catching details with uniquely styled features such as Victorian homes and estate homes built for affluent families, though new residential builds in Hyde Park are now developed towards the middle class. Entertainment and dining hot spots are located by Lamar Blvd, Airport Blvd, and Guadalupe.
4. North Loop
North Loop is a funky and active neighborhood that is popular among families, students, creatives, and young professionals. It’s similarly related to Hyde Park due to the same feel and convenience it provides to its residents. Homes in North Loop were built in the 1940s and some of them were recently remodeled into contemporary homes.
Multifamily homes in this neighborhood are also popular. There are a number of quirky coffee shops, bookstores, vintage stores, and local restaurants within the area. North Loop was formerly the flight path for the old Austin Airport and is now one of the coolest neighborhoods to visit and live in Austin.
5. North University
A south-ought neighborhood among the faculty and students from the University of Texas. North University has a historic yet cool kid vibe with close proximity to every Austinite’s favorite coffee shops, restaurants, and bookstores. This walkable neighborhood is home to charming craftsman homes, bungalow homes, and condos.
North University is just a couple of minutes away from “The Drag”, a section in Guadalupe St where residents can enjoy old-school establishments and cool spots to eat, drink, and socialize.
6. South Austin
South Austin is the trendiest and hottest area in Austin. Neighborhoods within South Austin are one of the most desirable places to live because of their close proximity to parks, greenbelt, swimming holes, and schools. The area embodies the “Keep Austin Weird” feel and is known for its vibrant music scene and hippy vibes. If you are looking for an area where you can explore and relax at the same time, South Austin has plenty to offer.
South Congress, SoCo, is one of the popular areas in South Austin with a stretch of chic boutiques and groovy bars that can be found. Travis Heights is one of the older neighborhoods in Austin that is affluent and exclusive. Bouldin Creek is an ideal neighborhood for young professionals, creatives, and families because of its walkability, convenient location to stores, and local attractions. The neighborhood of Zilker has something to offer to suit most of everyone’s lifestyle. From being able to maintain fitness activities to attending large music festivals in the area.
7. West Lake Hills
This independent suburb was incorporated in 1953 and is popular for its hilly terrain and quiet residential area. Westlake is located six miles to the west of Downtown Austin. The neighborhood offers a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of the big city though convenient if you plan on taking a trip downtown and nearby attractions and employers.
Most homes for sale in West Lake Hills were built in the 70s and 80s while there are also homes that are newly built and feature scenic views of downtown’s skyline as well as easy access to the 227-acre habitat and three miles of hiking trails in Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve.
Have you found an ideal neighborhood in Austin to visit or relocate to? Learn more about the coolest neighborhood in Austin by speaking to a relocation specialist! Fill out the form and let’s get in touch!
