Round Rock and Cedar Park are two cities that are constantly being compared. But which one should you choose to call home? As someone who’s lived in both places, I can tell you there’s no easy answer. It’s like trying to pick your favorite kid (don’t worry, we won’t tell them).
Let me tell you something interesting; despite being neighbors, these cities march to the beat of very different drums. Kind of like those twins you knew in high school who looked identical but couldn’t be more different. So, how do you decide between Round Rock and Cedar Park? Fasten your seatbelt; it’s time to dive into the distinct vibes that set each city apart.
Table of Contents:
- Overview of Round Rock and Cedar Park
- Job Opportunities and Economic Growth
- Education and Schools
- Housing and Cost of Living
- Transportation and Commute
- Outdoor Recreation and Amenities
- Community Events and Attractions
- Healthcare and Medical Facilities
- Conclusion
Overview of Round Rock and Cedar Park
If you’re considering a move to the booming Austin area, two cities that should be on your radar are Round Rock and Cedar Park. Both located just north of downtown Austin, these cities offer a fantastic blend of suburban charm and urban convenience. Round Rock and Cedar Park are both situated in Williamson County, one of the fastest-growing counties in the nation. Round Rock is located about 20 miles north of downtown Austin, while Cedar Park is just a bit further out, around 20 miles northwest of the city center.
Population and Demographics
Both cities have seen significant growth in recent years. As of 2021, Round Rock’s population was estimated at 133,381, while Cedar Park’s was 81,591. The demographics of both cities are diverse, with a mix of young professionals, families, and retirees.
Brief History and Development
Round Rock and Cedar Park have rich histories dating back to the mid-1800s. However, it wasn’t until the 1990s and 2000s that both cities experienced a surge in development and population growth. Today, they are thriving communities with strong economies and plenty of amenities.
Job Opportunities and Economic Growth
One of the biggest draws of Round Rock and Cedar Park is their strong job market. Both cities have seen significant economic growth in recent years, partly due to their proximity to Austin’s booming tech scene. Round Rock is home to several major employers, including Dell Technologies, Emerson Automation Solutions, and Round Rock Independent School District. Cedar Park’s top employers include Dana Incorporated, Firefly Space Systems, and Corvalent.
Unemployment Rates
As of March 2023, the unemployment rate in the Round Rock metropolitan area was 2.8%, well below the national average. Cedar Park’s unemployment rate is similarly low, a testament to the strong job market in both cities.
Future Economic Prospects
With their strong economies and proximity to Austin, both Round Rock and Cedar Park are well-positioned for continued growth in the coming years. In fact, Round Rock was recently named one of the top cities in the nation for projected job growth over the next five years.
Education and Schools
For families with school-aged children, education is a top priority when choosing a place to live. Fortunately, both Round Rock and Cedar Park have excellent public school systems. Round Rock is served by the Round Rock Independent School District, which consistently ranks among the best in the state. Cedar Park is part of the Leander Independent School District, another highly-rated school system.
Private School Options
In addition to public schools, both cities offer a variety of private school options, including faith-based and Montessori schools. Some notable private schools in the area include Round Rock Christian Academy and Summit Christian Academy.
Higher Education Institutions
For those seeking higher education, the Round Rock and Cedar Park area is home to several colleges and universities, including Texas State University Round Rock Campus and Austin Community College Round Rock Campus.
Housing and Cost of Living
When it comes to housing and cost of living, Round Rock and Cedar Park offer a more affordable alternative to living in the heart of Austin. As of March 2023, the median home price in Round Rock was $445,333, while in Cedar Park it was $505,210. While these prices are higher than the national average, they are still lower than many parts of Austin.
Rental Market
For those who prefer to rent, both cities offer a variety of apartment complexes and rental homes. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Round Rock is around $1,300, while in Cedar Park it’s slightly higher at $1,400.
Cost of Living Comparison
Overall, the cost of living in Round Rock and Cedar Park is slightly higher than the national average, but still more affordable than living in Austin proper. According to BestPlaces.net, the cost of living index for Round Rock is 105.6, while for Cedar Park it’s 117.4 (with the national average being 100).
Transportation and Commute
One potential downside of living in Round Rock or Cedar Park is the commute into Austin, which can be lengthy during peak traffic times. Both cities are served by major highways, including Interstate 35 and State Highway 45. However, these roads can become heavily congested during rush hour.
Public Transportation Options
Public transportation options in Round Rock and Cedar Park are somewhat limited. The Capital Metro bus system does offer some routes from the cities into Austin, but service is not as extensive as in the city center.
Commute Times
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the average commute time for Round Rock residents is around 27 minutes, while for Cedar Park residents it’s about 29 minutes. However, these times can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions.
Outdoor Recreation and Amenities
One of the biggest draws of living in Round Rock or Cedar Park is the abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities and amenities. Both cities boast extensive park systems, with dozens of parks and miles of trails for hiking, biking, and picnicking. Some notable parks include Round Rock’s Old Settlers Park and Cedar Park’s Brushy Creek Lake Park.
Golf Courses
For golf enthusiasts, both cities offer several top-rated courses. Round Rock is home to the Forest Creek Golf Club, while Cedar Park boasts the Twin Creeks Country Club.
Other Recreational Facilities
In addition to parks and golf courses, Round Rock and Cedar Park offer a variety of other recreational facilities, including swimming pools, sports complexes, and community centers.
Community Events and Attractions
Round Rock and Cedar Park both have vibrant community cultures, with plenty of events and attractions throughout the year. Some notable annual events in Round Rock include the Round Rock Chalk Walk and Arts Festival and the Diwali Festival. In Cedar Park, popular events include the Cedar Park Rodeo and the Fable Fest.
Live Music Venues
While not as extensive as Austin’s famous live music scene, both Round Rock and Cedar Park offer several venues for catching live performances. The Round Rock Amphitheater hosts concerts throughout the summer, while the H-E-B Center at Cedar Park is a popular venue for music and comedy shows.
Sports Teams and Stadiums
Sports fans will find plenty to cheer about in Round Rock and Cedar Park. Round Rock is home to the Round Rock Express, a minor league baseball team affiliated with the Texas Rangers. The team plays at the Dell Diamond stadium. Cedar Park, meanwhile, is home to the Texas Stars, a minor league hockey team affiliated with the Dallas Stars.
Healthcare and Medical Facilities
Access to quality healthcare is another important factor to consider when choosing a place to live. Fortunately, both Round Rock and Cedar Park have excellent medical facilities. Round Rock is home to several top-rated hospitals, including Ascension Seton Williamson and Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Round Rock. Cedar Park is served by the Cedar Park Regional Medical Center, a full-service hospital with a 24-hour emergency room.
Specialized Medical Services
In addition to general hospitals, both cities offer a variety of specialized medical services, including pediatrics, women’s health, and orthopedics. The Baylor Scott & White Round Rock Clinic is a popular choice for specialized care.
Emergency Care Options
For emergency care, both cities have several options. In addition to the emergency rooms at the main hospitals, there are also several freestanding emergency centers and urgent care clinics throughout the area.
Conclusion
So, Round Rock vs Cedar Park – which city comes out on top? The truth is, it depends on what you’re looking for. Round Rock offers a robust job market, top-notch schools, and plenty of entertainment options. Cedar Park, on the other hand, boasts affordable housing, a strong sense of community, and easy access to outdoor recreation.
At the end of the day, both cities have their pros and cons. It’s like choosing between pizza and tacos – there’s no wrong answer, but you’ve got to go with your gut. Whether you’re drawn to Round Rock’s bustling energy or Cedar Park’s laid-back charm, one thing’s for sure: you’ll be part of a thriving, welcoming community.
If you’re considering moving to either Round Rock or Cedar Park, let our relocation specialist navigate you as you make the move. Submit the form below and one of our experts will get in touch with you!
