• Leasing 101
• Neighborhoods
• Parent Resources
• Parent Resources
• Reward Card Program

Balcones Hills

Overview

Balcones Hills, located west of Loop 1 and bordered on the west by Lake Austin, is a wonderful combination of all of the qualities that make west Austin so attractive. Rolling hills, beautiful water-front subdivisions, several outstanding public parks, and a diverse mix of architectural styles make for a neighborhood that's enormously attractive to families and professionals looking to come home and relax after a stressful day Downtown. It's easy to get lost in the expansive hills just west of Balcones Drive, and the small neighborhood streets are among the most in-demand in Austin.

Balcones Hills can be divided into several smaller sections, including the lake-front subdivisions to the west (such as The Island), the expansive military base Camp Mabry to the east, and a neighborhood of smaller single family homes surrounding Balcones Drive. Along the lake there are homes of every description, ranging from older homes built by early Balcones Hills residents to enormous custom homes built on large lots overlooking Lake Austin and the 360 bridge. To the east, many more modest homes are occupied by families eager to send their children to the blue-ribbon award winning Highland Park Elementary, one of AISD's best schools.

This neighborhood's location permits easy access to virtually any part of Austin. A quick drive out F.M. 2222 gives residents access to Capitol of Texas Highway and spots like the Austin Country Club and Wild Basin Wilderness Park, and Downtown and UT Campus are only a short ride south on Loop 1.

What to do

Expansive neighborhood parks are one of Balcones Hills' primary attractions. Perhaps the most popular is the Mt. Bonnell lookout, technically located in Covert Park, which is a great spot for a picnic or some late-afternoon relaxation. The sunset overlooking Lake Austin is one of the best in Austin, and this is also a great place to check out at night, with beautiful views of the lakefront properties and the Austin skyline. Mt. Bonnell is a famous Austin spot that, despite being enormously popular, is just as beautiful as it was before the neighborhood became so developed. Two other beautiful outdoor spaces include Mayfield Park and Preserve, which offers nature trails, lake views, and free-roaming peacocks, and the much smaller Perry Park, a former limestone quarry that features beautiful geological formations and wooded areas.

Despite being a primarily residential neighborhood, several small commercial areas offer dining, retail, and office space for Balcones Hills' residents. Chez Zee American Bistro, which blends French and Cajun inspired cooking with an outstanding pastry kitchen, is a hugely popular neighborhood spot, and is a great place to enjoy wine, appetizers, or some late-night dessert. Another local favorite is Russell's Bakery and Coffee Bar, where neighborhood families can be found grabbing a cup of coffee on their way to work and school. Russell's also offers beautiful custom cakes for special events, including weddings.

Why live here?

Balcones Hills is an excellent neighborhood in which to raise a family, and is ideal for those interested in the outdoors. Being located just west of the central city is perfect for those who work downtown but want a quiet, relaxing environment to come home to. For families, professionals, and lake-goers, Balcones Hills is an excellent choice.

Quick Facts

Household Income

$67,901

Recent Job Growth

2.73%

Median Home Value

$585,000

Median Home Age

27

Appreciation (2007)

4.05%

Percentage Renting

41.96%

Contact

Austin Web Design & Internet Development by Your Marque