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East Austin

Overview

East Austin is among Austin's most diverse and interesting areas, and in recent years has changed rapidly to meet the needs of Austin's rapidly expanding population. Bolstered by city initiatives and large-scale development and remodeling, this neighborhood, once home exclusively to small bungalows and local businesses, has attracted countless new businesses, city funding for public works, and a flock of homeowners eager to capitalize on affordable sites to build. Now, especially in the area just east of IH-35, you can find new condos and fine-dining restaurants next door to aging neighborhood bars and 1920s bungalows.

The East Austin area has several distinct areas that reflect the rapid changes in the area. The 11th street district, home to some of East Austin's oldest local businesses and homes, is now a hot-spot for developers, restaurateurs, and artists. The beautiful mural depicting musicians and local artists across the street from the new Wells Fargo Tower embodies the progressive spirit of the area. Just south of 11th street, the Garden District (South of Cesar Chavez and bordering Town Lake) is the classic image of east Austin, with charming 20s and 30s bungalows close to the lake, and a diverse mix of young people, long-time residents, and out-of-towners ready to remodel. Just north of 11th street is the new Central City Entertainment Center, a conversion of an old vacant shopping area into a family entertainment complex, which caters to the needs of area residents with a roller rink, soft-play area, and movie theater right on Rosewood.

These thriving neighborhoods are just a few examples of the striking diversity of people and businesses in the area. East Austin is an exciting and vibrant community that, virtually overnight, has transformed into one of the hottest real estate zones in town, with real estate interests large and small eager to improve the neighborhood. With excellent proximity to Downtown, the major freeways, and cultural and entertainment opportunities, the explosion of interest in the area is understandable. Though conflicts have certainly emerged between local residents and those coming into the area (property taxes are the main issue), it's clear that as the city, native residents, and newcomers solves some of these problems the neighborhood will continue to grow in popularity. Check out East Austin Stories, a project undertaken by the University of Texas at Austin, for more information about local landmarks, interviews with native residents, and an accurate record of the remarkable changes taking place in East Austin.

What to do

East Austin is bursting at the seams with public spaces, including parks, community gardens, and schools. As far as parks, the Rosewood Park Pool and Rec Center, which features a variety of outdoor spaces for sports and recreation as well as a pool open during the summer months, is among the best in the neighborhood. Other smaller parks include the Comal Park, Pan Am Park, and Zaragosa Park, all located just north or south of East 7th street. The areas largest outdoor recreation area, Fiesta Gardens, is home to festivals, special events, and city functions, and is located on a beautiful plot in the garden district directly on Town Lake. The view is excellent and this location perfectly captures the wonder of the East Side: being close to downtown while experiencing authentic local culture. For a truly unique slice of East Side life, check out El Jardin Alegre, which in addition to being a sustainable food center and local community garden has the best mural in Austin according to the Austin Chronicle.

The area is also home to one of Austin's most beautiful cemeteries. The oldest in Austin, the Oakwood Cemetery, dates to the mid-1850s, and spreads over 40 acres. It includes sections dedicated to the city's black, Latino, and Jewish populations, and local legend states that among the first people buried here were victims of a Comanche attack laid to rest on the hill.

The area's most concentrated entertainment district is located along 11th street, with restaurants, bars, and community attractions. Some of the oldest businesses in the area include the famous Ben's Longbranch BBQ, which has some of the best Texas BBQ in the city and attracts a diverse crowd of locals and Downtown business people, and Gene's New Orleans Style Restaurant, an awesome lunch spot with Cajun home cooking such as pork chops and poboys. Nearby, a more upscale dining spot is Ms. B's Authentic Creole, and their elegant dining room and friendly service make it a popular spot for a weekend outing. Just south on E. 7th street are several other awesome restaurants, including one of the best local Mexican spots in town: Los Comales Restaurant. This authentic local restaurant is family owned and operated, and their food and margaritas will have you coming back. Ciscos Bakery and Bar is an awesome spot for a leisurely breakfast, with some of the Best Migas in town and a diverse and lively clientele that keeps coming back.

For anyone interested in the arts, East Austin is among the most important places to visit, with galleries, shops, and events that hold their own against their Downtown competitors. The center for everything art in the neighborhood, check out the East Austin Studio Tour, which connects local artists, galleries, and art lovers for tours of the variety of great local art that the east side has to offer. Their website contains tons of information about galleries, a map of the area, and information about upcoming events. For live performances, check out the East First Garden Theater, the historic Victory Grill & Kovac Theater, or the Eastside Lounge, which offer local music ranging from blues to rock to classical as well as theater and dance performances.

Why live here?

If you're a young family moving to Austin, a student looking for housing that's a bit more affordable, or a lover or vibrant local culture, East Austin is the place to be. With art galleries, restaurants, parks, community spaces, shopping, and more, there's always something to do, and to live so close to Downtown and major roadways makes living on the East side convenient too.

Quick Facts

Household Income

$26,889

Recent Job Growth

2.73%

Median Home Value

$275,000

Median Home Age

49

Appreciation (2007)

10.89%

Percentage Renting

49.76%

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