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North Loop/Hyde Park

Overview

Hyde Park is the quintessential old-Austin neighborhood, and its laid-back vibe, beautiful tree-shaded avenues, and wealth of outstanding local businesses make this one of Central Austin's most desirable residential areas. With beautiful early twentieth-century architecture and a rich history, Hyde Park represents the spirit of Old Austin.

Despite being very densely populated, Hyde Park feels warm and inviting. Almost every home has a porch, and the few apartment and condo complexes are quaint and inviting. The area was laid out by native Texan Morton Shipe in the late 19th century, when Austin was still growing and Hyde Park was on the northern edge of town.

Hyde Parkers are serious about maintaining the historic feel and architectural integrity of the neighborhood. The Hyde Park Neighborhood Association deals with such issues, and also runs an annual home tour, which allows people to check out the amazing historic homes the neighborhood has to offer.

Hyde Park's proximity to The University of Texas at Austin makes it a popular spot for older students, faculty, and young professionals; it's just a short ride to Downtown or a quick bike ride to campus.

The North Loop area, just north of Hyde Park proper, is a bastion of hipster glory amid modest homes, student rental properties, and small businesses. This area attracts many young people, especially artists and musicians; real estate here is relatively affordable, and the local businesses cater to the counter-culture crowd.

What to do

Hyde Park's layout and property mix makes it feel like a small town within the larger city, with its own grocery stores, restaurants, and hangouts. Get your morning coffee and a delicious pastry at Quack's, a local bakery that's great for people watching or just enjoying a good book. When it's dinner time, stop by Hyde Park Bar and Grill for a laid-back dinner with friends, and enjoy fresh food and excellent desserts, along with the best French fries in Austin. After dinner, you only have to walk next door to check out La Dolce Vita, an amazing dessert bar and gelato shop that offers a great selection of drinks and desserts.

These and other local favorites, such as the killer restaurant Asti and local vegetarian favorite Mother's, are all located at the intersection of 43rd and Duval, which is the place to be for just about everyone in the neighborhood – the artistic types, young couples, families, and old-Austin hippies can all be found enjoying some grappa or coffee on one of the inviting patios.

While you're in the neighborhood, don't forget to check out Shipe Pool, named for the neighborhood's founder, for a relaxing afternoon of swimming and sun. Also, check out of the best of Austin's municipal golf courses, Hancock Golf Course, which is the oldest golf course in Texas.

There's also Fresh Plus, one of Austin's best local grocery stores, Hyde Park Gym (you can't miss the giant barbell protruding onto Guadalupe), and other great local businesses are just a few blocks away. For the essentials, check out Hancock Center, located on the east end of the neighborhood on Red River, for chain stores, an H-E-B, and more.

In the North Loop area, there are several quirky local business worth checking out. The Musical Exchange is one of Austin's coolest music stores, and it's owner/guitar mechanic, Walter, is an Austin legend. Just around the corner is Room Service Vintage, a great place to find unique furniture, clothing, and home décor, and Monkeywrench, a volunteer operated, non-profit, collectively owned bookstore with a truly radical selection. And when you're worn out from shopping, check out Epoch Coffee Shop, a great neighborhood spot with a huge outdoor patio that's always busy.

Why live here?

It's impossible to overstate the appeal of a neighborhood like Hyde Park; everyone seems to love it, and the diverse population is proof of its desirability. If wide, tree-shaded avenues and beautiful early twentieth-century homes are what appeals to your family, Hyde Park was made for you. But with excellent local food, great hang-outs, and proximity to everything, it's a great place to call home for students and young professionals as well.

Quick Facts

Household Income

$34,004

Recent Job Growth

2.73%

Median Home Value

$319,000

Median Home Age

43

Appreciation (2007)

6.33%

Percentage Renting

71.26%

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