Central Austin Neighborhood Guide

Central Austin Neighborhood Guide

The heart of Austin’s college scene, but with enough activities and green space to satisfy anyone.

Young · Walkable · Popular · Lively


When you hit Central Austin, you’ll know right away you landed in Longhorn territory. From the massive football stadium, which packs in crowds of tailgaters every fall, to the burnt orange glow of the UT Tower, the University of Texas at Austin dominates this area just north of Downtown. And, with its close proximity to all academic buildings — not to mention, the infamous strip of bars and restaurants known as “The Drag” — there’s no doubt it attracts a collegiate population.


However, the gorgeous, historic houses in this area would be perfect for small, growing families as well, especially in the section known as Hyde Park. The architecture there spans the gamut from peaked-roof Victorian classics, to hip, quaint bungalows. Yet, despite the different styles, a love of greenery mixed with a modern attitude abounds, creating a place where old magnolia trees line the blocks alongside progressive political banners and signs.


 
0 ‧ ‧ ‧Apartments for Rent
0 ‧ ‧ ‧Apartments for Rent
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
   

Neighborhood Life

Considering its proximity to campus, you can bet the students here spend their weekends doing what they do best: hitting the bars. Nevertheless, because everything from sports dives to live music gems line the streets, there are enough options for anyone who lives or studies here.


In contrast to the neon lights of The Drag, the Hancock Conservancy’s sizable green space includes a golf course, dog park, and recreation center. But, with such beautiful houses on every corner of Central Austin, you might choose to forego the walk in the park for a stroll on the sidewalk.

Local Hangouts

Plenty of cultural institutions surround this neighborhood’s centerpiece, the world-renowned UT Austin. One of our favorites is the Harry Ransom Center, an endlessly fascinating archival collection that counts a Frida Kahlo self-portrait and the oldest surviving photograph in the world among its many treasures.


Locals and students alike treasure the chocolate cupcakes with chocolate frosting at coffee shop and hang out spot, Quacks 43rd Street Bakery. Follow the college students’ lead and grab an additional large cold brew to go.


Things to know

There’s a good rule of thumb when it comes to parking options in Central Austin: the closer you get to the UT campus, the less likely it becomes to find a spot. The campus itself enforces restrictive parking measures — most places require a UT permit to park, if you can even find a spot. Luckily, as you venture towards this neighborhood’s outskirts, more opportunities for street parking arise.


For those looking to live as close to the home of the Longhorns as possible, however, an apartment building with a parking garage or parking spots is a must-have.



Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the University of Texas at Austin has their campus in Central Austin, bringing lots of life to the area. In addition to UT, Central Austin is home to various music venues, fine dining, museums, and nightlife.
Central Austin often refers to Downtown and surrounding central neighborhoods. A more official definition would be the area north of the Colorado River, west of I-35, east of the Mopac Expressway, and up north until about 51st Street.
The average rent in Central Austin, Austin is $1,873 based on the last 3 months of data.
The average apartment size in Central Austin, Austin is 812ft² based on the last 3 months of data.
The lowest monthly rent in Central Austin over the past 3 months is $895 for a studio apartment, and the most expensive unit is $4,672 for a 2 bedroom apartment.
There are 674 units available for rent in Central Austin, Austin as of 3 hours ago.

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