Finding the right Austin neighborhood that is within walking distance to different amenities is something that someone would want. Going around without the need of driving a car is a goal for many Americans these days.
Austin has become an urban core over the last 10 years and the walk score is currently 33rd in the country. Austin has become more bike- and pedestrian-friendly with more lanes for each located within the many neighborhoods of central Austin.
These areas in Austin, Texas is known as some of the city’s pedestrian-friendly cities, but where are these places where you can walk to restaurants, shops, and your favorite hangout spots? Here are the top 5 most walkable neighborhoods in Austin, Texas.
The University of Texas – Austin
UT Austin’s student population has influenced its neighborhood and the businesses around it. UT Austin holds the title of being the #1 public university in Texas making it an ideal place to study and work for many. The university is also one of the largest employers in Austin with over 6,000 staff and faculty combined. As of Fall 2022, the university has more than 52,300 students enrolled.
Walking, public transit, and bikes, are the way to go as most residents in the area don’t have vehicles. Amenities, restaurants, and live music venues are within walking distance.
According to the official University of Texas website, UT Austin is surrounded by five neighborhoods including the following:
- West Campus – has a population of mostly undergraduate students with close proximity to the university and home to a number of sororities and fraternities.
- North Campus / Hyde Park – the population in this area includes students, faculty, and staff. It has a quieter atmosphere with close proximity to boutiques and public transportation.
- Riverside – undergraduates, graduates, and young professionals reside in this trendy neighborhood with a moderate distance from campus.
- East Campus – a growing community where neighborhoods such as Mueller and Cherrywood can be found. The population in this area is composed of families, young professionals, and students.
- Far West – located to the west of MoPac less than 20 minutes away by car from UT Austin and offers a residential feel.
Downtown Austin and South Austin are located to the south of UT Austin and allow more options for entertainment and nightlife. Students get to save more when walking compared to owning a medium-sized car that could cost thousands from maintenance to gasoline. Living in a walkable Austin neighborhood is not just great to keep you active, but it also saves you cash.
West University
The heart of off-campus living, also known as the West Campus, West University is the second most bike-friendly area in Austin with more than 17,000 residents in the area dominated by undergraduate students and more than 50 Greek organizations.
Graduate students, faculty, and staff also reside in the area and have more of a loud atmosphere since it’s closer to the university. If you prefer a more quiet neighborhood, there are neighborhoods within North University/North Campus and Hyde Park.
Residents living in the area have convenient access to different shops and markets including Fresh Plus, Nueces Mart, Orange Market, and West Campus Market. The options for cafes, restaurants and food trucks are endless. Whether you’re looking for classic American dishes, tacos, pizza, donuts, or a cup of Joe, you can find them by clusters near The Drag, MLK, and 26th Street.
Pease District Park is right next to the West Campus, an urban park with trails, picnic spaces, and amenities.
Old West Austin
Another walkable neighborhood in Austin is Old West Austin. It was selected as one of the 10 Great Neighborhoods in America by the American Planning Association with close proximity to UT Austin and downtown Austin.
Old West Austin is a historic neighborhood surrounded by mature trees and offers a serene atmosphere. The area is composed of three neighborhoods namely Bryker Woods, Old Enfield, and Pemberton Heights.
Single-family homes, apartments, and condos are around the area and by Enfield Road and Bryker Woods, while you can find homes with views of Shoal Creek and Pease Park from Pemberton Heights.
As one of the oldest neighborhoods in the area, you can find newly renovated homes and classic-style bungalows. The neighborhood is also abundant in natural recreational areas. Shops can be easily walked within the neighborhood as well as restaurants and grocery stores.
Downtown Austin
The downtown skyline of Austin has morphed into a collection of high-rise luxury condos and commercial towers within the last 15 years. The upcoming developments in the area include a 74-story mixed-used Skyscraper.
Downtown Austin is one of the best neighborhoods to live in Austin. You get convenient access to UT Austin, coffee shops, restaurants, nightlife, and employees have easy access to major employers in the area.
Residents in the area have benefited from these buildings by enjoying craft cocktails at different bars and restaurants that are within the walking distance. A fair recent addition is Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods Market.
Read More About Downtown Austin
- View Available Listings in Downtown Austin
- Downtown Austin Condo Guide
- Top Already-Build Condos in Downtown Austin
- Best Neighborhoods for Tech Workers
Bouldin Creek
Bouldin Creek is one of Austin’s oldest neighborhoods located in South Austin. This quiet and walkable area in Austin offers nearby access to South Lamar and South Congress, a few of the trendy neighborhoods in 78704.
It is conveniently located close to downtown and has access to various businesses and restaurants. Residents can keep themselves active with hike and bike trails that are found by Lady Bird Lake, Barton Creek, and Zilker Park. Many families reside in the area because of its distinct character and proximity to commercial and green spaces.
Pedestrian and Bike-friendly Neighborhoods in Austin
Besides being pedestrian and bike-friendly, walkable neighborhoods are places where people can walk to work, shopping and dining options, parks, and even schools. We hope this has helped you learn more about walkable neighborhoods in Austin, TX.
If you’re looking to buy, rent, or invest in a pedestrian and bike-friendly neighborhood, we can help. Fill out the form below to get in touch with a relocation specialist!
