Crestview

Crestview is a well-established neighborhood located in North Central Austin, bounded by Burnet Road to the west, Justin Lane to the south, N Lamar Boulevard to the east, and W Anderson Lane to the north. Developed beginning in the late 1940s on former dairy farmland by developers Alfred B. Beddow and Ray Yates, Crestview transformed from rural farmland into a thriving residential community. The neighborhood experienced rapid growth in the 1950s and 1960s as returning World War II veterans utilized the GI Bill to purchase affordable homes. Once considered the suburbs, Crestview has evolved into one of Central Austin's most desirable neighborhoods, offering the perfect balance of old Austin charm with modern conveniences. The area is characterized by tree-lined streets, friendly neighbors, and a strong sense of community pride. Its proximity to Downtown Austin, the Research Park areas to the north, and major employment centers makes it highly accessible while maintaining the comfort and character of suburban living.

Crestview attracts a diverse demographic including families, young professionals, and retirees who appreciate the neighborhood's central location without the intensity of downtown living. The community is known for its friendly atmosphere, with residents greeting one another on morning walks and participating in neighborhood events like block parties. The area maintains a strong sense of community identity and pride in preserving its historic character. Brentwood Park, acquired by the City of Austin in 1951, serves as the primary greenspace for both Brentwood and Crestview residents, providing recreational opportunities and gathering spaces. The neighborhood's accessibility to shopping, dining, and arts venues means residents enjoy urban amenities while maintaining a more relaxed, suburban lifestyle. The Crestview MetroRail stop provides convenient public transit options for commuters, reducing reliance on personal vehicles for those working downtown or at nearby employment centers.

Crestview is served by Austin Independent School District (AISD). The neighborhood's elementary school is Brentwood Elementary, which also serves the adjacent Brentwood neighborhood. Students typically progress to nearby middle and high schools within the AISD system. Historically, the area was served by Esperanza School from 1893 to 1941, which operated on the northeast corner of what is now Romeria and Burnet Road before the neighborhoods were annexed by the City of Austin. Current AISD schools serving the area provide comprehensive educational programs and are part of Austin's well-regarded public school system.

Crestview offers a variety of local dining and shopping options that reflect the neighborhood's character and community spirit. The Crestview Shopping Center features established businesses including Little Deli, a vibrant dining establishment known for personalized customer service, Crestview Pharmacy (family-owned since 1964), Crestview Barber Shop, and Crestview Beauty Salon. Arlan's Market, which opened in March 2016, continues the neighborhood's grocery tradition in the space previously occupied by Crestview Minimax IGA, which served the community for 63 years. Nearby shopping destinations include HEB and Walmart for everyday needs, while the Triangle—a mixed-use development featuring apartments, restaurants, shops, and a movie theater—is just a short drive away. Lamar Central Market provides additional shopping and dining options. The neighborhood's proximity to North Austin's broader dining and entertainment scene means residents have easy access to diverse culinary experiences and entertainment venues.

Crestview's housing stock is predominantly composed of homes built in the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s, featuring modest mid-century architecture including bungalows, ranch-style homes, and mid-century modern designs. Typical homes range from 700 to 1,300 square feet with 2-3 bedrooms and 1-2 bathrooms. Many original homes remain in the neighborhood, though the majority have been updated and renovated over the decades. In recent years, custom home builders have increasingly purchased properties in Crestview, demolishing existing structures to build new homes with modern designs and upgrades, reflecting the neighborhood's desirability and central location. This trend has introduced contemporary construction alongside the neighborhood's historic character. The neighborhood's prime central location, proximity to Downtown Austin, and access to major employment centers have made it an attractive investment area. Buyers should expect a mix of vintage charm and modern renovations, with opportunities ranging from original character homes to newly constructed residences. The neighborhood appeals to those seeking established community character with convenient urban access, making it competitive in Austin's real estate market.