Round Rock

Round Rock is a thriving suburban city located approximately 15-20 miles north of downtown Austin, positioned in both Williamson and Travis counties. The city is conveniently accessible via Interstate 35, which serves as the primary corridor connecting it to Austin and nearby communities like Georgetown and Cedar Park. Round Rock shares a common border with Austin near State Highway 45. The city straddles the Balcones Escarpment, creating distinct geographical characteristics: the eastern side features flat terrain with fertile Blackland Prairie soils, while the western side consists of hilly, karst-like terrain with higher elevations characteristic of the Texas Hill Country. With a population of approximately 119,468 according to the 2020 census, Round Rock has earned recognition as one of the fastest-growing cities in Texas and was named the seventh-best American small city in which to live by Money Magazine in 2008. The city is characterized by tree-lined streets, spacious parks, and well-planned suburban neighborhoods that balance modern amenities with residential tranquility. Round Rock's iconic water tower and historic downtown district serve as distinctive landmarks, while the city has successfully maintained a high quality of life while becoming a major economic center in Central Texas.

Round Rock offers a suburban lifestyle that appeals to families, young professionals, and established residents seeking a blend of small-town charm and urban convenience. The community is known for its strong sense of identity, with a charming downtown area featuring local establishments like Round Rock Donuts and the historic water tower. Residents enjoy excellent recreational facilities including the Clay Madsen Recreation Center, Dell Diamond (a minor league baseball stadium), the Round Rock Amphitheater, and the expansive Old Settlers Park, which provides opportunities for walking, running, and outdoor relaxation. The city hosts various community events and maintains numerous parks throughout its neighborhoods, supporting an active outdoor lifestyle. Shopping and entertainment options range from the upscale La Frontera area with major retailers and commercial developments to the Round Rock Outlet Mall and Bass Pro Shop on the northern side of the city, as well as nearby IKEA. The community attracts families prioritizing education and safety, with demographics reflecting a mix of young families, established homeowners, and professionals working within the city's growing job market.

Round Rock is served by the Round Rock Independent School District, which is recognized as one of the best school districts in Texas with A+ ratings. The district operates numerous elementary schools serving the area including Anderson Mill, Berkman, Blackland Prairie, Bluebonnet, Brushy Creek, Cactus Ranch, Caldwell Heights, Callison, Canyon Creek, Caraway, Chandler Oaks, Deep Wood, Double File Trail, England, Fern Bluff, Forest Creek, Forest North, Gattis, Great Oaks, Herrington, Jollyville, Laurel Mountain, Live Oak, Old Town, Pond Springs, Purple Sage, Robertson Sommer, Spicewood, Teravista, Union Hill, and Voigt. Middle schools serving Round Rock include Canyon Vista, Cedar Valley, C.D. Fulkes, Chisholm Trail, Deerpark, Grisham, Hernandez, Hopewell, Ridgeview, and Walsh. High school options include Cedar Ridge High School, McNeil High School, Round Rock High School, and Stony Point High School. The Round Rock ISD is known for its comprehensive academic programs and strong performance metrics, making it a significant draw for families relocating to the area.

Round Rock offers diverse dining and entertainment options across multiple commercial districts. The historic downtown area features local favorites including the iconic Round Rock Donuts, a beloved local establishment. The La Frontera area serves as a major commercial hub featuring numerous restaurants, retail shops, and entertainment venues alongside big-box retailers. The northern section of Round Rock includes the Round Rock Outlet Mall, Bass Pro Shop, and IKEA, providing extensive shopping opportunities. The city hosts entertainment at Dell Diamond, home to minor league baseball, and the Round Rock Amphitheater, which hosts community events and performances. Old Settlers Park offers recreational activities and natural spaces for outdoor entertainment. The broader Round Rock commercial landscape includes numerous dining establishments, cafes, and entertainment venues distributed throughout various neighborhoods and commercial developments, with additional shopping and dining options available in nearby areas like La Frontera Village.

Round Rock offers diverse housing options catering to various buyer profiles, from first-time homebuyers to luxury home seekers. The market features a mix of housing styles including new construction developments, established suburban homes, and custom-built residences. The city encompasses numerous subdivisions and neighborhoods such as Amanda Amorron Park, Apache Oaks, Arbor Place, Ashton Oaks, Bear Creek Place, Brushy Creek, Chandler at Sunrise, Forest Creek, Mayfield Ranch, Paloma Lake, Teravista, and many others, each offering distinct characteristics and price points. Housing prices range from starter homes to luxury properties exceeding $1 million, reflecting the diversity of the market. Lot sizes vary considerably depending on the neighborhood and development, with newer master-planned communities offering a range of options. Round Rock's real estate market has benefited from strong economic growth, excellent schools, and the city's reputation as a desirable suburban destination. The area encompasses multiple zip codes including 78664, 78665, 78680, 78681, 78682, and 78683, each representing different neighborhoods with varying characteristics. Recent market trends reflect continued growth and development, with new construction projects ongoing throughout the city. The commute to downtown Austin typically ranges from 25-30 minutes during normal traffic conditions, extending to 40-45 minutes during peak hours, though many residents benefit from growing employment opportunities within Round Rock itself, reducing commute times significantly.