South First

South First Street is located in South Austin, south of the Colorado River, and is part of the historic Bouldin Creek neighborhood. The area was originally developed in the early 20th century as part of the Bouldin Addition, Austin's first planned suburban development south of the river, with the neighborhood officially identified as a suburb on maps dating to 1919. South First Street and its parallel numbered streets (First through Seventh) were named to distinguish them from the downtown numbered streets and other directional variants (East First, West First) when the area was annexed into Austin. The neighborhood is bounded by Dawson Neighborhood Park and Gillis Neighborhood Park, with Bouldin Creek forming a natural western boundary. This area exemplifies Austin's early suburban expansion and represents one of the city's oldest continuously developed neighborhoods south of the river, characterized by tree-lined streets and a mix of historic and updated residential properties.

The South First/Bouldin Creek area attracts residents seeking proximity to downtown Austin while maintaining a neighborhood feel with established tree canopy and community character. The neighborhood draws a diverse mix of young professionals, families, and long-term residents who appreciate the area's walkability to South Congress Avenue and its proximity to Lady Bird Lake. Community life centers around local parks, including Dawson and Gillis neighborhood parks, which provide recreational spaces for residents. The area benefits from its location near South Congress, one of Austin's most vibrant commercial corridors, offering easy access to restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Residents enjoy the established neighborhood infrastructure, mature landscaping, and the sense of community that comes with one of Austin's oldest continuously inhabited neighborhoods.

The South First area is served by Austin Independent School District (AISD). Students typically attend Bouldin Elementary School, which serves the immediate neighborhood, followed by Zilker Elementary or other nearby elementary options depending on exact location. For middle school, students generally attend Fulmore Middle School or similar AISD middle schools serving South Austin. High school students are zoned to Austin High School or Lanier High School, both well-established AISD institutions. The specific school assignments may vary depending on the exact address within the South First corridor, and families should verify current attendance boundaries with AISD.

The South First area benefits from its proximity to South Congress Avenue, one of Austin's premier entertainment and dining destinations located just blocks away. While specific establishments on South First itself vary, the immediate vicinity offers access to the diverse restaurant scene, vintage shops, galleries, and cafes that characterize South Congress. The neighborhood is also near Zilker Park, one of Austin's most popular recreational destinations, which offers trails, sports facilities, and community gathering spaces. Lady Bird Lake provides additional recreational opportunities including kayaking, paddleboarding, and waterfront trails. The area's walkability to these commercial and recreational hubs makes it attractive for residents seeking urban amenities without sacrificing neighborhood character.

The South First/Bouldin Creek area features a mix of historic bungalows and cottages dating from the early 20th century alongside updated and renovated homes. Many properties retain original architectural character while others have been modernized. Lot sizes in this established neighborhood typically range from modest urban lots to larger parcels, reflecting the area's suburban origins. Housing prices reflect South Austin's desirability and proximity to downtown, with values influenced by the neighborhood's historic character, tree canopy, and location near South Congress and Lady Bird Lake. The market includes both owner-occupied residences and rental properties, appealing to investors seeking established neighborhoods with strong community character. Recent trends in South Austin generally show continued appreciation as the area remains popular with buyers seeking established neighborhoods with walkability and proximity to Austin's cultural amenities. Buyers should expect competitive market conditions typical of desirable South Austin locations, with properties often featuring mature trees and established infrastructure.