West Lake Hills

West Lake Hills is an independent incorporated city established in 1953, covering approximately 3.7 square miles in west central Travis County, located six miles west of downtown Austin. Founded by Emmett Shelton Sr., the city was created to maintain autonomy and preserve the character of the community as Austin expanded around it. West Lake Hills is bordered by the Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve to the west, Rollingwood to the south, Lake Austin to the east, and Davenport Ranch to the northwest. The neighborhood is characterized by abundant trees, woodlands, and green spaces with breathtaking Hill Country vistas. Despite being surrounded by Austin's growth, West Lake Hills has maintained its distinct identity as a separate municipality with its own city government, police department, and fire department. The Emmett Shelton Bridge connects West Lake Hills with Austin, serving as a testament to the city's founding vision. As of the 2020 census, the population was 3,444 residents.

West Lake Hills offers an upscale, small-town feel with the convenience of proximity to downtown Austin and major attractions. The community attracts affluent professionals and families seeking a serene, nature-oriented lifestyle while remaining minutes away from popular destinations such as Barton Springs, the 2nd Street District, and Hill Country Galleria. Residents enjoy extensive outdoor recreation opportunities including hiking and biking trails throughout the area, water activities on Lake Austin, and access to the Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve. The neighborhood is known for its tree-lined streets, spacious lots, and low-density residential character that emphasizes privacy and natural beauty. The community maintains a strong sense of identity with active civic engagement through the city's independent governance structure. Daily life in West Lake Hills centers around family-oriented activities, outdoor recreation, and access to quality schools, though most residents rely on personal vehicles for transportation given the suburban nature of the area.

West Lake Hills is served by the Eanes Independent School District, which is renowned for its strong academic programs and extracurricular activities. The elementary school serving the area is Eanes Elementary, providing foundational education with a focus on academic excellence. Hill Country Middle School serves middle-grade students and is known for its comprehensive curriculum and student development programs. Westlake High School is the primary high school serving West Lake Hills residents and is recognized as a top-rated institution in the Austin area. The Eanes ISD is distinguished by its commitment to educational quality and offers robust extracurricular activities that enhance student development beyond the classroom.

West Lake Hills benefits from its proximity to major Austin dining and entertainment destinations while maintaining a quieter residential character. The neighborhood is minutes away from the Hill Country Galleria shopping center, which offers retail and dining options. Residents have easy access to the vibrant 2nd Street District and surrounding areas of central Austin, which feature numerous restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. The area near Bee Cave Road and Highway 360 provides convenient access to additional dining and shopping establishments. Lake Austin offers recreational opportunities including water activities and scenic views. The Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve to the west provides nature-based recreation and hiking opportunities. While West Lake Hills itself maintains a residential focus, the strategic location ensures residents can quickly access Austin's diverse dining, shopping, and entertainment scene.

West Lake Hills features primarily single-family residential homes on spacious lots, reflecting the community's emphasis on privacy and natural surroundings. The neighborhood is characterized by established homes built primarily during the 1970s and 1980s development boom, though newer construction and renovations continue. Typical homes range from traditional Hill Country-style architecture to contemporary designs, many featuring multiple acres and extensive landscaping. The housing market in West Lake Hills commands premium pricing due to the area's desirable location, top-rated schools, natural beauty, and independent city status. Lot sizes typically range from one to several acres, significantly larger than typical Austin subdivisions. The area attracts affluent buyers seeking upscale suburban living with Hill Country character and proximity to downtown Austin. Recent market trends reflect strong demand for properties in this established, prestigious community. Most residents are homeowners rather than renters, as the area is primarily developed for single-family residential use. The independent city status and limited commercial development help maintain property values and neighborhood character.