East Austin

East Austin is the creative soul of the city — a neighborhood where art, music, food, and entrepreneurship collide in the most exciting way. Once a well-kept local secret, East Austin has become one of the most sought-after addresses in the city, drawing buyers with its walkable streets, thriving restaurant scene, and unmistakable creative energy. If you want to live where Austin's culture is being made — not just consumed — East Austin is the place.

Real Estate in East Austin

East Austin's housing market has evolved dramatically over the past decade. Median home prices currently range from $500,000 to $650,000, with the market having corrected from peak levels and now offering more accessible entry points. The area maintains a premium over the broader Austin metro thanks to its central location and cultural cachet. From historic bungalows with character to sleek new modern builds, East Austin's real estate market is as dynamic and diverse as the neighborhood itself.

Schools

East Austin is served by the Austin Independent School District, with multiple elementary, middle, and high school options depending on your exact location. The school landscape is evolving as AISD continues to invest in facilities and programs throughout the east side. Families appreciate the proximity to the University of Texas and the broader educational resources available across Austin.

The Food Scene

East Austin has arguably the most exciting food scene in the city. Nationally recognized restaurants like Birdie's, Nixta Taqueria, and Suerte have put the neighborhood on the culinary map. Parish Barbecue brings elevated Texas BBQ to the east side, while Licha's Cantina serves Mexican-inspired cuisine with a creative twist. Buenos Aires Cafe delivers incredible empanadas, and Wright Bros. Brew and Brew pairs craft beer with vinyl records. From Michelin-recognized dining to beloved food trucks, East Austin is where Austin's most innovative chefs choose to open — and for good reason.

Art, Music, and Culture

East Austin's cultural landscape is defined by its creativity. Colorful murals cover building walls throughout the neighborhood, turning everyday walks into gallery experiences. Local art galleries, studios, and maker spaces provide a creative backbone. Live music venues and intimate performance spaces keep Austin's musical heritage alive and thriving on the east side. The annual East Austin Studio Tour opens hundreds of artist studios to the public, revealing the depth of creative talent that calls this neighborhood home.

Parks and Outdoor Activities

East Austin enjoys excellent access to Lady Bird Lake for kayaking, paddleboarding, and running the hike-and-bike trail. The Congress Avenue Bridge — home to the famous bat colony — is an easy walk or bike ride from most of the neighborhood. Local parks provide green space throughout the area, and the vibrant patio culture means outdoor dining and socializing are a year-round lifestyle. East Austin's compact, walkable scale means you are never far from a park, a trail, or a great patio.

Housing Options

East Austin's housing stock tells the story of the neighborhood's evolution. Historic bungalows with deep porches and mature trees sit alongside bold, modern new construction with clean lines and rooftop decks. Condos and loft-style residences offer options for buyers seeking lower maintenance. Mixed-use developments are adding new inventory in key corridors. The result is a neighborhood where architectural variety is the norm and every street has its own character.

Getting Around

East Austin is one of the most centrally located neighborhoods in the city, sitting just five to 15 minutes from downtown depending on your exact location. Walkability is a defining feature — many residents handle daily errands, dining, and entertainment entirely on foot or by bike. CapMetro transit and MetroRapid bus service connect the area to the broader Austin network. Owning a car is convenient but not essential for day-to-day life in East Austin.

Why East Austin

East Austin is where Austin's energy is most concentrated and authentic. The food, the art, the music, the community — it all comes together in a neighborhood that rewards curiosity and creativity. With the market offering better value than it has in years, now is an exciting time to explore East Austin. Let me help you find your place in this one-of-a-kind neighborhood.