Highland Park

Highland Park is a charming central Austin neighborhood located just northwest of downtown, offering an appealing blend of mid-century character homes and stunning modern estates along quiet, tree-canopied streets. With home prices ranging from around $700,000 to over $3 million, Highland Park serves a broad spectrum of buyers drawn to its central location, highly regarded elementary school, and the kind of established neighborhood charm that's increasingly rare close to downtown Austin.

Real Estate in Highland Park

Highland Park's real estate market is dynamic and diverse. The neighborhood features original 1950s ranch homes that have been lovingly maintained or creatively renovated, alongside impressive modern builds and luxury custom estates. This range creates an interesting streetscape where a classic mid-century cottage might sit next to a contemporary architectural showcase. The broad price range — from around $700,000 for smaller original homes to over $3 million for premium new construction — means Highland Park attracts buyers at multiple stages of life and investment. The neighborhood's proximity to downtown, combined with its established feel, keeps demand consistently strong.

Schools in Highland Park

Highland Park Elementary is one of the most highly regarded public elementary schools in Austin ISD, earning top ratings for its academics and community involvement. The school is a cornerstone of the neighborhood and a significant reason many families choose to buy here. Students typically continue to Lamar Middle School and McCallum High School, both of which offer strong academic programs and extracurricular activities. The combination of a walkable neighborhood school and quality feeder pattern makes Highland Park especially attractive to families who prioritize public education.

Dining and Lifestyle

Highland Park's central location puts an incredible range of dining and entertainment options within easy reach. The neighborhood sits near the intersection of several major corridors, providing quick access to the restaurants and shops along Burnet Road, North Lamar, and the Allandale area. Local favorites range from laid-back breakfast spots to acclaimed dinner destinations. The growing North Loop and Crestview food scenes are just minutes away, adding craft breweries, specialty coffee shops, and inventive eateries to an already rich mix. Downtown Austin's entertainment district is also just a short drive south.

Parks and Outdoor Living

Perry Park is the neighborhood's central green space, offering a playground, open fields, and a shaded area perfect for relaxing afternoons. Highland Park's proximity to the trails and scenic overlooks at Mount Bonnell is a major perk for outdoor enthusiasts — it's one of Austin's most iconic vantage points and sits just minutes from the neighborhood. Residents also enjoy easy access to the extensive trail network along Shoal Creek and the broader greenbelt system. The neighborhood's mature tree canopy and quiet, walkable streets make outdoor living a daily pleasure, whether you're going for a morning jog or an evening stroll.

Housing Options

The housing mix in Highland Park is part of what makes the neighborhood so interesting. You'll find compact 1950s ranch homes with two or three bedrooms alongside expansive four- and five-bedroom modern estates with all the bells and whistles. Renovation projects are common, with buyers purchasing original homes and transforming them into personalized showcases. New construction tends to feature open floor plans, high ceilings, designer kitchens, and outdoor living spaces. Lot sizes vary but are generally generous for a neighborhood this close to downtown, with many properties offering room for pools, gardens, or ADUs.

Getting Around

Highland Park's central location is one of its strongest selling points. Downtown Austin is just minutes to the south via North Lamar Boulevard or Burnet Road. MoPac Expressway provides quick north-south connectivity, while the Burnet Road corridor offers a direct route to the Domain and northwest Austin employment centers. Bus routes serve the area, and the neighborhood's flat terrain makes cycling a viable commute option for those heading downtown. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is approximately 25 minutes south via MoPac and Highway 71.

Why Highland Park

Highland Park delivers the Austin living experience that so many buyers dream about — a central location with real neighborhood character, excellent schools, tree-lined streets, and easy access to the city's best dining and culture. Whether you're drawn to a charming mid-century home with renovation potential or a brand-new luxury build, Highland Park has something special to offer. If central Austin living with a strong community feel appeals to you, I'd love to help you explore Highland Park.