Considered the epicenter of cool, this South Austin neighborhood benefits from its proximity to oodles of cool shops and hot restaurants (many along nearby South Lamar), a spectacular string of trails and refreshing waterways, and easy access to downtown. Like most of South Austin, Barton Hills embraces the city’s unofficial motto to “Keep Austin Weird,” and its laid-back vibe attracts millennials and older residents alike. And while it may be close to the action, the neighborhood itself feels sealed off from the fun-loving crowds who descend on Zilker Park and Barton Springs.
Zip Code: 78704
MLS Area: 7
Population: 10,858
Founded: 1940s
School District: Austin ISD
Most homes built between: 1970 and 1979
Average Household Income: $165,331
Time to Downtown: 11 Minutes
Time to Airport: 20 minutes
Austin’s best-known natural feature is Barton Springs, a concrete-ringed watering hole fed by the chilly springs that burble up from the Edwards Aquifer. Even though some half a million people take a dip here each year (the people-watching is excellent), you’ll come to think of it as your own private pool.