Choosing a home is about more than just the house itself; it’s about the community, the lifestyle, and for many, the quality of the local schools. In a competitive and dynamic city like Austin, Texas, the school district can be a deciding factor for homebuyers, influencing everything from daily life to long-term property value. This comprehensive guide explores the best school districts in the Austin area, offering detailed insights into their academic performance, unique characteristics, housing markets, lifestyle amenities, and proximity to downtown Austin.
The Impact of School Districts on Homebuying
For families with children, the importance of a good school district is obvious. However, even for homebuyers without children, the quality of local schools is a critical factor to consider. A strong school district is a sign of a healthy, stable community and can have a significant impact on a home’s value and resale potential. Research has shown a direct correlation between school quality and property values. A 2013 study by Redfin found that homebuyers paid an average of $50 more per square foot for homes in top-rated school zones [6]. Furthermore, homes in desirable school districts tend to hold their value better during economic downturns and are in higher demand, leading to faster resale times [1].
According to the National Association of Realtors, 42% of buyers ages 31 to 40 cited school district quality as an influence on their neighborhood choice in 2021 [6]. This demonstrates that school districts are not just an educational consideration but a significant economic and lifestyle factor for homebuyers across demographics.
When evaluating school districts, homebuyers should look beyond just test scores. Factors to consider include academic programs (such as Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, STEM, and arts programs), extracurricular activities, school culture and community involvement, and teacher quality with favorable student-to-teacher ratios. It is important to note that under the Fair Housing Act, real estate agents are legally prohibited from steering buyers towards or away from certain neighborhoods based on school quality, as this can be interpreted as a form of discrimination [6]. Therefore, it is crucial for homebuyers to conduct their own research using objective, third-party resources.
Top-Rated School Districts in the Austin Area
The Austin metropolitan area is home to a diverse range of school districts, each with its own unique strengths and characteristics. The following is a detailed overview of the top-rated districts, based on data from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) and other reputable sources.
| Rank | School District | TEA District Grade | STAAR Score | Median Home Price (Approx.) | Distance to Downtown |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Eanes ISD | A (96) | 94 | $1.6M | 6 miles |
| 2 | Lake Travis ISD | A (94) | 92 | Varies | 15-25 miles |
| 3 | Wimberley ISD | A (92) | 88 | Varies | 40 miles |
| 4 | Dripping Springs ISD | A (91) | 91 | Varies | 24-26 miles |
| 5 | Liberty Hill ISD | A (91) | 90 | Varies | 35-40 miles |
| 6 | Lago Vista ISD | A (91) | 87 | Varies | 35-40 miles |
| 7 | Leander ISD | B (89) | 91 | $485k – $788k | 20-30 miles |
| 8 | Round Rock ISD | B (89) | 91 | $434k | 15-20 miles |
| 9 | Austin ISD | B (89) | 84 | $559k | 0-10 miles |
| 10 | Pflugerville ISD | B (89) | 82 | Varies | 15-20 miles |
1. Eanes Independent School District
Eanes ISD is consistently ranked as one of the top school districts in Texas, earning an “A” rating from the TEA with a student achievement score of 96 out of 100 [5]. The district serves the affluent communities of West Austin, Rollingwood, and Westlake Hills. With a student-teacher ratio of 14:1 and an average SAT score of 1310, Eanes ISD is known for its rigorous academic programs and high-achieving students [5]. The district’s schools have earned “Exemplary” ratings from the TEA for ten consecutive years [5].
Housing and Neighborhoods: The housing market in Eanes ISD is at a premium, with a median home price of approximately $1.6 million as of June 2025 [4]. The area features a diverse range of architectural styles, from traditional ranch homes to modern estates and Mediterranean-inspired villas. Many properties are built with native Texas stone and sit on large, estate-sized lots with stunning views of the Texas Hill Country or Lake Austin [7]. Neighborhoods include luxury gated communities, lakefront properties, and hillside estates. The area is characterized by mature trees, well-maintained landscapes, and a high level of privacy.
Proximity to Downtown: Eanes ISD is located just 6 miles west of downtown Austin [9], making it one of the closest suburban districts to the city center. Commute times typically range from 15 to 25 minutes depending on traffic, with easy access via Loop 360 (Capital of Texas Highway) and Bee Cave Road.
Dining and Shopping: The Eanes ISD area offers upscale dining and shopping options. The Village at Westlake is an outdoor lifestyle center featuring boutique shops and restaurants including All Star Burger, Buenos Aires Café, and Iron Cactus Mexican Grill [8]. Popular local restaurants include Las Palomas (Mexican cuisine with live music), The Well (farm-to-table), Swedish Hill (bakery and café), and The Grove Wine Bar & Kitchen [7]. Nearby Barton Creek Square provides additional shopping options, while the area is also home to specialty boutiques and local markets.
Lifestyle: The Eanes ISD area attracts affluent professionals, executives, and families seeking top-tier education combined with proximity to downtown Austin. The community is highly educated, with 49% of residents holding a bachelor’s degree and 32% holding a graduate degree [4]. The median age is 42.4 years, and the average individual income is $108,890 [4]. Residents enjoy access to hiking and biking trails in the Barton Creek Greenbelt, water activities on Lake Austin, and a strong sense of community with active neighborhood associations.
2. Lake Travis Independent School District
Lake Travis ISD is another highly-rated district, earning a TEA grade of 94 [2]. This 6A school district serves approximately 10,600 students across a large area that includes parts of Austin, Bee Cave, Dripping Springs, Lakeway, Spicewood, and The Hills. Lake Travis ISD is known for its excellent athletic programs (particularly its championship football team), beautiful campuses, and strong academic offerings, including an International Baccalaureate (IB) program [5]. The district has been ranked among the top 5% of all public schools nationwide by U.S. News & World Report [5].
Housing and Neighborhoods: The Lake Travis area offers a diverse range of housing options, from luxury lakefront estates to more affordable suburban homes. In Lakeway, you’ll find 1980s homes on larger lots with no HOA fees, as well as newer master-planned communities [6]. Spanish Oaks is one of the most luxurious neighborhoods, featuring high-end homes with boat slips, pools, and resort-style amenities [10]. Other popular neighborhoods include The Hills, Rough Hollow, Serene Hills, and Steiner Ranch, offering a mix of Hill Country modern, Mediterranean, and traditional architectural styles.
Proximity to Downtown: Lake Travis ISD communities range from 15 to 25 miles west of downtown Austin [12]. Commute times vary by location but typically range from 25 to 40 minutes via Highway 71, Loop 360, or FM 620.
Dining and Shopping: The Lake Travis area is anchored by the Hill Country Galleria in Bee Cave, a premier outdoor lifestyle center featuring over 75 retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues [11]. Dining options include Chisos Grill, The League Kitchen & Tavern, Buenos Aires CafĂ©, and CafĂ© Blue. Lakeway’s Oaks shopping center offers additional dining and retail options [10]. The area is also home to local favorites like The Oasis on Lake Travis (known for its sunset views) and numerous waterfront restaurants.
Lifestyle: The Lake Travis area offers a resort-style lifestyle with easy access to water recreation including boating, fishing, swimming, and paddle boarding. The community attracts families seeking excellent schools combined with outdoor recreation and a more relaxed pace than central Austin. Residents enjoy golf courses, marinas, parks, and trails. The area has a strong sense of community with active neighborhood associations and family-friendly events.
3. Wimberley Independent School District
For those seeking a smaller, more tight-knit community, Wimberley ISD offers a small-town feel with strong academic results. The district, which serves Wimberley and parts of Driftwood, has only four schools and a student population of just over 2,400 [5]. Wimberley ISD earned an “A” grade from the TEA with a score of 92 [2]. The district is known for its focus on college preparatory courses and unique electives such as robotics, media production, Spanish language studies, art history, and theater studies [5].
Housing and Neighborhoods: Wimberley offers a mix of housing styles, from historic homes in the town center to Hill Country ranch properties on larger acreage. The area features charming cottages, modern farmhouses, and custom-built homes with Hill Country views. Housing is generally more affordable than Eanes or Lake Travis, with a variety of price points available.
Proximity to Downtown: Wimberley is located approximately 40 miles southwest of downtown Austin [14], making it one of the more distant options for commuters. The drive typically takes 45 to 60 minutes via Highway 290 and Ranch Road 12.
Dining and Shopping: Wimberley Square is the heart of this charming Hill Country town, offering a perfect mix of dining, shopping, and unique attractions [13]. The area is known for its art galleries, antique shops, and boutiques. Popular dining spots include Wimberley Café (comfort food and diner classics), local bakeries, and Hill Country restaurants [13]. The town hosts a popular market day on the first Saturday of each month, attracting visitors from across the region.
Lifestyle: Wimberley is famous for its natural beauty, including the Blue Hole swimming area, Cypress Creek, and Jacob’s Well. The community attracts artists, retirees, and families seeking a slower pace of life with strong community ties. The town has a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries and studios. Outdoor recreation includes swimming, tubing, hiking, and exploring the scenic Hill Country landscape.
4. Dripping Springs Independent School District
Dripping Springs ISD is another district that combines a small-town atmosphere with excellent educational opportunities. Serving over 8,000 students in Dripping Springs, Driftwood, and parts of Austin, the district has a graduation rate of over 99%, with approximately 95% of graduates continuing to higher education [3]. Dripping Springs ISD earned an “A” grade from the TEA with a score of 91 [2]. The district is known for its low student-to-teacher ratio, experienced teachers (99.6% are licensed, and 27% have advanced degrees), and strong community involvement [3].
Housing and Neighborhoods: Dripping Springs, known as the “Gateway to the Hill Country,” offers a range of housing from historic homes in the town center to modern Hill Country estates on larger lots. The area features ranch-style homes, custom builds, and master-planned communities. Housing prices are generally more moderate than Eanes or Lake Travis, making it an attractive option for families seeking excellent schools with more space.
Proximity to Downtown: Dripping Springs is located approximately 24 to 26 miles west of downtown Austin [12], with commute times typically ranging from 30 to 45 minutes via Highway 290.
Dining and Shopping: Downtown Dripping Springs offers a charming small-town atmosphere with local restaurants, cafĂ©s, and shops [15]. Popular dining spots include Carmela’s Pizzeria CafĂ© & Deli, Abby Jane Bakeshop, Cousin Louie’s Italian Kitchen, and Rolling in Thyme & Dough [15]. The area is also home to craft breweries like Jester King and the famous Salt Lick BBQ in nearby Driftwood. Shopping includes boutiques like Cowgirls and Lace, Vintage Soul TX, and local farmers markets [15].
Lifestyle: Dripping Springs attracts families and professionals seeking a Hill Country lifestyle with excellent schools and a strong sense of community. The area is known for its wineries, breweries, distilleries, and outdoor recreation. Residents enjoy hiking, biking, and exploring the natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country. The town hosts community events, farmers markets, and festivals throughout the year.
5. Liberty Hill Independent School District
Located north of Austin, Liberty Hill ISD is a smaller, rapidly growing district that prides itself on fostering strong relationships between teachers and students. The district earned an “A” grade from the TEA with a score of 91 [2]. Liberty Hill ISD serves parts of Georgetown, Leander, and Liberty Hill, offering seven schools with a focus on creating responsible citizens through balanced education.
Housing and Neighborhoods: Liberty Hill offers more affordable housing compared to central Austin districts, with a mix of new construction in master-planned communities and rural properties on larger acreage. The area features modern suburban homes, ranch-style properties, and custom builds.
Proximity to Downtown: Liberty Hill is located approximately 35 to 40 miles northwest of downtown Austin, with commute times typically ranging from 45 to 60 minutes via Highway 183 and I-35.
Dining and Shopping: Liberty Hill maintains a small-town atmosphere with local restaurants, cafés, and shops. The nearby cities of Georgetown and Cedar Park offer additional dining and shopping options.
Lifestyle: Liberty Hill attracts families seeking affordable housing, excellent schools, and a tight-knit community atmosphere. The area offers a more rural feel with access to outdoor recreation and a slower pace of life while still being within commuting distance of Austin.
6. Lago Vista Independent School District
Serving the areas of Lago Vista and parts of Jonestown, Lago Vista ISD is a small district with approximately 1,500 students across four schools [5]. The district earned an “A” grade from the TEA with a score of 91 [2]. Lago Vista ISD offers personalized education with a supportive community atmosphere and provides a 20% homestead exemption [5].
Housing and Neighborhoods: Lago Vista is a lakeside community offering a range of housing from modest homes to lakefront properties on Lake Travis. The area features a mix of older homes and newer construction, with many properties offering water access or lake views.
Proximity to Downtown: Lago Vista is located approximately 35 to 40 miles northwest of downtown Austin, with commute times typically ranging from 45 to 60 minutes via Highway 1431 and FM 620.
Dining and Shopping: Lago Vista offers local dining and shopping options, with additional amenities available in nearby Jonestown and Cedar Park.
Lifestyle: Lago Vista attracts families and retirees seeking a lakeside lifestyle with access to boating, fishing, and water recreation. The community offers a relaxed, small-town atmosphere with lower housing costs compared to more central Austin locations.
7. Leander Independent School District
Leander ISD is one of the largest and fastest-growing districts in the Austin area, serving over 39,900 students [5]. The district earned a TEA grade of 89 [2] and is known for its wide range of programs in academics, athletics, and the arts. Leander ISD serves multiple communities including Leander, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Jonestown, and parts of Round Rock and Williamson County.
Housing and Neighborhoods: Leander and Cedar Park offer diverse housing options ranging from $485,000 to $788,000 [4]. Popular neighborhoods include Crystal Falls, Travisso, Avery Ranch, and Steiner Ranch, featuring modern suburban homes with community amenities like pools, parks, and trails. The area offers a mix of architectural styles from traditional to contemporary, with newer construction dominating many neighborhoods.
Proximity to Downtown: Leander and Cedar Park are located approximately 20 to 30 miles northwest of downtown Austin [11]. Commute times range from 30 to 50 minutes depending on the specific location and traffic conditions. The area is served by Capital Metro’s Red Line commuter rail, which connects Leander to downtown Austin [11].
Dining and Shopping: Cedar Park and Leander offer extensive dining and shopping options. Cedar Park Town Center and The Domain (just south in north Austin) provide upscale shopping and dining [14]. The area features a variety of restaurants, from local favorites to national chains, as well as breweries, entertainment venues, and family-friendly attractions. Downtown Cedar Park and Old Town Leander offer charming local shops and restaurants [10].
Lifestyle: Leander and Cedar Park attract young families and professionals seeking affordable housing, excellent schools, and suburban amenities. The area offers a strong sense of community with active neighborhood associations, community events, and family-friendly activities. Residents enjoy access to parks, trails, sports facilities, and entertainment venues. The area has experienced significant growth and development, with new businesses, restaurants, and amenities opening regularly [14].
8. Round Rock Independent School District
Round Rock ISD is one of the largest districts in Greater Austin, serving over 50,200 students across 35 elementary schools, 11 middle schools, and 7 high schools [5]. The district earned a TEA grade of 89 [2] and is known for its strong performance in science and social studies, as well as its diverse student body and numerous opportunities for student engagement.
Housing and Neighborhoods: Round Rock offers a wide range of housing options with a median price around $434,000 [4], making it one of the more affordable options among top-rated districts. The area features established neighborhoods with ranch-style homes, as well as newer master-planned communities with modern amenities. Architectural styles include traditional brick and stone exteriors, with three- to five-bedroom floor plans being typical [14].
Proximity to Downtown: Round Rock is located approximately 15 to 20 miles north of downtown Austin [11]. Commute times typically range from 25 to 45 minutes via I-35, with Capital Metro bus service (Route 980) connecting Round Rock to downtown Austin [11].
Dining and Shopping: Downtown Round Rock offers a vibrant mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment [16]. The historic downtown area features unique boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and live music venues. Round Rock Premium Outlets provides extensive shopping options, while The Domain (just south in north Austin) offers upscale retail and dining [16]. The city is famous for Round Rock Donuts, including the iconic Texas-sized donut [16]. Local restaurants range from casual dining to upscale cuisine, with a diverse array of international options.
Lifestyle: Round Rock attracts diverse families and professionals seeking affordable housing, excellent schools, and suburban convenience with easy access to Austin. The city offers a strong sense of community with numerous parks, sports facilities (including Dell Diamond, home of the Round Rock Express minor league baseball team), and community events [16]. The area has a thriving economy with major employers like Dell Technologies and a growing tech sector.
9. Austin Independent School District
Austin ISD is the largest district in the area and the fifth largest in Texas, serving over 86,000 students across 130 diverse school communities [5]. The district earned a “B” grade from the TEA with a score of 89 [2]. While the district’s overall rating is a “B”, it is home to several top-performing magnet and specialty schools, including the Liberal Arts and Science Academy (LASA), which consistently ranks among the best high schools in the nation [1].
Housing and Neighborhoods: Austin ISD covers 54.1% of the city’s territory [5], offering the most diverse range of housing options of any district. The median home price is approximately $559,000 [4], but this varies dramatically by neighborhood. Central Austin neighborhoods like Tarrytown, Clarksville, and Hyde Park feature historic homes, bungalows, and modern infill development with prices often exceeding $1 million. East Austin offers more affordable options with a mix of renovated historic homes and new construction. South Austin neighborhoods like Travis Heights and Zilker feature a bohemian vibe with diverse housing styles.
Proximity to Downtown: Austin ISD includes downtown Austin and surrounding neighborhoods, with distances ranging from 0 to 10 miles from the city center. Many neighborhoods offer walkable or bikeable access to downtown, with excellent public transportation options.
Dining and Shopping: Austin ISD encompasses the heart of Austin’s renowned dining and entertainment scene. The area includes South Congress (SoCo) with its eclectic shops and restaurants, East 6th Street’s entertainment district, the Rainey Street district, and countless neighborhoods with local restaurants, food trucks, cafĂ©s, and bars. Shopping ranges from vintage boutiques to high-end retailers, farmers markets, and local artisan shops.
Lifestyle: Austin ISD attracts a diverse population including young professionals, artists, musicians, families, and students seeking an urban lifestyle with access to Austin’s vibrant culture. Residents enjoy walkable neighborhoods, live music venues, cultural attractions, parks, and a thriving food scene. The area offers the most direct access to Austin’s job market, entertainment, and cultural amenities, making it ideal for those who prioritize urban living and cultural engagement.
10. Pflugerville Independent School District
Pflugerville ISD serves over 25,300 students across 13 elementary schools, 5 middle schools, 3 high schools, and 1 alternative education center [5]. The district encompasses approximately 95 square miles and earned a “B” grade from the TEA with a score of 89 [2]. Pflugerville ISD offers a student-teacher ratio of 15:1 and an average SAT score of 1270 [5].
Housing and Neighborhoods: Pflugerville offers affordable housing options compared to central Austin, with a variety of neighborhoods featuring modern suburban homes. Popular communities include Blackhawk, Falcon Pointe, and Springbrook, offering family-friendly amenities and well-maintained properties.
Proximity to Downtown: Pflugerville is located approximately 15 to 20 miles northeast of downtown Austin [17], with commute times typically ranging from 25 to 40 minutes via I-35 or Highway 130 (toll road).
Dining and Shopping: Pflugerville offers a growing selection of dining and shopping options, including local restaurants, cafĂ©s, and retail centers. The city hosts a farmers market featuring seasonal produce, artisanal goods, and live music [17]. Community events include Deutschen Pfest, celebrating the city’s German heritage. Nearby Round Rock and north Austin provide additional dining and shopping options.
Lifestyle: Pflugerville attracts families seeking affordable housing, good schools, and a family-friendly suburban environment [17]. The city offers numerous parks, trails, community pools, and sports facilities. Residents enjoy a strong sense of community with active neighborhood associations and family-oriented events. The area provides easier commutes compared to more distant suburbs while maintaining more affordable housing prices than central Austin.
How to Research School Districts
Homebuyers can access a wealth of information about school districts from a variety of online resources. Websites like Niche.com, GreatSchools.org, and SchoolDigger.com provide detailed data on school performance, student demographics, and parent reviews [6]. The Texas Education Agency (TEA) website is another valuable resource, offering access to official accountability ratings and other data for all public schools and districts in the state.
When researching school districts, consider visiting schools in person, attending open houses, and speaking with current parents and students. Many districts offer tours and information sessions for prospective families. Additionally, consider factors beyond test scores, such as extracurricular offerings, special programs, school culture, and community involvement.
Alternatives to Traditional Public Schools
For families who find that homes in top-rated districts are beyond their budget, or whose dream home is located in a lower-performing district, there are alternatives to consider. Public school choice options include magnet schools (over 4,300 nationwide, focusing on specific areas like STEM or arts), charter schools (public, independently run schools with no tuition), and open enrollment programs that allow transfers to schools outside of one’s assigned district [6]. Private school options are also available, with various financial assistance programs including education savings accounts, school vouchers, and tax-credit scholarships [6].
Conclusion
Choosing the right school district is a deeply personal decision that depends on a variety of factors, from academic priorities to lifestyle preferences, commute considerations, and budget. The Austin area offers a wide range of excellent options, from the high-achieving, affluent communities of Eanes and Lake Travis close to downtown, to the smaller, tight-knit Hill Country districts of Wimberley and Dripping Springs, to the affordable suburban options of Round Rock, Leander, and Pflugerville.
Each district offers its own unique combination of academic excellence, community character, housing options, and lifestyle amenities. By conducting thorough research, visiting neighborhoods, and carefully considering their priorities, homebuyers can find a community and school district that is the perfect fit for their family’s needs and aspirations.
References
[1] LRG Realty. (2025, May 8). Austin School Districts Homebuyers Guide. https://lrgrealty.com/lrg-blog/austin-school-districts-homebuyers-guide
[2] Move to Austin. (n.d.). The Best School Districts In The Austin Area. https://www.movetoaustin.org/blog/best-school-districts-in-the-austin/
[3] Bramlett Partners. (2024, March 19). Dripping Springs Schools: Achieving Excellence in Education. https://bramlettpartners.com/blog/dripping-springs-schools-achieving-excellence-in-education
[4] Kathryn Scarborough Real Estate. (n.d.). Westlake / Eanes ISD, TX. https://kathrynscarborough.com/neighborhoods/westlake-hills
[5] Spyglass Realty. (2022, February 22). 10 Best School Districts in Austin, TX (Compared). https://www.spyglassrealty.com/blog/best-school-districts-austin-tx.html
[6] Premier Mortgage Associates. (n.d.). 5 Things Homebuyers Should Know About School Districts. https://www.premiermtg.com/5-things-homebuyers-should-know-about-school-districts/
[7] Leah Petri. (n.d.). Top 10 Restaurants in West Lake Hills, TX. https://leahpetri.com/blog/top-10-restaurants-in-west-lake-hills-tx-where-to-eat-west-of-austin-in-2025
[8] Andrea Harlan. (n.d.). Westlake Area Shopping. https://www.westlakeaustin.com/westlake-area-shopping/
[9] Forbes. (2024, March 23). Austin, Texas’ Wealthy Find Their Perfect Setting In West Lake Hills. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes-global-properties/2024/03/23/austin-texas-wealthy-find-their-perfect-setting-in-west-lake-hills/
[10] Bramlett Partners. (2022, March 7). Best Lake Travis Neighborhoods. https://bramlettpartners.com/blog/popular-lake-travis-neighborhoods
[11] Riding With Agents. (2024, November 15). Commuting to Downtown Austin From the Suburbs. https://www.ridingwithagents.com/blog/commuting-to-downtown-austin-from-the-suburbs
[12] Rome2Rio. (n.d.). Downtown Austin to Dripping Springs. https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Downtown-Austin/Dripping-Springs
[13] Hotel Flora and Fauna. (2024, January 3). Exploring Wimberley Square. https://www.hotelfloraandfauna.com/exploring-wimberley-square/
[14] Bramlett Partners. (2023, September 15). Comparing Leander vs Round Rock for Austin Suburb Living. https://bramlettpartners.com/blog/comparing-leander-vs-round-rock-for-austin-suburb-living-in-2023
[15] Destination Dripping Springs. (n.d.). Restaurants and Cafes. https://www.destinationdrippingsprings.com/businesses/dining/restaurants-and-cafes
[16] Downtown Round Rock Texas. (n.d.). Home. https://downtownroundrocktexas.com/
[17] LRG Realty. (2025, May 1). Pflugerville’s Best Neighborhoods for Families. https://lrgrealty.com/lrg-blog/pflugervilles-best-neighborhoods
