A Strategic Perspective on Tarrytown, Westlake Hills, and Rollingwood
Question: Is West Austin a good place to buy a home?
Answer: West Austin is widely considered one of the most desirable areas to buy a home in Austin because it offers proximity to downtown, established neighborhoods like Tarrytown and Rollingwood, access to highly regarded schools in Westlake Hills, and strong long-term property value stability. Many buyers choose West Austin real estate for its combination of location, lifestyle, and mature residential neighborhoods.
Why Buyers Continue to Choose West Austin
After more than twenty years working as an Austin real estate broker, one thing I’ve consistently seen is that West Austin behaves a little differently than the rest of the city.
Austin continues to grow quickly, and new neighborhoods appear every year. But established areas in West Austin, particularly Tarrytown, Westlake Hills, and Rollingwood, continue to attract buyers who value location, lifestyle, and long-term stability.
There are a few reasons for that.
First is location. West Austin sits just minutes from downtown, the University of Texas, and some of the city’s most popular outdoor spaces. Buyers who want convenience without living in the middle of dense urban development often gravitate here.
Second is limited supply. Much of West Austin developed decades ago, and there simply isn’t much undeveloped land remaining. When housing inventory is limited and demand remains steady, property values tend to hold over time.
And finally there is lifestyle. Living near Lake Austin, Zilker Park, and the hike and bike trail creates a daily lifestyle that many buyers prioritize when choosing where to live.
Key West Austin Neighborhoods
Tarrytown Tarrytown is one of Austin’s most classic neighborhoods. Tree-lined streets, historic homes, and close proximity to Lake Austin give the area a timeless character that many buyers find appealing.
Westlake Hills Westlake Hills offers larger properties, hill country views, and access to Eanes Independent School District, one of the top public school districts in Texas.
Rollingwood Rollingwood sits just west of Zilker Park and downtown Austin. It offers a neighborhood feel with larger lots and easy access to outdoor recreation.
From My Experience
Over the years I’ve watched buyers choose West Austin for many different reasons: schools, proximity to downtown, or simply the feel of established neighborhoods. What stands out most is that many homeowners stay in these communities for decades, which says a lot about the long-term appeal of the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is West Austin expensive compared to other parts of Austin? Yes, West Austin home prices are generally higher than the Austin average because of location, schools, and limited housing inventory.
Is Tarrytown a good place to buy a home? Tarrytown remains one of Austin’s most desirable neighborhoods due to its proximity to downtown, mature trees, and long-term property value stability.
Brandy Finnessey is an Austin real estate broker with over 20 years of experience specializing in West Austin neighborhoods including Tarrytown, Westlake Hills, and Rollingwood. She serves clients through The Finnessey Group at Sotheby's International Realty.
