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Austin, Texas! You know about the outdoor life on Lady Bird Johnson Lake, the tech scene of SXSW and Tesla, and the live music at ACL and Stubb’s. It’s home to the University of Texas Longhorns, Austin FC at Q2 Stadium, and the Round Rock Express. It’s no wonder Austin is growing at a breakneck pace, its real estate market is booming, and numerous Austin neighborhoods are a great place to call home.
But what you might not know is that many who are relocating to Austin are moving to East Austin, a hub of diverse neighborhoods, great food, and local history.
Let’s dive into what makes East Austin such a popular place to call home—its history and the neighborhoods. And if you’re looking to move, whether locally within Austin or across the country, Bellhop has you covered.
East Austin – History and Demographics
East Austin has a rich history that reflects the city’s cultural diversity. In the early to mid-20th century, it was a predominantly African American and Hispanic neighborhood. African American families, in particular, faced segregation and discriminatory practices, leading to the establishment of a close-knit community with a strong sense of identity. The area was known for its vibrant music scene, with iconic venues like the Victory Grill contributing to the development of Austin’s unique musical heritage.
Over the years, East Austin has undergone significant changes, marked by urban development and gentrification. The construction of Interstate 35 in the mid-20th century physically divided East Austin from the rest of the city, impacting the community and contributing to economic challenges.
However, East Austin’s proximity to Lady Bird Lake to the south, the University of Texas and central Austin just to the west, and a booming Downtown (including the popular Rainey Street District), have led to a revitalization in the past few decades. Restaurants, apartment complexes, music venues like the Scoot Inn, and students flooded into East Austin. Whether via public transportation, bike, car, or walking, it’s easy to get around the neighborhood. These days, the demographics of East Austin stand at about 41.5% white, 35.4% Hispanic, 18.5% black, and 2.4% Asian.
Let’s delve into just some of the neighborhoods of East Austin.
East Cesar Chavez
Just south of the famous nightlife spot East 6th Street, East Cesar Chavez has a rich cultural history and is known for its artistic flair. The neighborhood features colorful murals, local art galleries, and a mix of historic and modern architecture. It has a diverse community, and Austinites often praise it for its walkability.
The area offers a variety of locally-owned shops, restaurants, boutiques, and coffee shops. The food scene especially is amazing—East Side King, Sushi | Bar ATX, Juniper, and Ezov are some of the city’s most notable restaurants. Mainstays like Mr. Natural have been there for years. It’s close to Lady Bird Lake, providing outdoor recreational opportunities, and is within easy reach of downtown Austin, just over I-35.
Locals send their children to Zavala Elementary School, then Martin Middle School, then finally the well-known Eastside Memorial High School.
The average one-bedroom in East Cesar Chavez rents for $1,735 per month, while the average home price hovers around $700,000.
Holly
The Holly neighborhood has undergone significant revitalization in recent years. It’s a mix of residential and commercial spaces, with modern developments blending in with the existing character of the area. The proximity to the waterfront and parks adds to its appeal.
Holly is known for its access to outdoor spaces, including the Fiesta Gardens and Edward Rendon Sr. Park at Festival Beach. The neighborhood also has a growing number of local businesses, cafes, and eateries. Mainstay Juan in a Million serves up classic Mexican-American cuisine like fresh carnitas tacos, and newer restaurants like Sweet Chive and Launderette cater to the new and diverse eastside population. Numerous food trucks are also scattered all over Holly, serving up cheap and interesting new food.
Median rent in Holly is $2,275 for a one bedroom and the median home value stands at $884,500.
Mueller
Mueller is a master-planned community built on the site of the former Robert Mueller Municipal Airport. It’s known for its sustainable design, modern homes, and a walkable layout. The neighborhood emphasizes green spaces, community events, and a diverse range of housing options for young professionals or families. Townhomes, row houses, single family homes on small lots, and larger condos and apartments are still being built to this day in Mueller.
Mueller boasts a central park, community pool, and a town center with shopping and dining options. The area is also home to Dell Children’s Medical Center and the Thinkery, a children’s museum. Numerous restaurants, bars, and breweries dot Mueller, like Veracruza Fonda and Bar, Lazarus Brewing, L’Oca d’Oro, Colleen’s Kitchen (a fantastic brunch spot), and Aviator Pizza cater to the many families and young folks who call Mueller home. Meanwhile, the area continues to build up and many new restaurants, parks, and amenities will soon be online. There’s even a golf course at Mueller’s southeast corner!
Parents in Mueller send their young ones to either Maplewood Elementary School or Blanton Elementary School, then to Kealing Middle School or Marshall Middle School (just finished!), then finally renowned McCallum High School.
Mueller average rent for a one bedroom is $1,722, and the average home price was about $929,000.
Rosewood
Rosewood Neighborhood in Austin, Texas | Bellhop
Rosewood is a historic neighborhood with a strong sense of community. It features a mix of architectural styles, including bungalows and Craftsman-style homes. The neighborhood has seen revitalization efforts while retaining its cultural and historical significance. Austin is known for its BBQ, and legendary restaurant Sam’s BBQ has been slinging BBQ in Rosewood for nearly forty years.
Rosewood is centered around the Boggy Creek Greenbelt, which provides a natural escape and bike trail right outside the doorstep, and the neighborhood hosts numerous events that celebrate its diverse community.
The community sends its students to Blackshear Elementary School, then Kealing Middle School, and finally McCallum High School.
The average one bedroom runs at $2,088, and the average home sells for about $680,000.
Cherrywood
Just south of Mueller is Cherrywood, a cozy neighborhood renowned for its sense of community and bungalows. Cherrywood features Patterson Park, known for its playgrounds and green spaces, a close proximity to the University of Texas, and Cherrywood Art Fair, an annual community event showcasing local artists.
On the southern edge of Cherrywood is the Manor Road entertainment district with diverse dining options like Mi Madre’s, Patrizi’s, and Este. Anchoring the north edge of Cherrywood is the legendary Cherrywood Coffeehouse, a popular spot for coffee, art, live music, and gatherings.
Residents attend either Maplewood Elementary School or Campbell Elementary School, then they’re on to Kealing Middle School and McCallum High School.
Cherrywood’s average one bedroom rents for $2,144 per month, and the median home price is $667,000.
Move to East Austin!
A quick walk to downtown, a hop across the lake to south Austin and Zilker Park, a thriving restaurant and community scene of its own—east Austin can’t be beat. Numerous East Austin neighborhoods are a great place to call home.
The Austin area has all you might want in a new home, so if you need local Austin Movers or need long-distance Austin movers, Bellhop has you covered. Happy moving!
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