The best luxury neighborhoods in Austin include Westlake, Barton Creek, Tarrytown, Pemberton Heights, and Spanish Oaks. Each offers a distinct lifestyle—from hill country privacy and gated communities to walkable central estates and top-rated schools. The right neighborhood depends on priorities like privacy, proximity to downtown, school zoning, and long-term value.
Luxury in Austin isn’t defined by price alone. The most desirable neighborhoods typically share:
Limited inventory and strong resale value
Privacy, views, or estate-sized lots
Proximity to downtown, top schools, or lifestyle amenities
Architectural consistency and long-term desirability
Below are five neighborhoods that consistently stand out for luxury buyers in Austin.
Best for: Top-rated schools, privacy, hill country views
Westlake remains one of Austin’s most prestigious luxury neighborhoods. Located just west of downtown, it offers expansive homes, large lots, and access to Eanes ISD, one of the highest-rated school districts in Texas.
Luxury homes in Westlake range from timeless estates to contemporary hill country designs, often with gated entries and panoramic views. Limited inventory and strong school zoning help protect long-term value.
Best for: Gated living, golf communities, resort-style privacy
Barton Creek is ideal for buyers seeking a secluded, upscale lifestyle surrounded by nature. Many homes are located within gated communities and offer access to private golf clubs, greenbelt views, and expansive floor plans.
This neighborhood appeals to buyers prioritizing privacy, security, and space—while still being within a reasonable drive to downtown Austin.
Best for: Central location, established estates, timeless appeal
Tarrytown is one of Austin’s most iconic luxury neighborhoods. Located minutes from downtown, it offers mature trees, historic homes, and a mix of classic estates and thoughtfully updated residences.
Luxury buyers are drawn to Tarrytown for its walkability, proximity to Lady Bird Lake, and long-term desirability. Inventory is limited, which contributes to strong pricing stability.
Best for: Historic character, exclusivity, central Austin living
Pemberton Heights is a smaller, highly exclusive neighborhood known for grand historic homes and estate-sized lots. Located near downtown and the University of Texas, it offers a refined, old-Austin feel with enduring architectural charm.
Luxury homes here are rarely available, making this neighborhood especially appealing to buyers seeking legacy properties in central Austin.
Best for: Gated luxury, modern estates, resort-style amenities
Spanish Oaks is one of Austin’s premier gated luxury communities. Known for newer construction, custom homes, and resort-level amenities, it offers privacy, security, and a cohesive luxury environment.
Many homes feature contemporary architecture, large lots, and access to private golf, making Spanish Oaks popular with executives and buyers relocating from other major luxury markets.
The “best” luxury neighborhood in Austin depends on lifestyle priorities:
Schools & resale value: Westlake
Privacy & gated living: Barton Creek or Spanish Oaks
Walkability & central access: Tarrytown or Pemberton Heights
Modern estates & amenities: Spanish Oaks
Each neighborhood serves a different buyer profile, which is why local expertise matters when navigating Austin’s luxury market.
As Austin luxury real estate advisors, we guide buyers through more than just pricing—we help match lifestyle, long-term value, and neighborhood dynamics. Understanding how each luxury area performs over time is key to making a confident decision.
If you’re exploring luxury neighborhoods in Austin and want guidance tailored to your goals, we’re happy to help.
— The Pettitt Group | Austin Luxury Real Estate
Compass
2500 Bee Cave Rd
Bldg. 3 #200, Austin, TX 78746
The Pettitt Group