West Lake Hills

Welcome to West Lake Hills

A closed-in suburb with an independent streak.

Occupying four square miles, West Lake Hills has retained its autonomy even as Austin has literally grown up around it. Case in point: residents here enjoy some of the lowest property taxes in the state.

Lakefront homes below a wooded hillside dotted with residences and a communications tower.

Children playing on swings in a grassy playground beside a stone retaining wall.

Brick retail building with Southwest Vision and Beehive storefronts and cars parked out front.

Woman holding a small dog among plants at a sunlit nursery.

What to Expect

Palatial hillside homes and Friday-night fandom.

West Lake Hills boasts a number of no-expense-spared estates perched along some of the area’s highest topography. It’s also known for an abundance of spirited boosters devoted to supporting the area’s nine award-winning schools, not to mention the Westlake Chaparrals high school football team, which often makes a run at the state title. Win or lose, don’t be surprised to see fellow Chaps fans enjoying the area’s moderate year-round temps on the patios of local restaurants.

Homes dot a densely wooded hillside beneath a cloudy sky.

People gather at picnic tables on a covered patio around a large tree.

Child playing on a blue spring rocker beside a green playground rocker.

Woman eating a burger at a restaurant table beside a red-and-white drink cup.

The Lifestyle

Busy days, quiet nights, and ample amenities.

Once considered the outskirts of town, West Lake Hills still feels like an escape from the city, albeit one with the conveniences of a bustling suburb. And while you may not find any late-night spots, there are plenty of cherished eateries, like Texas Honey Ham and Blue Dahlia, and an array of independent boutiques dotted amid national chains.

Woman browsing clothing racks and holding up a gray plaid jacket.

Two toasted sandwiches with layered fillings on a turquoise tray.

Outdoor patio with café tables and chairs beneath a wooden pergola, surrounded by leafy trees.

Coffee shop counter with baristas, espresso machines, pastry displays, and wooden stools.

Unexpected Appeal

Being surrounded by the natural Hill Country splendor–and those views.

The well-named West Lake Hills is loaded with scenic vistas, and if you’re lucky you’ll be able to see downtown’s growing skyline from your porch. Plus, there’s easy access to the Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve as well as the picturesque trails that run through the Barton Creek Greenbelt, a favorite among hikers, bikers, and rock climbers.

Modern home overlooking downtown Austin’s skyline, with wooded hills in the distance.

The Market

Multi-million-dollar estates but also modest fixer-uppers.

The little more than a thousand homes in this area were largely built in the seventies and eighties, when development was booming, but there are plenty of restored and new-build contemporary stunners tucked into these wooded hills. A one-acre minimum is required to build a home here, and you can expect generous interior floor plans too.

Modern multi-story home with glass balconies, wood soffits, and a dark garage door, framed by mature trees.

Modern stone house framed by mature trees, with landscaped lawn and an address marker reading 2402.

Two-story white house with a columned entrance and leafless trees framing the front lawn.

Two-story home with a central entrance, broad paved walkway, and mature trees framing the facade.

You'll Fall in Love With

The vitality of this thriving community.

It’s not just the strong school district and stadium-packing athletic programs that make West Lake Hills an ideal place to raise a family. The laidback community vibe, kid-friendly restaurants, and spacious homes all make this a great place to grow roots and thrive.

A neighborhood playground beneath mature oak trees, with children playing beside a covered pavilion.

Welcome to West Lake Hills﻿