Best Places to Live in Texas Hill Country: Discover the Best Hill Country Towns
You’ll find some of the best places to live in Texas Hill Country, a beautiful, sprawling region covering 25 counties and approximately 31,000 square miles. While a convenient drive from San Antonio and Austin, Hill Country maintains its rural roots via small towns that exude Southern hospitality and outdoor adventure.
This part of the Lone Star State is a slice of heaven on earth for those lucky enough to call it home, and in this guide, we give you our curated list of the best Texas Hill Country towns to live in.
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Best Places to Live in Texas Hill Country
Best Places to Live in Texas Hill Country
With over 50 cities in the region, each with unique attractions and histories, choosing the best places to live in Hill Country, Texas, is almost impossible. But we did it! We considered the cost of living, the housing market, local attractions, and overall things to do to come up with what we believe to be the very best places to live in Texas Hill Country.
Georgetown, TX
Located just 25 miles north of Austin, Georgetown is a lovely spot where the cost of living is 3% lower than the national average, according to Payscale as of January 2024. If you're considering putting down roots, the median sale price of a home in Georgetown was $422K in November 2023, showing a modest 0.67% decrease since last year, as reported by Redfin.
Georgetown is a hub for art, breweries, and outdoor adventures. Art enthusiasts can roam numerous galleries, while wine and beer connoisseurs can indulge in the local wineries and breweries.
For nature lovers, Georgetown is a paradise. From exploring caves to taking in the beauty of Crockett Garden Falls, the Blue Hole, and Lake Georgetown, outdoor activities are abundant. Living here is an ideal base for those who love hiking, swimming, or simply enjoying Georgetown’s natural surroundings.
If you envision making this area your home, picture your life in one of our new construction homes in Georgetown.
New Braunfels, TX
New Braunfels, Texas, sits about 30 miles from San Antonio and 50 miles from Austin, offering convenient access to these major cities, their suburbs, and business hubs. According to the Economic Research Institute’s October 2023 data, the cost of living in New Braunfels is 2% lower than the national average. Additionally, Redfin finds the area’s median home sale price is $369K as of November 2023, reflecting a modest 2.2% increase since last year.
Residents can enjoy access to numerous outdoor activities, including exploring caves, wine country, hiking, and river floating. Families are drawn to New Braunfels for its kid-friendly activities at Canyon Lake, Lake McQueeney, and the Comal River, with boating, skiing, and tubing opportunities. Schlitterbahn, one of the nation's top water parks, adds thrilling excitement to the mix.
The city's growing art, food, and music scene showcases TexMex, Texan BBQ, and traditional German cuisine, reflecting its heritage. First Fridays in Downtown and the iconic Gruene Hall, Texas's oldest dance hall, also contribute to New Braunfels’ culture and entertainment options.
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San Marcos, TX
San Marcos is a wonderful blend of history, culture, and outdoor attractions. If you're considering a move, the cost of living here is 3% lower than the national average in January 2024, per Payscale, making it an attractive option. As of November 2023, homes in San Marcos come with a median price tag of $347K, reflecting a 0.6% increase from the previous year, according to Redfin.
San Marcos takes pride in its multicultural roots, with influences from Hispanic, African-American, German, and Anglo communities. You can catch glimpses of this rich history at attractions like the Commemorative Air Force Exhibit and the LBJ Museum of San Marcos.
Downtown San Marcos has numerous dining spots, local boutiques, and eye-catching giant murals. Oh, and did we mention the seven-foot-tall mermaids? They add a whimsical touch to the city's cultural charm. For those who love the outdoors, the San Marcos River is a playground for tubing, floating, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.
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Marble Falls, TX
Marble Falls, situated on the picturesque Colorado River, is 58 miles northwest of downtown Austin and 85 miles north of San Antonio, which makes it a hub in the middle of the Highland Lakes area, the largest chain of lakes in Texas.
While the cost of living in Marble Falls is 6.4% higher than the national average as of December 2023, according to Salary.com, residents appreciate the area’s abundant natural beauty. As for the housing market in Marble Falls, December 2023’s median home sale price was $350K, down 3% from last year, as reported by Redfin.
Contrary to its name, Marble Falls is known for its abundant granite, not marble. The town's location on the Colorado River provides a natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts, from exploring Lake Marble Falls to enjoying the wonders of Krause Springs, Longhorn Cavern, and INKS Lake State Park.
Marble Falls offers a mix of recreational and cultural attractions, including the Eagle Eye Observatory for stargazing, Bear King Brewing, Iron Wolf Distillery, and the lively Main Street with its shops, dining options, and self-proclaimed "world's best toffee."
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Dripping Springs, TX
Known as the "gateway to Hill Country," Dripping Springs is just 23 miles west of Austin. Per Payscale, as of January 2023, Dripping Springs offers a cost of living 3% lower than the national average. Redfin notes the median home sale price was $718K in November 2023, reflecting a significant 16.3% increase since last year.
Dripping Springs is bursting with natural wonders, such as Pedernales Falls State Park, Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center, and Hamilton Pool Reserve. Wine aficionados will find joy in touring vineyards like Bell Springs Winery, or you can sample spirits at various distilleries, breweries, and tasting rooms like Deep Eddy Vodka.
Live music is a staple in Dripping Springs, where you can find it almost everywhere, from outdoor venues to bars and restaurants.
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Round Rock, TX
Round Rock is a well-known outdoorsy city where the cost of living is 8% lower than the national average, making it an economical and recreational place to call home, according to Payscale’s January 2024 data. Plus, the November 2023 median home sale price in Round Rock was $425K, reflecting a 5.2% decrease since last year, per Redfin.
Additionally, Round Rock is a big business hub, home to major employers like Dell, Round Rock Premium Outlets, Amazon, and UPS. The downtown area is charming and has plenty of shops, dining spots, and outdoor entertainment. Whether you stroll through quaint streets or attend one of the outdoor concerts and wine festivals, the downtown scene offers an enchanting atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.
For those contemplating a move to this area, imagine life in one of Pulte's innovative new construction homes in Round Rock.
Boerne, TX
Boerne, a hidden gem north of San Antonio, is conveniently located off Interstate 10. With a cost of living that's a remarkable 17% lower than the national average as of January 2024, according to Payscale, Boerne is an appealing destination for those seeking affordability and small-town charm. Redfin reports the median home sale price in November 2023 was $552K, down 3.6% from last year.
Boerne's roots run deep, dating back 150 years when German immigrants first settled in the area. The rich German culture still thrives, adding a unique and historical touch to this picturesque town. Popular activities include Hill Country food tours, Boerne walking tours, and shopping at the Hill Country Mile. Nature enthusiasts can venture into natural living caves or paddle and tube on the scenic Boerne City Lake Park.
This San Antonio suburb blends old-world charm and modern convenience, featuring a mix of new and older homes. If you're in the market, our new construction homes in Boerne Farms showcase the latest new build houses in the area.
Wimberley, TX
Located 38 miles southwest of Austin, Wimberley is a lovely town with a 3% lower cost of living than the national average as of January 2024, according to Payscale, and has become home to many writers, artists, and musicians. Redfin reports that in November 2023, home prices were down 42.4% compared to the previous year, with a median price of $605K.
Wimberley is renowned for its vibrant community and unique attractions. Every first Saturday of the month from March through December, Lions Field comes alive with Market Days, attracting bargain hunters and shoppers from all over to explore the 475+ booths with a variety of products.
Nature enthusiasts also find plenty to love in Wimberley. From the iconic Jacob's Well swimming hole to the scenic trails of Old Baldy/Prayer Mountain, the town is perfect for outdoor activities. Nearby lavender fields, wineries, and vineyards provide additional opportunities for exploration.
Fredericksburg, TX
Fredericksburg is a place for those who appreciate a fusion of history, culture, and outdoor adventures. This delightful town, founded by German immigrants, carries a rich past that echoes through its streets and landmarks. Fredericksburg showcases its German roots in attractions like the Pioneer Museum and Vereins Kirche Museum, which share the stories of the first German immigrants.
Along with history, Fredericksburg offers diverse amenities and attractions, with Main Street and the warehouse district appealing to shoppers with a blend of unique stores. The town is a gateway to over 60 wineries in Gillespie County, making it a wine lover's paradise. Nature enthusiasts can explore the rugged beauty of Enchanted Rock, a popular spot for hiking and rock climbing. For entertainment, check out the lineup at Rockbox Theater, where major concerts provide a thrilling experience for music fans.
In Fredericksburg, Texas, the cost of living is about on par with the national average, according to Salary.com as of December 2023. As for the housing market, Redfin finds that in November 2023, home prices were down 2.0% compared to the previous year, with a median price of $575K.
Buda, TX
Buda, Texas, is a small town located 15 miles south of downtown Austin, along the I-35 Corridor in the scenic Texas Hill Country, with a 3% lower cost of living than the national average in January 2024, according to Payscale. The median home sale price was $413K in November 2023, reflecting a 12.7% decrease since last year, as reported by Redfin.
Once a small railroad stop, Buda has evolved into a captivating town with a historic downtown featuring the Stagecoach House & Park and unique shopping options. Buda takes pride in its green spaces, earning the “Outdoor Capital of Texas” title from the Texas State Legislature.
Nature fans will find plenty to explore in Buda, like the 54-acre Historic Stagecoach Park with walking trails and scenic features. Buda City Park is a hub for festivals and events, providing a community atmosphere. Athletes and sports families can enjoy the Jackson Tyler Norris Memorial Skate Park and the Buda Sportsplex, catering to baseball, softball, and various sporting events.
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San Antonio, TX
As of January 2024, San Antonio stands out as the most affordable “big city” in Texas, with its cost of living 8% lower than the national average, per Payscale’s data. The average home price in November 2023 was approximately $356K, down 4.6%, as reported by Redfin.
Despite being one of the state’s larger cities, San Antonio retains a distinctive charm rooted in its Native American history.
San Antonio offers a wealth of cultural and recreational attractions. The iconic San Antonio River Walk, the historic Alamo, Natural Bridge Caverns, Mission San Jose, the San Antonio Botanical Garden, and the San Antonio Museum of Art are just a few highlights. For dining, must-visit restaurants include Clementine, Southerleigh Fine Food and Brewery, and Rosario's.
If this city’s affordability and eclectic vibe have you thinking about a permanent stay, consider living in the heart of the action with one of Pulte's new construction homes in San Antonio, Texas.
Austin, TX
Austin, the Texas state capital, is known for its music and food culture, technology, and outdoorsy lifestyle. According to the Council for Community and Economic Research’s September 2023 data, Austin's cost of living is just 1% higher than the national average but 10% higher than the state average. Per Redfin, the median home sale price was $525K in November 2023, reflecting a modest 0.76% decrease from last year.
Austin is renowned for its diverse entertainment options. Whether you're into live music in coffeehouses, bars, and concert halls, exploring Wonderspaces, paddling or kayaking on Lady Bird Lake, or experiencing the unusual nightlife in the Rainey Street District, Austin has something for everyone. And for those who appreciate the finer things, The Domain offers high-end shopping and dining experiences.
Foodies are drawn to Austin for its celebrated culinary scene, with top recommendations including Salty Sow, Bar Chi Sushi, and Buenos Aires. The city also offers unique experiences like pub crawls and tasting tours of Texas Hill Country distilleries, so there's never a dull moment in the "Live Music Capital of the World."
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Conclusion
While there are many more options in the Texas Hill Country, these towns and cities are some of the best. If you're searching for the most affordable spots, consider exploring San Antonio, Round Rock, and Boerne, where the cost of living is below the national average.
For homebuyers seeking unlimited outdoor activities, Dripping Springs stands out as the gateway to Hill Country, offering tons of outdoor adventure. You can’t go wrong in any of these cities, though, as they’re all surrounded by plenty of boating, hiking, and other outdoor options.
If a town with a diverse food scene is your priority, check out Austin, Fredericksburg, and New Braunfels.
As for the best overall choice, each town in the Texas Hill Country brings its unique charm. Still, if you’re looking for one of the best small towns to live in Texas Hill Country, New Braunfels tops our list. It epitomizes the essence of affordability, outdoor adventures, a vibrant food scene, ample activities, and proximity to major cities.
To decide for yourself, explore new construction homes in Texas today or browse more Pulte blogs.
Written By: Jordan Thomson, Orange County-based Freelance Writer
Last Updated: 3/29/2024