Best School Districts Near Austin for Families
The Austin metro’s school districts vary significantly in size, performance, and character. Texas’s independent school district structure means multiple districts serve the metro, each with its own tax rates, facilities, and programming. Here’s your guide to the top options.
Eanes Independent School District
Eanes ISD, serving Westlake Hills, Rollingwood, and portions of west Austin, is consistently rated among the top districts in Texas. Westlake High School is renowned for academic excellence, athletics (particularly football), and comprehensive extracurricular programs. The district’s small size and affluent community contribute to strong per-student resources.
Housing in Eanes ISD is the most expensive in the Austin metro, typically ranging from $700,000 to well over $1 million. The district’s reputation drives significant housing demand.
Round Rock Independent School District
Round Rock ISD is one of the largest and most highly rated districts in Central Texas. The district serves Round Rock, portions of north Austin, and surrounding communities. Multiple high schools including Westwood and McNeil have earned recognition for strong academics.
Housing in Round Rock ISD ranges from $300,000 to $600,000, making it one of the best value propositions for school quality in the metro. The district’s size provides diverse programming options. Explore suburban communities within the district.
Leander Independent School District
Leander ISD serves Cedar Park, Leander, and portions of northwest Austin. The district has grown rapidly and invested heavily in new facilities and programming. Vista Ridge and Vandegrift high schools have established strong reputations.
Housing in Leander ISD ranges from $300,000 to $550,000, providing accessible family options with quality schools. The district’s growth trajectory suggests continued investment.
Lake Travis Independent School District
Lake Travis ISD serves Lakeway and the Lake Travis area west of Austin. The district is known for strong academics and outstanding athletics (the Lake Travis Cavaliers football program is nationally recognized). The lakeside setting adds lifestyle appeal.
Housing ranges from $400,000 to $800,000, with lakefront properties commanding premium prices.
Dripping Springs Independent School District
Dripping Springs ISD has earned recognition as one of the top-performing smaller districts in Central Texas. The Hill Country community’s strong school system is a primary driver of its growth. Housing ranges from $350,000 to $700,000.
Austin Independent School District (AISD)
AISD serves Austin proper and is the region’s largest district. Quality varies significantly between schools, but strong options include LASA (Liberal Arts and Science Academy—consistently ranked among the nation’s top public high schools), Austin High School, and Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders.
The district’s magnet and transfer programs provide flexibility for families willing to navigate the system. Housing in AISD ranges widely, and the best neighborhoods include zones with strong school access.
The Property Tax Factor
Remember that Texas school districts levy their own property taxes, and rates vary between districts. The property tax guide provides details on how these rates affect your total housing cost.
The Bottom Line
Austin’s school landscape offers excellent options across a range of budgets. Top suburban districts like Eanes and Lake Travis command premiums, while Round Rock and Leander offer strong quality at more accessible prices. AISD’s magnet programs provide urban alternatives. Factor school district tax rates alongside academic quality when comparing options.