Austin Neighborhood Guide: Travis Country
Exploring a Serene Urban Oasis
This Article is Part of Our A-Z Austin Neigherborhood Guide
Nestled in the vibrant city of Austin, Travis Country stands out as a quiet, family-friendly neighborhood surrounded by nature. With its rolling greenbelts and trails for hiking, it offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle without compromising on accessibility to downtown and the airport. The property tax rate in Southwest Austin's Travis Country neighborhood is 1.8092% as of the 2023 tax year, down from 1.9749% as of the 2022 tax year.
Travis Country is known for its diverse range of homes, from those built in the mid to late 70s to more modern custom builds. It's a community that fosters a strong sense of camaraderie and provides numerous recreational opportunities. Its proximity to other desirable neighborhoods such as Regents Hills adds to its appeal.
For those considering a move, Travis Country offers a compelling blend of tranquility and convenience, making it a prime choice for families and professionals alike.
Discover Travis Country
Travis Country, nestled in Southwest Austin, Texas, is known for its family-friendly environment, lush green spaces, and strong sense of community. It boasts a rich history, prime location, and vibrant lifestyle, making it a desirable place to live.
History and Development
Travis Country began development in the mid-1970s and continued through the late 1990s. During these years, the neighborhood saw construction primarily by custom home builders, including J.W. Smith. The area was thoughtfully planned to retain much of its natural green spaces. Originally one of Austin's first environmentally planned neighborhoods, it combines modern living with the charm of preserved landscapes. Throughout its development, various housing styles emerged, catering to diverse family needs and preferences.
Geographical Location
Situated in Southwest Austin, Travis Country offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. It is located within close proximity to downtown Austin and Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, providing easy access to city amenities while maintaining a peaceful setting. The neighborhood is surrounded by greenbelts and trails, contributing to its serene atmosphere. This strategic location allows residents to enjoy both the bustling city life and the quiet comfort of a suburban community.
Community and Lifestyle
The community in Travis Country is known for being friendly, peaceful, and safe. It features amenities such as hiking trails, parks, and recreational facilities that support an active and social lifestyle. The average resident is involved in community activities, and there’s a strong sense of belonging among neighbors. Families appreciate the dog-friendly environment and the close-knit vibe. Schools in the area are reputable, contributing to the neighborhood’s appeal for families with children. The property tax rate has been decreasing, making it an even more attractive location for homebuyers.
Real Estate Insights
Travis Country, located in Southwest Austin, presents a dynamic real estate market characterized by diverse property types, numerous homes for sale, and notable market trends.
Property Types
In Travis Country, buyers can find a variety of properties ranging from single-family homes to modern townhomes.
Single-family homes dominate the landscape, often featuring spacious yards and mature trees. Homes typically offer between 2,000 and 3,500 square feet of living space, accommodating families of all sizes.
There are also some townhomes and smaller properties, ideal for individuals or couples. Builders in this area have focused on maintaining a sense of community and an aesthetically pleasing environment.
Homes for Sale
The real estate market in Travis Country features a number of homes listed for sale at any given time. As of now, prices have seen a significant increase compared to last year. In March 2024, the median home price reached approximately $812,000.
Listings range from cozy single-story homes to expansive properties with multiple bedrooms and modern amenities. Interested buyers can find detailed listings through services such as Zillow and Redfin, which offer regular updates every 15 minutes.
Market Trends
Recently, the Travis Country real estate market has experienced noticeable shifts. In March 2024, home prices increased by 23% from the previous year, highlighting growing demand.
Homes are selling faster, with the average time on the market dropping from 83 days last year to 59 days this year. This trend indicates a competitive environment, underscoring the need for prospective buyers to move quickly when desirable homes become available.
Additionally, the tax rate in 2023 was noted at 1.8092%, down from the 2022 rate of 1.9749%, potentially benefiting homeowners.
Local Amenities and Attractions
Travis Country offers a variety of amenities for its residents, including extensive recreational facilities, diverse shopping and dining options, and access to reputable educational institutions.
Parks and Recreation
Travis Country is known for its extensive recreational amenities. The neighborhood features two amenity centers with pools, tennis courts, and basketball courts. There are numerous open spaces and playscapes for children.
Residents enjoy nature trails and greenbelts, including direct access to the famed Barton Creek Greenbelt, which provides opportunities for hiking and bird watching. The Wildflower Preserve within Travis Country is home to native Texas plants and wildlife, offering a serene environment for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Shopping and Dining
For shopping and dining, residents have convenient access to various local and regional options. Barton Creek Mall is a popular nearby destination, featuring a range of retail stores and dining establishments.
In addition, the surrounding area offers a mix of local eateries and boutique shops that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. From casual cafes to fine dining, the neighborhood provides ample choices for dining out.
Educational Institutions
Travis Country is served by the Austin Independent School District (Austin ISD). Notable schools in the vicinity include Oak Hill Elementary and Austin High School, both of which are well-regarded for their academic programs.
Families in Travis Country benefit from the close proximity of these schools, ensuring a short commute for students and an integrated community feel. Access to quality education is a key feature of living in this neighborhood.
Transportation and Accessibility
Travis Country in Austin, Texas, is well-connected by major roads and highways and offers several public transit options for residents. These features provide easy access to downtown Austin and other essential areas.
Major Roads and Highways
Travis Country is conveniently located near several major roads, making commuting straightforward for residents. Southwest Parkway serves as a primary artery, connecting the neighborhood to Mopac Expressway (Loop 1) and other central parts of Austin.
Mopac runs north-south through Austin, providing a direct route to both downtown and the northern suburbs. Highway 290 is another key road located nearby, offering a convenient route to the west and east of Austin.
Public Transit Options
For those who prefer public transportation, Travis Country is served by Austin's public transit system, CapMetro. Regular bus routes connect the neighborhood to downtown Austin and other significant destinations.
Residents can also take advantage of the Park & Ride facilities located near Mopac and Southwest Parkway, which offer a stress-free commuting option. Moreover, the MetroRapid bus services enhance access with more frequent and efficient routes, providing an attractive alternative to driving.
Community Engagement
Travis Country offers various ways for residents to engage with their community, from participating in local events and activities to volunteering opportunities that foster a sense of belonging and support for everyone.
Local Events and Activities
Travis Country frequently hosts events that bring together community members. These events range from social gatherings to educational workshops. For instance, residents can enjoy outdoor movie nights at Village Park, or join hiking and biking groups that explore the trails in Travis Country Green and Lost Creek at Gaines Ranch.
Families with children can participate in seasonal festivals, while pet owners have fun events for dogs, including dog walking groups. These activities are designed to promote health and wellness, foster relationships, and keep the neighborhood vibrant and connected.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteering is a key aspect of community life in Travis Country. Opportunities for residents include participating in local clean-up efforts in parks such as Trailwood Village and Village Park. These initiatives help maintain the neighborhood's natural beauty and ensure the trails and green spaces remain welcoming for walking, biking, and other recreational activities.
Residents can also volunteer for events organized by the Travis Country Association, contributing their skills and time to improve the quality of life in the neighborhood. These opportunities enable individuals to give back, connect with fellow residents, and strengthen the community fabric.
Volunteering activities often cover a range of interests, ensuring that everyone finds a cause they care about and can contribute to meaningfully.
Sustainability and Green Living
Travis Country prides itself on being an environmentally planned neighborhood. With a focus on conserving green spaces and implementing eco-friendly practices, it serves as a model for sustainable living in Austin.
Environmental Initiatives
Travis Country boasts several initiatives aimed at preserving the environment and promoting sustainability. A significant portion of the neighborhood is dedicated to greenbelts, featuring numerous trails for hiking and walking. This not only fosters a connection with nature but also encourages outdoor activities among residents.
Tree planting programs are regularly organized to maintain and enhance the lush greenery. These efforts not only improve air quality but also provide natural habitats for local wildlife. The community also participates in water conservation programs to reduce water usage and protect local water resources.
Eco-Friendly Practices
In addition to environmental initiatives, Travis Country residents actively engage in eco-friendly practices. Many homes here are equipped with solar panels to harness renewable energy, reducing dependence on non-renewable power sources. This shift not only lowers energy bills but also minimizes the carbon footprint.
Recycling is another key practice in the community, with convenient recycling centers available. Residents are encouraged to recycle household waste, promoting a culture of sustainability. The use of energy-efficient appliances and sustainable landscaping techniques further contributes to the neighborhood's eco-conscious lifestyle.
Through these practices and initiatives, Travis Country exemplifies a commitment to green living, making it a desirable location for environmentally conscious individuals and families.
