78731 ZIP Neighborhood
A Detailed Overview and Guide
The 78731 ZIP code, located in Austin, TX, offers a blend of scenic beauty, historic landmarks, and vibrant neighborhoods. Known for its picturesque views of Lake Austin and the downtown skyline, the area around Mount Bonnell rises over 700 feet and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This neighborhood is part of Travis County and lies within the Central Time Zone, with coordinates at 30 degrees latitude and -98 degrees longitude, sharing the same latitude as Wuhan, China.
Residents of 78731 benefit from diverse housing options, ranging from apartments and townhouses to single-family homes. Rentals are popular, with two-bedroom units typically priced at $1,000 or more per month, and one-bedroom units ranging from $750 to $999. The area also boasts several premier neighborhoods, such as Canyon Rim and Mesa, which are known for their community associations and local amenities.
The 78731 area is not just about housing; it boasts strong public schools, ranked among the best in Texas. This attractiveness makes it an excellent place for families and professionals alike, seeking a spot that combines convenience, quality education, and engaging community life.
More about ZIP 78731
Demographics Overview
The 78731 ZIP code in Austin, TX, is characterized by its diverse population, varied household dynamics, and significant educational attainment. Understanding these aspects provides insight into the community's unique composition.
Population Insights
The population in the 78731 ZIP code stands at approximately 25,974. The area has experienced a population growth of 5.5% since 2010, indicating a steady influx of residents. The neighborhood is moderately dense, creating a balanced environment that is neither too crowded nor too sparse.
Household Dynamics
The ZIP code encompasses around 12,804 households. Household sizes vary, but the average household size is indicative of a mix of family and non-family households. Two-bedroom rentals are prevalent, typically costing $1,000 or more per month. One-bedroom units are also common, with rents ranging from $750 to $999.
Cultural Composition
78731 displays a diversity score of 69 out of 100. It is more diverse compared to other US ZIP codes. The racial and ethnic composition includes a mix of White, Hispanic, Asian, and Black residents. This rich cultural diversity enhances the community fabric, contributing to a variety of cultural practices and traditions.
Educational Attainment
Residents in 78731 exhibit high levels of education. Many hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. High school diplomas are common, but there is a noteworthy presence of individuals with professional degrees as well. This high educational attainment reflects the community's commitment to knowledge and career development.
Economic Landscape
The economic landscape of the 78731 zip code neighborhood in Austin, Texas, is shaped by distinct income levels, home ownership trends, and a dynamic rental market.
Income Analysis
In the 78731 zip code, the median household income is notably higher compared to other areas of Austin. As of the latest reports, the median household income stands at around $110,000, reflecting the area's affluent population.
Income Distribution:
Below $50,000: 15%
$50,000-$100,000: 30%
Above $100,000: 55%
Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) for residents here is also relatively high, with an average AGI of approximately $85,000. The neighborhood enjoys a low unemployment rate of around 3%, indicating a robust job market.
Home Ownership and Rental Market
The 78731 neighborhood displays a strong inclination towards homeownership, with about 65% of residents owning their homes. The average home value in this area is $550,000 while the median price is slightly higher at $575,000.
2019: $500,000
2020: $525,000
2021: $540,000
2022: $560,000
The rental market is equally thriving, accommodating approximately 35% of the population. The average rental price for a two-bedroom apartment is around $1,800 per month, which aligns with the local demand and real estate trends. Rental properties in the 78731 area often attract professionals and young families.
Education and Schools
The 78731 zip code in Austin, Texas offers a range of educational opportunities, serving families with both public and private school options. This area is recognized for its high-performing schools.
Public Education System
Within the 78731 zip code, the Austin Independent School District (Austin ISD) operates some of the city's top public schools. Doss Elementary and Highland Park Elementary stand out with exceptional state rankings, with Highland Park placed 70th and Doss at 192nd among Texas elementary schools.
Public middle school students typically attend Murchison Middle School, known for its robust academic programs. The public schools in this area focus on a comprehensive curriculum that covers from pre-K through 8th grade, ensuring a solid educational foundation.
Apart from traditional academic subjects, these schools emphasize extracurricular activities, arts, and sports, fostering well-rounded development. Teacher quality, state test scores, and college readiness are key strengths highlighted by the community and reported by sources like SchoolDigger and Niche.
Private Educational Options
For families seeking private education, the 78731 zip code also offers several reputable private schools. These schools provide tailored education experiences with smaller class sizes and specialized programs. Parents often appreciate the individual attention and unique curricula that private schools can offer.
While specific rankings for private schools in this area are less frequently reported, they are known for their strong educational outcomes and community satisfaction. They cater to a range of educational philosophies and often include advanced placement courses, arts programs, and languages.
Private schools also tend to have competitive sports and extracurricular activities, providing comprehensive growth opportunities beyond academics. These schools are well-regarded for their commitment to a holistic education and preparation for higher education paths.
Community and Lifestyle
The 78731 zip code offers a blend of upscale urban living, rich cultural experiences, and abundant outdoor activities, making it a desirable place for many. Safety is a priority for residents, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.
Neighborhood Atmosphere
The community in the 78731 zip code is primarily composed of singles and married couples. Housing here is typically more expensive, with average home values around $429,700. The neighborhood features a mix of architectural styles and well-maintained properties. Highland Village, part of this zip code, is known for its historical significance and established community roots. The area promotes a tight-knit environment with various community events and gatherings to foster neighborly connections.
Outdoor and Recreational Activities
Residents of 78731 can enjoy numerous outdoor and recreational activities. Mount Bonnell, a notable landmark, offers picturesque views of Lake Austin and the downtown skyline, making it popular for hiking and sightseeing. The area also boasts parks and green spaces perfect for jogging, picnicking, and family outings. Local parks provide playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails. The community’s access to these outdoor amenities underscores its appeal for those who appreciate active lifestyles and nature.
Safety and Crime
Safety is a significant concern for the residents of 78731. The neighborhood is known for its low crime rates, contributing to a sense of security. While the presence of registered sex offenders is monitored, preventive measures and community vigilance help maintain safety. Public safety programs and police presence also bolster residents' confidence in the security of their surroundings. The well-lit streets and community awareness initiatives further ensure a safe living environment for all.
Geographic and Climatic Factors
The 78731 ZIP code area in Austin, Texas is influenced by specific geographic and climatic conditions that shape the way residents live and interact with their environment.
Location and Topography
The 78731 ZIP code is located in the city of Austin, within Travis County. Positioned at a latitude of approximately 30.35°N and a longitude of around 97.77°W, the area features a varied topography. The elevation rises to about 489 feet above sea level, offering a mix of flatlands and gentle hills. This geographic diversity supports a range of natural landscapes, from wooded areas to open spaces, contributing to the neighborhood's appeal for outdoor activities.
Time Zone Considerations
The entire area operates under the Central Time Zone (CST), making it consistent with the majority of Texas. This means that local businesses and schools align their schedules with the broader region, which is crucial for synchronizing activities with other parts of the state. Daylight Saving Time is observed, leading to longer daylight hours in summer, which can affect daily routines and energy consumption.
Local Governance and Politics
The 78731 ZIP code neighborhood in Austin, Texas, is defined by its liberal political climate and its community-driven services and infrastructure. These factors shape daily life and local policies.
Political Climate
The political atmosphere in the 78731 area is predominantly liberal. In the most recent presidential election, Travis County, where this ZIP code is located, saw approximately 71.4% of voters support the Democratic Party.
By comparison, 26.4% voted for the Republican Party, and 2.2% voted Independent. This distribution suggests a strong Democratic presence, which influences local policies and governance. Travis County overall is marked by progressive values, which align closely with the broader liberal views of its residents.
Local officials within the 78731 ZIP code generally advocate for progressive policies, focusing on issues like climate change, social equality, and inclusive economic development. Austin's political alignment supports a variety of social programs and initiatives aimed at community welfare.
Community Services and Infrastructure
Community services and infrastructure in the 78731 neighborhood reflect the area's political leanings. Public services are robust, with emphasis on accessible health care, quality education, and comprehensive public transportation.
Infrastructure projects often prioritize sustainability, including green spaces, bike lanes, and public parks. Neighborhood organizations collaborate with local government to address gaps in services and to ensure that public utilities are well-maintained.
Additionally, local schools and libraries receive strong community support, and initiatives to improve educational resources are popular. The focus is also on maintaining safe, clean, and healthy living environments, reflecting a community-oriented approach to governance.
Real Estate and Housing Market Dynamics
The 78731 neighborhood in Austin, Texas, presents a complex and dynamic real estate market. Housing prices show both competitiveness and opportunities for investment, reflecting broader economic trends.
Current Market Trends
Housing in the 78731 zip code is somewhat competitive, with homes typically receiving one offer and selling in around 60 days. The median sale price of a home in 78731 has climbed to $1,000,000, showing a 7.5% increase from last year.
Interestingly, while the median sale price per square foot is $402, this figure has decreased by 3.7% since the previous year. These trends indicate rising property values but possibly more flexible pricing on a per-square-foot basis.
The number of homes for sale has shown slight variations. With 218 homes listed ranging from $209,000 to $9.9 million, there is a broad spectrum of options for potential buyers.
Investment Opportunities
The 78731 area offers robust investment opportunities, given its escalating median home value and the variety of properties available. The median price for homes currently stands at $1,024,500, down 3.1% since last year, suggesting a market correction and a possible entry point for investors.
Several factors contribute to its attractiveness for investment. Proximity to key amenities and the strong economic backdrop of Austin enhance home values.
High-end properties, some listed up to $9.9 million, indicate potential for lucrative returns. Additionally, fluctuations in the average home price per square foot offer possibilities for strategic investments aimed at maximizing value growth over time.
Data and Resources
Comprehensive information about the 78731 ZIP neighborhood can be gathered from various trusted databases and local archives, ensuring up-to-date and accurate data for research and analysis.
Statistical Databases
U.S. Census Bureau: The Census Bureau provides detailed demographic statistics, including age distribution, gender ratios, and household compositions. These datasets are crucial for understanding the population trends and characteristics of the 78731 ZIP area.
City-Data: This resource offers extensive statistics on various aspects such as income levels, employment rates, housing trends, and real estate prices. Data on neighborhood-specific information, including crime rates and educational facilities, aids in making informed decisions about the locality.
HomeTownLocator: This platform ranks ZIP codes based on various criteria, such as income and cost of living, helping users compare 78731 with other ZIP codes in Texas. It contains updated maps and geographical data crucial for spatial analysis and urban planning.
Zillow and Redfin: Real estate databases like Zillow and Redfin provide market trends, rental rates, and property values. These platforms also offer neighborhood insights, including amenities, nearby schools, and public transport access, tailored to the specifics of the 78731 ZIP.
Local Archives and Records
Austin Public Library: The library houses a rich collection of historical documents, photographs, and maps relevant to the 78731 area. These resources are indispensable for researchers seeking historical context or changes in the neighborhood over time.
Travis County Records: Official records from Travis County include property deeds, land use documents, and legal records. These archives provide authoritative, verifiable data necessary for legal and property-related inquiries.
Local Historical Societies: Organizations like the Austin History Center curate records that provide insights into the cultural and socio-economic evolution of the neighborhoods within 78731, preserving personal stories and events that have shaped the community.
School District Records: For educational data, school district archives offer performance reports, enrollment statistics, and facility information. These records are essential for evaluating the quality of education and resources available to residents of 78731.
