Welcome to Lake Travis
Lake Travis, Texas – Community Overview & Real Estate Guide
Set against the rolling terrain of the Texas Hill Country, Lake Travis offers a refined waterfront lifestyle just west of downtown Austin. Known for its expansive lake views, private marinas, golf communities, and resort-style living, the area attracts primary residents, luxury second-home buyers, and relocation clients seeking natural beauty paired with metropolitan access.
Overview of Lake Travis, TX
Lake Travis stretches across western Travis County and portions of Burnet County, forming one of Central Texas’ most desirable residential corridors. Communities along the shoreline and surrounding hills enjoy panoramic water views, outdoor recreation, and proximity to Austin’s tech, dining, and cultural scene. From gated waterfront estates to contemporary hilltop homes and lock-and-leave condos, Lake Travis real estate balances privacy, lifestyle, and long-term demand.
| Key Facts about Lake Travis, TX | |
|---|---|
| Area | ~19,000 acres of surface water |
| Counties | Travis County • Burnet County |
| Established | 1942 (completion of Mansfield Dam) |
| Nearby Metro | Austin–Round Rock–Georgetown |
| Notable Communities | Lakeway • Steiner Ranch • The Hills • Rough Hollow • Lago Vista • Volente |
| Signature Attractions | Lake Travis marinas • Waterfront dining • Golf & country clubs • Hill Country hiking • Pace Bend Park • Sunset cruises |
| Main Roads | Ranch Road 620 • FM 2222 • Highway 71 • Loop 360 |
Blending scenic waterfront living with proximity to Austin’s economic and cultural core, Lake Travis stands out as one of Central Texas’ most enduring luxury real estate destinations.
Location & Connectivity Around Lake Travis
Lake Travis is located in Central Texas, just west of downtown Austin, and serves as one of the region’s premier waterfront and Hill Country residential areas. Communities surrounding the lake—including Lakeway, Steiner Ranch, Rough Hollow, Lago Vista, and Volente—are connected by scenic highways and lakefront roads. Daily mobility is primarily car-based, with growing options for walking, cycling, and water access in select neighborhoods.
For regional and national travel, residents benefit from proximity to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, major Hill Country roadways, and direct connections into Austin’s employment, dining, and cultural districts. Marina access and boat transport further define mobility along the lake itself.
| Connectivity & Transportation — Lake Travis, TX | |
|---|---|
| Location Map & Area Overview | Waterfront and Hill Country region west of Austin, spanning western Travis County and parts of Burnet County. Defined by Lake Travis shoreline communities, elevation changes, and scenic drives. Primary corridors include Ranch Road 620, FM 2222, and Highway 71. |
| Nearby Areas & Communities |
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| Attractions & Points of Interest |
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| Public Transport |
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| Road Access & Main Highways |
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| Typical Drive Times* |
*Times vary by traffic & lake-area congestion
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| Parking | Residential properties typically include private garages and driveways. Public parking is available at marinas, parks, and dining destinations; seasonal lake traffic may affect availability. |
| Walking & Cycling | Select neighborhoods offer walkable amenities and trail networks. Hill Country roads support recreational cycling, while parks and greenbelts provide off-road hiking and biking. |
| Taxi & Ride Apps | Uber and Lyft operate throughout the area, though availability may be reduced late nights or peak weekends. Private drivers and black-car services are commonly used for airport and event travel. |
| Airport Access |
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| Accessibility & EV | Many public parks, marinas, and commercial areas offer ADA-accessible facilities. EV charging stations are available at select shopping centers, resorts, and residential developments throughout the Lake Travis area. |
Lake Travis combines scenic Hill Country drives with direct access to Austin’s urban core—offering a balance of waterfront serenity, modern infrastructure, and regional connectivity that supports long-term luxury living.
Lake Travis Real Estate Market Trends (2025)
Lake Travis real estate spans a wide range of price points—from lock-and-leave condos and golf-course communities to waterfront estates with private docks—so local pricing is best understood by submarket and shoreline proximity. Across Lake Travis–adjacent communities, 2025 trends generally reflect resilient demand tied to Austin job growth, lifestyle migration, and limited true waterfront inventory. Waterfront frontage, dock rights, panoramic views, and neighborhood amenities can create meaningful price separation, while updated interiors and newer construction tend to command premiums.
| Property Type | Median Price (USD) | Price per Sq.Ft (USD) | Average Rent (USD/month) | Rental Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR Condo / Lock-and-Leave Residence | $525,000 (est.) | $275–$320 (est.) | $2,200 (est.) | ~5.0% (est.) |
| 2–3BR Townhome / Golf-Course Community | $675,000 (est.) | $270–$310 (est.) | $2,850 (est.) | ~5.1% (est.) |
| 3–4BR Single-Family Home (Hill Country/Lake Access) | $790,000 (est.) | $279–$320 (est.) | $3,200 (est.) | ~4.9% (est.) |
| 4BR+ Waterfront / View Estate | $1,235,000 (est.) | $320–$370 (est.) | $4,250 (est.) | ~4.1% (est.) |
Methodology & Notes: Segment medians and rents are directional estimates intended for a community overview page. Actual pricing and yields vary significantly by lake frontage, dock rights, short-term rental rules, HOA structure, insurance, tax profile, renovations, and proximity to Austin employment corridors. For a client-ready analysis, validate these estimates against current MLS and rental comps by neighborhood and ZIP.
Lifestyle in Lake Travis
Life around Lake Travis pairs Hill Country calm with Austin accessibility. West of the city, the shoreline and surrounding hills offer a distinct rhythm—mornings on the water, afternoons on trails or golf courses, and evenings anchored by lakeside dining and live music. Movement is primarily car-based along Ranch Road 620, FM 2222, Highway 71, and Loop 360, while select neighborhoods provide walkable pockets, community trails, and marina-oriented social life.
Location in Lake Travis
Central Texas Hill Country lake west of Austin, spanning western Travis County and portions of Burnet County. Primary corridors: Ranch Road 620, FM 2222, Highway 71, and Loop 360.
Community in Lake Travis
Laid-back, outdoor-forward, and neighborhood-driven. Many communities center around marinas, club amenities, lake access, and social calendars that blend resident life with weekend energy.
Dining in Lake Travis
Waterfront patios, Hill Country bistros, and destination stops in Lakeway, Bee Cave, and nearby Austin corridors. Expect sunset dining, live music, and a strong casual-luxury scene built around local favorites.
Education in Lake Travis
Served by multiple districts depending on community, with highly regarded public options in key pockets plus private and specialty programs in the greater Austin area. Confirm zoning by address, as boundaries vary by neighborhood.
Housing in Lake Travis
Range includes lock-and-leave condos, golf-course homes, gated communities, and waterfront estates. Premium drivers often include lake frontage, dock rights, view corridors, newer construction, and amenity access.
Transportation in Lake Travis
Primarily car-based commuting into Austin and nearby business districts. Ride-share is available with variable wait times; private drivers are common for airport transfers and events. Marina access adds a distinct lifestyle layer.
Climate in Lake Travis
Warm-to-hot summers and generally mild winters typical of Central Texas. Lake breezes and elevation shifts can influence comfort. Drought and water-level variability are practical considerations for waterfront ownership.
Amenities in Lake Travis
Marinas, private clubs, golf, tennis, trail systems, and lakefront parks shape daily life. Shopping and services are readily available via Lakeway, Bee Cave, and nearby Austin corridors.
Demographics in Lake Travis
Mix of full-time residents, Austin commuters, remote professionals, and second-home owners. Strong presence of active households drawn to water recreation, golf, and Hill Country living.
Pros in Lake Travis
Waterfront lifestyle near Austin, panoramic Hill Country views, private club amenities, abundant outdoor recreation, and a well-established luxury market with enduring buyer demand.
Cons in Lake Travis
Traffic can spike on weekends and during events; some areas have limited public transit; lake levels can fluctuate; due diligence is important for HOA rules, STR policies, and waterfront/dock permissions.
Outdoor Activities in Lake Travis
Boating, wake sports, paddleboarding, sailing, trail hiking, golf, and lakeside park days. Sunset cruises, waterfront dining, and Hill Country overlooks round out the signature experience.
Lake Travis delivers a polished Hill Country lifestyle with Austin within reach—lake days, club amenities, scenic drives, and outdoor recreation create an elevated, highly livable place to call home.
Amenities in Lake Travis, TX
Lake Travis delivers a lifestyle-driven mix of amenities shaped by waterfront living, Hill Country scenery, and proximity to Austin. Residents enjoy access to modern healthcare, upscale shopping, outdoor recreation, and private club environments that support both everyday convenience and resort-style living.
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Hospitals & Clinics Near Lake Travis
Lakeway • Bee Cave • Austin AccessResidents have convenient access to regional hospitals, specialty care, and modern medical campuses serving western Travis County.- Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Lakeway — full-service hospital & ER
- Austin Regional Clinic (ARC) — Bee Cave & Lakeway locations
- Lake Travis ER — emergency services
- St. David’s Medical Network — specialty and regional care
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Shopping & Dining Near Lake Travis
Lakeway • Bee Cave • Hill Country GalleriaRetail and dining options blend Hill Country charm with upscale convenience, anchored by lifestyle centers and local favorites.- Hill Country Galleria — retail, dining, and events
- Lakeway Commons — everyday shopping & services
- Bee Cave Central — boutique retail & dining
- Waterfront restaurants — lakeside patios and live music
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Fitness & Recreation in Lake Travis
Clubs • Trails • Waterfront ActivitiesOutdoor recreation is central to daily life, supported by marinas, parks, private clubs, and trail systems.- Lakeway Swim Center & Activity Center
- The Hills Country Club — golf, tennis, fitness, dining
- Pace Bend Park — hiking, biking, lake access
- Lake Travis marinas — boating, paddle sports, charters
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Marinas & Waterfront Clubs
Boating • Social Clubs • Lake AccessLake Travis living is defined by direct water access, private docks, and marina-centered social life.- Lakeway Marina — slips, dining, and events
- Briarcliff Marina — boating services & lake access
- Rough Hollow Yacht Club — private marina & clubhouse
- Volente Beach — marina, dining, and entertainment
Schools & Preschools in Lake Travis
Families in the Lake Travis area are served by several highly regarded school districts, most notably the Lake Travis Independent School District (LTISD), with additional options through Leander ISD and Round Rock ISD depending on the specific community. The area also offers respected private schools, early learning centers, and specialty programs.
Schools in and around Lake Travis are known for strong college-preparatory academics, AP coursework, competitive athletics, fine arts, and extracurricular offerings. Because attendance boundaries can vary by neighborhood, families should always confirm zoning, transfers, and enrollment requirements before making decisions.
| School / Preschool | Type | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lakeway Elementary School | Public (K–5) — LTISD | Lakeway | Strong academics, arts integration, and community involvement in a central Lake Travis setting. |
| Serene Hills Elementary | Public (K–5) — LTISD | Lakeway | Modern campus with STEAM enrichment, outdoor learning spaces, and high family engagement. |
| Steiner Ranch Elementary | Public (K–5) — Leander ISD | Steiner Ranch | Well-rated neighborhood school serving the Steiner Ranch community. |
| Hudson Bend Middle School | Public (6–8) — LTISD | Lakeway | Academic rigor with strong athletics, fine arts, and leadership programs. |
| Canyon Ridge Middle School | Public (6–8) — Leander ISD | North Lake Travis Area | Comprehensive middle school with STEM and extracurricular opportunities. |
| Lake Travis High School | Public (9–12) — LTISD | Lakeway | Highly regarded college-prep high school with AP courses, athletics, and fine arts programs. |
| Vandegrift High School | Public (9–12) — Leander ISD | Four Points Area | Modern campus offering advanced academics, athletics, and arts. |
| Lake Travis Christian Academy | Private (PK–12) | Bee Cave | Faith-based college-preparatory curriculum with athletics and fine arts. |
| St. Stephen’s Episcopal School | Independent (6–12) | Austin | Prestigious independent school offering rigorous academics and boarding/day options. |
| Primrose School of Lakeway | Private Preschool | Lakeway | Accredited early childhood education with balanced academics and play-based learning. |
| Montessori Options (area-wide) | Private Preschool / K | Lakeway • Bee Cave | Montessori-inspired programs emphasizing independence, hands-on learning, and creativity. |
Districts: Lake Travis ISD (LTISD), Leander ISD, and nearby Round Rock ISD. Tip: School boundaries, transfer policies, and program availability may change—always verify zoning, admissions, and transportation details directly with the school or district.
Investment Potential in Lake Travis, TX
Lake Travis represents one of Central Texas’ most resilient luxury and lifestyle-driven real estate markets, anchored by proximity to Austin, limited true waterfront inventory, and sustained demand from executives, entrepreneurs, and relocation buyers. Surrounding communities such as Lakeway, Rough Hollow, Steiner Ranch, and Lago Vista attract both full-time residents and second-home investors seeking long-term appreciation paired with lifestyle value.
Why Lake Travis? Waterfront and view properties consistently outperform the broader Austin metro, supported by strong in-migration, high household incomes, and constrained shoreline supply. Luxury homes with dock rights, panoramic views, and modern construction command meaningful premiums, while lock-and-leave residences and golf-course communities provide stable rental and resale demand. Forecasts for 2025 point to continued, measured appreciation as Austin’s employment base and lifestyle appeal remain intact.
| Market Segment | Typical Price Range | Demand Trend | Days on Market |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lakeway | $700K–$1.5M+ | Strong | 25–45 days |
| Rough Hollow | $900K–$2.5M+ | Very Strong | 20–40 days |
| Steiner Ranch | $800K–$1.8M+ | Strong | 20–35 days |
| Waterfront Estates | $1.5M–$5M+ | Exceptional | 30–60 days |
Lake Travis continues to attract capital due to its limited shoreline supply, strong lifestyle appeal, and close alignment with Austin’s economic growth. While market conditions have normalized from peak-pandemic levels, well-positioned properties—especially those with lake access, views, and modern upgrades—remain highly competitive.
Key Investment Highlights:
- Limited true waterfront inventory supports long-term price resilience
- Consistent demand from Austin-based executives, tech professionals, and relocation buyers
- Strong performance for homes with dock rights, lake views, and gated community amenities
- Stable rental demand for lock-and-leave properties and executive leases
- Measured appreciation expected through 2025 as interest rates stabilize
Whether pursuing a waterfront estate, a luxury primary residence, or a lifestyle-driven investment, Lake Travis offers a compelling combination of scarcity, demand, and long-term value within the greater Austin market.
Thinking About Moving to Lake Travis?
Set in the rolling Texas Hill Country just west of Austin, Lake Travis offers a lifestyle defined by waterfront living, panoramic views, and a relaxed yet refined pace. Communities such as Lakeway, Rough Hollow, Steiner Ranch, and Lago Vista blend natural beauty with access to Austin’s dining, culture, and employment centers.
Housing options range from luxury waterfront estates with private docks to golf-course homes, gated communities, and lock-and-leave condos. Premiums are typically driven by lake frontage, dock rights, elevation views, newer construction, and amenity access. Short-term rental rules vary by community and HOA and should be reviewed carefully during due diligence.
Daily life around Lake Travis centers on outdoor recreation and social connection—boating, paddle sports, hiking and biking trails, golf, and lakeside dining are part of the routine. Residents enjoy marina-centered events, private clubs, and easy access to Bee Cave and Austin for shopping, healthcare, and entertainment.
With its balance of natural serenity, lifestyle amenities, and proximity to Austin, Lake Travis remains one of Central Texas’ most desirable destinations for primary residences, second homes, and long-term real estate investment.
Explore Lake Travis Real Estate →Frequently Asked Questions about Lake Travis
- How much does it cost to live in Lake Travis?
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- Condos/Townhomes: ~$400K–$900K depending on location, views, and HOA amenities
- Single-family homes: ~$650K–$1.6M+ with premiums for newer construction, gated communities, and lake proximity
- Waterfront & view estates: $1.5M–$5M+ depending on frontage, dock rights, and panoramic view corridors
Pricing ranges vary widely by neighborhood, lake access, and lot elevation; waterfront inventory is typically the most supply-constrained. - Is Lake Travis a good place for investment properties?
- Yes—Lake Travis benefits from limited true waterfront supply and consistent demand tied to Austin’s economy and lifestyle migration. Investors often target executive leases, second-home demand, and select short-term rental opportunities where permitted. Short-term rental rules can differ by city, county, and HOA, so verify regulations before purchasing.
- What is the rental market like?
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- Long-term rentals: Often strongest for updated 3–4BR homes and “lock-and-leave” residences near Lakeway and key Austin corridors
- Short-term rentals (where allowed): Peak demand typically aligns with weekends, summer lake season, and major Austin events
Rental performance depends on HOA rules, furnishing quality, proximity to marinas, and ease of access to Austin. - What types of properties are common around Lake Travis?
- A mix of waterfront homes, Hill Country view properties, gated luxury communities, golf-course neighborhoods, and condos/townhomes. Certain areas offer private marina access, while others focus on trails, club amenities, and elevated overlooks.
- What makes Lake Travis unique compared to other Austin-area communities?
- Lake Travis combines waterfront recreation and Hill Country scenery with proximity to Austin’s dining, culture, and employment centers. The blend of lake life, private clubs, and scenic elevation-driven views creates a distinct luxury lifestyle compared to more urban neighborhoods.
- How do people get around, and which airport serves Lake Travis?
- Most residents rely on driving via Ranch Road 620, FM 2222, Highway 71, and Loop 360. The primary airport is Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), generally reachable in roughly 45–55 minutes depending on traffic and starting point.
- Which schools serve the Lake Travis area?
- Many communities are served by the Lake Travis Independent School District (LTISD), with additional coverage through Leander ISD and other nearby districts depending on the address. The area also offers private school and early learning options. Always confirm attendance zones and enrollment requirements before relocating.
Lake Travis blends waterfront lifestyle, Hill Country views, and Austin access—a setting that supports both everyday living and long-term real estate value.
