For anyone who has spent time in Austin, two neighborhoods stand out as capturing the very best of what the city has to offer: Barton Hills and Zilker. Located just southwest of downtown, these side-by-side communities blend the energy of city life with the tranquility of nature. Together, they’re more than just places to live—they’re neighborhoods that define the Austin lifestyle.
Nature at Your Doorstep. Life in Barton Hills and Zilker comes with a built-in invitation to enjoy the outdoors. Barton Hills is bordered by the Barton Creek Greenbelt, offering miles of trails for hiking, biking, and exploring hidden swimming spots. Zilker is home to Zilker Park, Austin’s “backyard,” where you’ll find wide-open green space, paddle boarding on Lady Bird Lake, and cultural landmarks like Barton Springs Pool.
Living here means you don’t have to choose between an active outdoor lifestyle and the convenience of city living—you truly get both.
Location. One of the biggest perks of these neighborhoods is how effortlessly connected they are to everything Austin has to offer. Downtown is just minutes away, making for quick commutes and easy access to concerts, restaurants, and nightlife. South Lamar and South Congress, two of Austin’s most vibrant corridors, are right around the corner, with endless options for dining, live music, and local shopping.
It’s the kind of location where you can start your morning on the trail, spend your afternoon working downtown, and cap the evening with dinner at one of Austin’s hottest restaurants—all without ever straying far from home.
Character. While Barton Hills and Zilker share many advantages, each has its own personality. Barton Hills is known for its quiet, tree-lined streets, mid-century modern homes, and a neighborly, family-friendly feel. It has a strong sense of community and a “tucked-away” atmosphere despite being so close to downtown. Zilker, on the other hand, has an eclectic and energetic vibe. From cozy bungalows to modern builds, the neighborhood reflects Austin’s creative spirit. It’s lively, walkable, and filled with the kind of quirky charm that makes the city so unique.
Both neighborhoods attract people who love the outdoors, appreciate community, and value a lifestyle that blends relaxation with activity.
Festivals, Music, and Culture. Living in Zilker or Barton Hills also means having Austin’s biggest cultural events in your backyard. The Austin City Limits Music Festival, the Trail of Lights, and countless concerts, fun runs, and community gatherings all happen within walking distance. It’s a place where culture and community converge year-round.
Why we love it. Ask anyone who lives in Barton Hills or Zilker, and you’ll hear a similar theme: once you move here, it’s hard to leave. Whether it’s families drawn to the parks and schools, professionals who love the quick commute downtown, or creatives who thrive on the neighborhood’s energy, people find that life in these neighborhoods feels like the perfect balance of everything Austin has to offer.
Barton Hills and Zilker aren’t just popular neighborhoods—they’re the very definition of the Austin lifestyle. With their blend of natural beauty, central location, and vibrant culture, they offer a way of life that’s hard to match anywhere else in the city. For anyone considering a move to Austin, Barton Hills and Zilker are neighborhoods where you don’t just live—you belong.
