Tarrytown is where old Austin never really disappeared.

Long before Austin became one of America's fastest-growing cities, Tarrytown was already one of its most desirable neighborhoods. Massive pecan trees arch over quiet streets. Historic homes sit beside architect-designed modern residences. Children still ride bicycles to neighborhood parks, and evenings often end with a walk down to the shores of Lake Austin.

Few neighborhoods have changed as dramatically in value while preserving their character. Tarrytown has become one of the most coveted addresses in Central Texas—not because it is flashy, but because it remains understated.

For buyers seeking luxury without spectacle, convenience without congestion, and history without sacrificing modern amenities, Tarrytown continues to set the standard.

If you're considering buying a home in Tarrytown, this guide covers everything you need to know.

Where Is Tarrytown?

Tarrytown sits immediately west of Downtown Austin between Lake Austin and Mopac (Loop 1).

Its boundaries are generally considered:

• Lake Austin Boulevard to the south
• West 35th Street to the north
• Mopac Expressway to the east
• Lake Austin to the west

One of Tarrytown's greatest advantages is location.

Drive times are approximately:

• Downtown Austin: 5–10 minutes
• The University of Texas: 10 minutes
• The Texas Capitol: 10 minutes
• Austin-Bergstrom International Airport: 20–25 minutes
• Domain NORTHSIDE: 20 minutes

Very few neighborhoods combine this level of accessibility with such a peaceful residential atmosphere.

Tarrytown at a Glance

ZIP Code: 78703

Home Prices (2026):

• Approximately $1.5 million to over $15 million
• Lakefront estates regularly exceed $20 million

Housing Types

• Historic cottages
• Mid-century homes
• Luxury new construction
• Contemporary custom homes
• Waterfront estates
• Lock-and-leave luxury residences

Known For

• Mature tree canopy
• Lake Austin access
• Quiet streets
• Excellent schools
• Historic architecture
• Walkability
• Prestige without pretension

The History of Tarrytown

Unlike many newer Austin neighborhoods, Tarrytown wasn't master-planned.

Development began in the 1920s as Austin expanded west from Downtown.

Many of the original homes were built for University of Texas professors, physicians, judges, and business leaders who wanted larger lots while remaining close to the city center.

As Austin grew, Tarrytown remained remarkably insulated from commercial development.

Today, the neighborhood still feels residential first.

There are no towering office buildings.

No large apartment complexes dominating the skyline.

Instead, tree-lined streets and carefully maintained homes continue defining the area's identity.

What Makes Tarrytown Different?

Luxury neighborhoods often compete to be bigger.

Tarrytown competes by being quieter.

There are no grand entrance monuments.

No gated subdivisions.

No country-club marketing.

Instead, buyers choose Tarrytown because they value:

• Privacy
• Walkability
• Character
• Convenience
• Established landscaping
• Architectural diversity

Every block feels slightly different.

One street might feature restored cottages from the 1930s.

The next may include sleek modern homes designed by nationally recognized architects.

Real Estate in Tarrytown

One reason buyers love Tarrytown is that almost every home is unique.

Unlike planned communities, there are very few repeated floor plans.

You'll find:

Historic Homes

Many dating to the 1920s through the 1950s.

Expect:

• Original hardwood floors
• Brick exteriors
• Deep front porches
• Mature landscaping
• Timeless architecture

These homes often undergo careful renovations while preserving original charm.

Luxury New Construction

As older homes have been replaced, architects have designed some of Austin's finest contemporary residences.

Features often include:

• Floor-to-ceiling glass
• Resort-style pools
• Outdoor kitchens
• Smart home technology
• Elevator-ready floor plans
• Detached guest houses
• Private courtyards

Waterfront Estates

The western edge of Tarrytown borders Lake Austin.

These properties are among the most valuable in Texas.

Private docks.

Boat lifts.

Wide water views.

Direct lake access.

Inventory remains extremely limited, making these homes highly competitive whenever they reach the market.

Is Tarrytown Walkable?

Surprisingly, yes.

Residents regularly walk to:

• Neighborhood coffee shops
• Casis Village
• Local restaurants
• Reed Park
• Westenfield Park
• Lions Municipal Golf Course
• Deep Eddy Pool
• Lake Austin Boulevard

While not every errand can be completed on foot, daily life often feels far less car-dependent than many Austin neighborhoods.

Parks and Outdoor Recreation

One of Tarrytown's greatest strengths is outdoor access.

Reed Park

A neighborhood favorite featuring:

• Tennis courts
• Basketball courts
• Playground
• Walking paths
• Large shaded green spaces

Westenfield Park

Popular with families thanks to:

• Sports fields
• Playground
• Community events
• Dog-friendly atmosphere

Deep Eddy Pool

Just south of the neighborhood sits Austin's oldest swimming pool.

Fed by natural spring water, Deep Eddy remains one of the city's most beloved summer destinations.

Lake Austin

Whether paddleboarding, boating, kayaking, or simply enjoying waterfront views, Lake Austin becomes part of everyday life for many residents.

Dining Near Tarrytown

While Tarrytown itself remains intentionally residential, outstanding restaurants are just minutes away.

Local favorites include:

• Mozart's Coffee Roasters
• Hula Hut
• Quince
• Clark's Oyster Bar
• Jeffrey's
• Tiny Boxwoods
• Josephine House

Many residents appreciate that nightlife exists nearby without dominating the neighborhood itself.

Shopping

Nearby shopping includes:

• Casis Village
• West Woods Shopping Center
• Downtown boutiques
• The Seaholm District
• Lamar Union
• The Domain (20 minutes)

Everyday errands remain exceptionally convenient.

Schools

Families are a significant part of Tarrytown's identity.

Many buyers specifically seek homes zoned to highly regarded public schools, while others choose from several respected private schools nearby.

School attendance boundaries can change, so buyers should always verify current zoning before purchasing.

Who Lives in Tarrytown?

The neighborhood attracts a wide range of residents, including:

• Physicians
• Attorneys
• University professors
• Entrepreneurs
• Technology executives
• Long-time Austin families
• Retirees
• Professional athletes
• Business owners

Many residents have lived in Tarrytown for decades, creating a rare sense of neighborhood continuity.

Pros of Living in Tarrytown

• Incredible location
• Mature trees
• Timeless architecture
• Quiet residential streets
• Excellent resale history
• Strong long-term appreciation
• Close to Downtown
• Access to Lake Austin
• Architectural diversity
• High-end custom homes

Things Buyers Should Consider

No neighborhood is perfect.

Buyers should understand:

Older Homes

Many require ongoing maintenance or renovations.

Limited Inventory

Homes often sell quickly.

Some of the best opportunities never reach the public market.

Premium Pricing

You're paying for location more than square footage.

Price per square foot often exceeds many surrounding neighborhoods.

Traffic

While Tarrytown itself remains quiet, nearby corridors such as Lake Austin Boulevard and Enfield Road can become congested during peak commuting hours.

Is Tarrytown a Good Investment?

Historically, Tarrytown has been one of Austin's strongest long-term real estate performers.

Several factors support continued demand:

• Limited land availability
• Central location
• Strong school appeal
• High-income buyer pool
• Architectural quality
• Lake Austin proximity

Although short-term market cycles affect every neighborhood, Tarrytown has consistently remained one of Austin's most resilient luxury markets.

Nearby Neighborhoods

Buyers considering Tarrytown often compare it with:

• Old Enfield
• Bryker Woods
• Pemberton Heights
• Clarksville
• West Austin
• Westlake
• Rollingwood

Each offers a different lifestyle, pricing structure, and architectural character.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Tarrytown expensive?

Yes. It is consistently one of Austin's most expensive neighborhoods, with homes generally starting around $1.5 million and extending well beyond $10 million.

Is Tarrytown good for families?

Absolutely. Quiet streets, parks, excellent schools, and proximity to Downtown make it one of Austin's premier family neighborhoods.

Can you walk to Lake Austin?

Many homes are within walking distance of Lake Austin, though direct waterfront access depends on the property's location.

Is Tarrytown safe?

Tarrytown is widely regarded as one of Austin's quieter and more established residential neighborhoods, though prospective buyers should review current public safety data as part of their home search.

Why Buyers Continue Choosing Tarrytown

Austin has grown dramatically over the past two decades. New towers rise downtown, master-planned communities stretch farther into the suburbs, and neighborhoods continue to evolve. Yet Tarrytown has remained remarkably consistent.

Its appeal has never been based on trends. It comes from a combination that cannot be recreated: towering trees, generous lots, proximity to Lake Austin and Downtown, distinctive architecture, and a neighborhood character built over nearly a century.

For buyers who value location, privacy, and long-term quality over the latest development, Tarrytown remains one of Austin's most enduring places to call home.

If you're considering buying or selling in Tarrytown, understanding the subtle differences from one street to the next can make a significant difference. Every block has its own personality, and local market knowledge matters in a neighborhood where no two homes are exactly alike.