With its charming small-town feel, thriving local economy, and convenient location just north of Austin, Georgetown, TX is an increasingly popular destination for those looking to relocate to the greater Austin metropolitan area. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top 10 reasons why Georgetown stands out as the best city near Austin to call home.
Where is Georgetown Texas?
Georgetown, Texas is a city located approximately 25 miles north of Austin, the state capital of Texas. It is situated in the central part of the state, within Williamson County.
Georgetown, Texas, located just 25 miles north of Austin. As of 2022, it was home to 71,788 residents, with a median age of 44.7 years and a strong median household income of $87,465.
During 2023, Georgetown saw notable growth, with its population increasing by 7.93% and median household income rising by 8.77%.
For 2024 the numbers have broken above the 100k threshold. According to the World Population Review the population is expected to rise up to 150k in 2026.
This rising demand comes with a reason, which we will explore in this blog.
- Georgetown is Centrally Located
Georgetown’s prime location, just 25 miles north of Austin, gives residents easy access to the job market, cultural attractions, and amenities of Texas’s capital city. Positioned as a suburban retreat within the Austin metro area, Georgetown offers a peaceful, affordable lifestyle without sacrificing convenience.
Commuters can reach downtown Austin in 30–40 minutes, making it easy to tap into career opportunities in the booming tech, healthcare, and business sectors while enjoying Georgetown’s relaxed residential feel. Georgetown’s location also makes it a perfect home base for exploring the wider Central Texas region.
Here are the key commute times from Georgetown, TX:
- Austin: 30 minutes
- Waco (Cameron Park Zoo, Magnolia Silos): 1 hour 10 minutes
- San Antonio: 2 hours
- Fredericksburg (Texas wine country): 2 hours
- Dallas-Fort Worth: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Houston: 3 hours
The preferred route to Austin is SH-130, which has speed limits up to 85 mph and experiences fewer crashes than I-35, though it does require paying tolls. Many residents find the tolls worthwhile, especially when I-35 traffic is heavy.
- Georgetown, TX is One Of The Best Cities in Texas for Families
When people think of Georgetown, it’s common to picture the vibrant 55+ community of Sun City or the historic Southwestern University, the oldest university in Texas. While these landmarks contribute to Georgetown’s diverse character, the city has a well-rounded, multigenerational population.
According to recent U.S. Census Bureau estimates, 47.3% of Georgetown residents fall between the ages of 18 and 65. This means nearly half the city’s population is working-age adults, many of whom are raising families.
So if you’re considering a move with your family, Georgetown offers an appealing mix of college-town energy, active retiree amenities, and ample options for families.
- Georgetown, TX Is Great For Outdoor Lovers
Another reason that makes Georgetown one of the best alternatives to live near Austin is the outdoors. Residents love Georgetown for its breathtaking natural surroundings and the endless opportunities for outdoor fun. With beautiful parks, extensive trails, and a range of water activities, the city is perfect for anyone wanting to connect with nature.
Here are the top 5 outdoors in Georgetown, TX:
Blue Hole Park
Nestled along the San Gabriel River, Blue Hole Park is a stunning lagoon area known for its scenic limestone bluffs and clear swimming waters. It’s a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and relaxing by the water, especially during warmer months.
Lake Georgetown
This large reservoir is a favorite for fishing, boating, and hiking. The Goodwater Loop, a 26-mile hiking and biking trail surrounding the lake, offers scenic views of the water and the surrounding landscape. It’s a great spot for both water and land-based activities.
Garey Park
One of the largest parks in the area, Garey Park spans 525 acres and features equestrian trails, hiking paths, a dog park, fishing ponds, and a splash pad for kids. With its expansive spaces and varied amenities, Garey Park offers something for everyone.
San Gabriel Park
Known for its shaded picnic areas and walking trails, San Gabriel Park is a family-friendly spot with beautiful river views, playgrounds, and open spaces for events. The park’s trails connect to the San Gabriel River Trail, making it ideal for leisurely walks or bike rides.
Berry Springs Park and Preserve
A hidden gem, Berry Springs Park and Preserve provides a peaceful escape with its scenic ponds, abundant wildlife, and shady pecan trees. It’s a wonderful spot for picnicking, fishing, camping, and nature walks, perfect for a laid-back day outdoors.
- Georgetown, TX Has That Small Town Vibe, Big City Amenities
Georgetown has a special mix of small-town feel and modern comforts. Its historic downtown square is filled with local shops, cafés, and family-owned restaurants, giving the city a cozy, friendly atmosphere. People here enjoy chatting with neighbors, joining in community events, and feeling part of a warm, welcoming town.
At the same time, Georgetown has all the conveniences of a larger city. There are great schools, modern healthcare facilities, and plenty of shopping and entertainment options. Residents get the close-knit, relaxed vibe of a small town while still having easy access to everything they need.
- Affordable Cost of Living Compared to Austin
When considering a move in the greater Austin area, cost of living is a major factor. Many people weigh their options between Austin and Georgetown for this reason.
If cost of living is the primary concern, Georgetown is the more affordable choice. While there are suburban homes in Georgetown priced up to $2 million, comparable homes in Austin typically cost significantly more.
Overall, living in Georgetown is about 9.5% cheaper than living in Austin. To maintain the same standard of living in Georgetown as you have in Austin, you would need an annual salary of $90,495.
Comparison Highlights:
- Overall Cost: Georgetown is cheaper than Austin.
- Median Home Cost: This is the largest factor contributing to the difference in living costs.
- Median Home Cost: Homes in Georgetown are 19% cheaper than those in Austin.
- Access to Excellent Schools
Remember when we talked about Georgetown, TX being one of the best cities in the US for families? With Austin pulling so many young professionals due to the strong job market, these families more than often put a strong emphasis on the school rating for their kids.
Georgetown, TX, stands out as the prime choice in this regard. The city is home to highly-rated public schools, providing quality education and a supportive environment for students.
Here are some of the well-regarded educational institutions in Georgetown, TX, for each level of seniority:
- Kindergarten: Village Elementary School
- Elementary School: Dell Pickett Elementary School
- Middle School: Benold Middle School
- High School: Georgetown High School
- Higher Education: Southwestern University
- Strong Job Market and Growing Economy
When discussing a strong job market and a growing economy, Texas is often the first state that comes to mind. At the heart of this economic boom is Austin, a city that has attracted numerous tech companies and startups, turning it into a thriving hub for innovation and employment.
The influx of these businesses has created a robust job market, providing opportunities across various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and education. With major employers like Dell, Apple, and Oracle setting up operations in the area, the demand for skilled workers continues to rise, making it an attractive destination for professionals seeking career growth.
Additionally, Texas benefits from having no state income tax, which further enhances its appeal for both individuals and businesses. This policy allows residents to keep more of their earnings, fostering consumer spending and supporting local businesses.
- Georgetown, TX Is Safe
Despite the significant population growth, Georgetown has maintained a relatively low crime rate over the years. According to Alarms.org, it ranks as the third safest city in Texas for communities with populations over 50,000, and it is 24th overall in the state. The city’s Part 1 crime rate—which includes serious offenses like murder, sexual offenses, aggravated assault, vehicle theft, and arson—remains well below the average for cities of similar size. This commitment to safety, paired with a strong sense of community, makes Georgetown an ideal place for families and new residents looking to settle down.
- Beautiful Historic Downtown
Georgetown’s historic downtown area features distinct architecture and a relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can walk along the streets to find various shops, cafés, and local boutiques. Notable places include The Williamson Museum and Sweet Lemon Kitchen, which showcase local culture and food.
The downtown area hosts events like the First Friday Art Walk and the annual Georgetown Red Poppy Festival, contributing to a dynamic community environment. This lively setting makes Georgetown’s historic downtown a convenient spot for shopping, dining, and connecting with others.
- High Quality Of Life
Last but not least, Georgetown, TX, is known for its high quality of life, offering residents a blend of comfort and convenience. With affordable housing, excellent schools, and abundant recreational opportunities, families and individuals can enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle.
The city’s well-maintained parks and community events foster a strong sense of belonging, while the proximity to Austin provides access to urban amenities without the hustle and bustle. Overall, Georgetown’s welcoming atmosphere and range of services make it an appealing place to live for people of all ages.
To Wrap Up
In conclusion, Georgetown, TX, is a great place to move for both families and individuals. It has an affordable cost of living, good schools, a strong job market, and a friendly community, making it a nice mix of small-town feel and modern comforts. The city’s charming historic downtown, lively local events, and focus on safety add to its appeal.
As Georgetown continues to grow, it remains a top choice for those wanting a good quality of life near Austin. Whether you’re starting a family or looking for a quiet place to live, Georgetown has something for everyone. For all moving related needs in Georgetown, TX make sure to contact us.
