Santa Monica Park Neighborhood Guide

Looking for charm, character, and convenience all in one neighborhood? Santa Monica Park in East Austin might just be where your search ends. Known for its quirky charm, mid-century homes, and proximity to green spaces, this tucked-away gem is ideal for home buyers seeking a blend of urban access and suburban tranquility. Within walking distance of Mabel Davis District Park, Santa Monica Park is one of the more desirable neighborhoods in the transitioning East Austin area. Made up of only 4-5 streets, the neighborhood is small, but that’s part of the charm. It is also surprisingly quiet even though the community is bordered by 3 major roadways (Interstate 35, Highway 71 and Burleson Road). Some may see this as a negative, but residents enjoy having easy access to all of Austin. Most of the homes in Santa Monica were built in the 1970’s, so you will see plenty of ranch style homes with limestone exteriors. Although the exteriors are old style Texas, a high percentage of the homes have been totally renovated on the inside with energy efficient upgrades, hardwood floors and modern enhancements. Driving through Santa Monica Park, you will see that’s it’s a very quirky neighborhood, but in a good way. As the neighborhood has a South Austin type of feel to it, but planted in an old time East Austin setting. Whether you’re relocating or simply looking for a great place to call home, this Santa Monica Park neighborhood guide will give you everything you need to know about living in Santa Monica Park. Scroll Down to Read Our Santa Monica Park Neighborhood Guide.

Santa Monica Park Homes for Sale

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Santa Monica Park Neighborhood Map

Santa Monica is an East Austin Neighborhood ideally located to Hwy 35, Hwy 71 and Burleson Road. The neighborhood is outlined by Mabel Davis District Park to the west, Metcalfe Road to the North, Burleson Road to the East and Mission Hill Drive to the South. Santa Monica Park is located just north of 71 and east of Woodward St.To get to Santa Monica Park, take Ben White to Burleson Road and head north. Make a left on Santa Monica Park Drive. Santa Monica Park is shaded in blue on the map below. Explore other East Austin neighborhoods in our East Austin Neighborhood Guide. Scroll down to continue reading our Santa Monica Park neighborhood guide.

What Does Santa Monica Park Look Like?

Nestled in the vibrant East Austin area, Santa Monica Park is a small but desirable neighborhood bordered by Interstate 35, Highway 71, and Burleson Road. Despite its proximity to major roadways, the community is surprisingly peaceful, offering residents a tranquil retreat from city life.

The neighborhood exudes a mix of old-school Austin charm and modern upgrades. Many homes are shaded by mature trees, giving the streets a cozy and welcoming vibe. And with just 4–5 streets making up the entire neighborhood, Santa Monica Park is the kind of close-knit community where neighbors wave hello and friendships form naturally.

What Do Santa Monica Park Homes Look Like?

Most homes in Santa Monica Park date back to the 1960s and 1970s, featuring classic ranch-style architecture. These homes are typically single-story with charming limestone exteriors that reflect an “old Texas” style. However, stepping inside reveals modern surprises. Many homes have been renovated with updated kitchens, energy-efficient features, and hardwood floors to meet the needs of today’s buyers.

Home sizes range from 999 to 2,760 square feet, with a median size of 1,650 square feet. Most homes offer 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, making them perfect for households of all sizes. Lot sizes are generous by East Austin standards, ranging from 0.17 to 0.6 acres. The larger lots are ideal for outdoor patios, backyard barbecues, or simply letting the kids and pets run around.

There has also been a recent trend of tear-down and rebuild projects, with new construction adding a touch of modernity to this quaint neighborhood.

What’s It Like Living in Santa Monica Park?

Living in Santa Monica Park offers a unique blend of character and convenience. From serene parks to delicious coffee shops, there’s no shortage of things to do or see. The neighborhood also has a South Austin vibe with an East Austin twist, making it perfect for those who value individuality and creativity.

Residents appreciate the peacefulness of a small community while enjoying easy access to Austin’s bustling epicenter. It’s the perfect middle ground between calm suburban living and urban excitement.

What Amenities Does Santa Monica Park Offer?

Santa Monica Park shines when it comes to amenities. Being adjacent to Mabel Davis District Park, residents have no excuse not to get outside and enjoy nature. This City of Austin park features jogging trails, barbecue pits, a public swimming pool, and spots for outdoor sports.

For even more weekend fun, Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Park is just a short drive away. Perfect for family outings, there you’ll find soccer fields, baseball fields, and a challenging disc golf course.

Need to get some shopping done? Major supermarkets, locally owned shops, and East Austin boutiques are all nearby for your convenience.

Why Do Home Buyers Choose Santa Monica Park?

There are many reasons home buyers are drawn to Santa Monica Park:

• Larger Lots: Compared to other East Austin neighborhoods, Santa Monica Park offers larger lots, giving homebuyers more outdoor space.
• Community Feel: The small size of the neighborhood fosters a strong sense of community.
• Convenience: Proximity to major roads, local businesses, and downtown Austin make this neighborhood an excellent choice for commuters.
• Green Spaces: With Mabel Davis District Park nearby, there’s always an outdoor spot to enjoy nature or exercise.
• Affordability: Compared to more central Austin neighborhoods, Santa Monica Park provides great value.

How’s the Commute?

One of Santa Monica Park’s strongest selling points is its accessibility. Interstate 35, Highway 71, and Burleson Road surround the neighborhood, making it easy to get anywhere in Austin quickly. Whether you’re commuting to downtown for work or heading south toward Bastrop for a weekend adventure, the location is hard to beat.

For professionals working downtown, the commute is about 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic. Scroll down to continue reading our Santa Monica Park neighborhood guide.

Santa Monica Park Property Tax Rate

The property tax rate for East Austin’s Santa Monica Park neighborhood is 1.8092% as of the 2023 tax year, down from 1.9749% as of the 2022 tax year. The property tax rate was 2.1767% as of the 2021 tax year.

Santa Monica Park Schools

Kids who live in East Austin’s Santa Monica Park neighborhood are served by the Austin ISD and will likely attend the following schools:

• Linder Elementary - 3/10
• Lively Middle - 3/10
• Travis High - 2/10

School ratings reflect Great Schools ratings as of January 2025. Ratings are subject to change at any time. Please verify ratings and boundaries with the school district.

Parks and Outdoor Activities Near Santa Monica Park

Many of the houses in Santa Monica are within a few steps of Mable Davis District Park. The park has plenty of jogging trails, sport courts and a public pool to enjoy in the warmer months. Sitting on the banks of Lady Bird Lake is the Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Park which is just minutes from Santa Monica Park. This is a great weekend park as there are plenty of soccer fields, baseball fields and weekend disc golf tournaments. Wherever your interest lie, you can find it within an easy drive from Santa Monica. With 71 and Hwy 35 being so accessible, everything from Downtown Austin to Bastrop County is a leisurely drive.

Santa Monica Park Photos

Santa Monica Park Sold Data – What Santa Monica Park Homes Actually Sold For

What sold recently in Santa Monica Park and for how much? Where can I find pictures of homes that actually sold? How many days does it take to sell a home in Santa Monica Park? How many homes are currently for sale in Santa Monica Park? What’s the median sold price in Santa Monica Park? What does the 90 day historic market trend look like in Santa Monica Park? How’s the Santa Monica Park market trending?

All of these questions (and more!) can be answered on our Santa Monica Park Sold Data Report.

Where Are the Best Coffee Shops to Work?

If you work remotely or enjoy spending time at coffee shops, Santa Monica Park gives you plenty of options nearby. Here are some local favorites:

• Radio/East (E Stassney Lane): Offers a spacious outdoor seating area with great coffee, breakfast tacos, and free Wi-Fi, perfect for remote work.
• Buzz Mill (Riverside): A cozy coffee house meets bar with plenty of tables for remote work.
• Spokesman – South (St. Elmo): A trendy spot featuring excellent cold brew, craft beer options, and a laid-back vibe for focused productivity.
• Cafe Creme (Oltorf): A charming cafe with delicious pastries and a cozy setting, ideal for a quiet work session or meeting.
• Noble Joe Coffee Co. (South Congress): A welcoming spot with superb coffee, ample seating, and a modern aesthetic, offering a great atmosphere for both work and relaxation.

Each spot offers great coffee and a welcoming environment for productivity or catching up with friends.

Favorite Restaurants and Bars

East Austin’s culinary scene is one of the best in the city, and Santa Monica Park’s location means you’re never far from delicious food and drinks. Here are some popular spots:

• Huckleberry (East Austin): Known for its fresh, locally sourced Gulf seafood and creative dishes, this food truck offers a casual yet flavorful dining experience that showcases southern coastal cuisine.
• Bella Donna Subs (East Austin): A local favorite for hearty and flavorful sandwiches, offering a variety of handcrafted subs made with fresh, high-quality ingredients and house-made sauces.
• Sawyer & Co. (Riverside): A bright diner serving elevated Southern classics.
• Whisler’s (East Austin): A trendy bar known for its craft cocktails and lively atmosphere.
• Meanwhile Brewing (Southeast Austin): A family-friendly brewery offering a wide selection of craft beers, delicious food trucks on-site, and a spacious outdoor area with regular live music and community events.
• Pinthouse Brewing (Multiple Locations): Renowned for its award-winning craft beers, particularly the fresh and hoppy IPAs, paired with a rotating menu of artisan pizzas and a welcoming atmosphere.

From casual bites to upscale dining, there’s something for everyone.

Where to Stay Active

For fitness lovers, there are plenty of options to stay active near Santa Monica Park:

• Mabel Davis District Park: Jogging trails and a public lap pool make it easy to break a sweat.
• Planet Fitness (Riverside): A fully equipped gym with personal training options.
• Onnit Gym (Southeast Austin): A state-of-the-art facility offering unconventional training tools, professional coaching, and fitness classes designed to build strength and optimize performance.
• Atomic Athlete (Southeast Austin): A performance-focused training facility specializing in building strength, endurance, and resilience through structured programs and expert coaching.
• Yoga Yoga (East Side): A peaceful spot to perfect your poses.

Prefer exploring the outdoors? The jogging trails and wide-open spaces at Mabel Davis or Roy G. Guerrero Park are perfect for runners, walkers, and short hikes.

Fun Things to Do Nearby

When it comes to fun, Santa Monica Park puts you close to the action. Some fun options include:

• Lady Bird Lake: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the beautiful Austin skyline from the water.
• East Austin Studio Tour: Discover the work of local artists during this annual event.
• Urban Axes: Experience the thrill of axe throwing in a fun, safe environment. Perfect for groups, parties, or just trying something new, Urban Axes combines excitement with a unique challenge.
• Downtown Austin: Enjoy live music, unique bars, and a thriving nightlife scene just minutes away.
• Austin Bouldering Project: Test your climbing skills indoors at this welcoming bouldering gym, which features routes for all experience levels, as well as yoga and fitness classes to round out your visit.

Your New Life in Santa Monica Park Awaits

Santa Monica Park is a hidden gem in East Austin with plenty to offer home buyers. From its spacious lots and mid-century homes to its proximity to parks and trendy local spots, it’s easy to see why so many people are drawn to this neighborhood. If you’re ready to explore homes and learn more about what Santa Monica Park has to offer, we’re here to help.

Contact one of our experienced Santa Monica Park buyer’s agents today to schedule a consultation and find the home of your dreams.

Thanks for reading our Santa Monica Park neighborhood guide.

East Austin Realtor Specializing in Santa Monica Park Homes

Contact an East Austin Realtor Specializing in Santa Monica Park