Round Rock recently found itself on Money Magazine’s Best Cities to Live in the US in 2019, coming in at #2. Austin area residents have known Round Rock’s merits for some time. It has even gotten some national recognition, named one of the safest cities in America. But, this overall “best city to live” nod will surely attract more attention to this not so little Austin suburb.
What Criteria Did Money Magazine Use to Make the List?
First, they took cities with at least 50,000 people. If there were more than 300,000 people in a city, they broke it down into neighborhoods and considered neighborhoods with 5,000-200,000 people.
After they had that list, they took out cities/neighborhoods that had more than double the national crime risk, less than 85% of their state’s income and no ethnic diversity. From there they came up with 1,796 places.
From those 1,796, they took 160 data points in categories like economic health, cost of living, ethnic and economic diversity, public education, income, health and safety, amenities and ease of living.
Needless to say, this was an extensively researched list and Round Rock should be pleased to find themselves so highly rated.
What Other Cities Made the Best Places to Live in the US in 2019 List?
- Clarksville, TN
- Round Rock, TX
- Fishers, IN
- Fulton River District, IL
- Country Club Heights, NC
- Draper, UT
- Bentonville, AR
- Madison, WI
- Meridian, ID
- Winter Garden, FL
Interesting picks, when you consider many of them are fairly small cities. But, a range of cities nonetheless.
Considering a Move to Round Rock? Let’s Dig a Little Deeper
If you’re considering relocating to the Austin area, you’ve likely read some about Round Rock. What specifically makes Round Rock a good fit? Let me explain why residents happily choose to make Round Rock their home.
What Draws Residents to Round Rock?
The most well known northern suburb of Austin, Round Rock attracts residents looking for a lower cost of living, family oriented events, highly rated schools and well paying jobs. Austin is a great city, but it is becoming more and more crowded, housing prices are soaring and schools are not as well rated overall as they are in Round Rock. Plus, many tech companies are located north or in Round Rock, so living in Round Rock makes for an easier commute.
Not only that, Round Rock is more kid and family oriented than neighboring suburbs with more parks, events and activities. Pflugerville is a close second, but Round Rock still takes the cake.
Well Paying Jobs are Abundant
According to Money Magazine’s statistics, the median household income in Round Rock is $82,229 with a 60% home ownership rate. Williamson County has seen a 41% increase in jobs, which gives residents options and stability and the unemployment rate is only 3.1%. Plus, there are varying job types. Not only is Round Rock home to Dell Computers, there are other tech companies (both small and large) as well as many small to medium size businesses in many different industries. So, you aren’t stuck if you aren’t in the tech industry.
Round Rock Homes are Affordable
Housing is another reason families choose Round Rock. Factoring closed sales over the past 3 months, the median home price in Round Rock is only $295,000, compared to $421,000 for Austin, making it much more affordable only 20 miles away. Not only do families end up spending less in Round Rock, they also get more for their money without giving anything up.
What’s it Like Living in Round Rock?
It really depends on where in Round Rock you live. If you live near Downtown Round Rock, it has more of a small town feel. There are bars and restaurants galore. And, they’re much more low key than the bar scene on 6th Street in Austin. Downtown Round Rock is a much more “grown up” place to go out. You’ll still be entertained without feeling like you’re at a fraternity party. In terms of real estate, homes near Downtown Round Rock are 30-40 years old, so you’ll find bigger lots and more of a mid century modern look. Many of them have been updated to resemble the cute style you see on Chip and Joanna’s Fixer Upper, so if you’re wanting move-in ready, don’t rule this area out. For someone looking for something outside your typical suburban lifestyle, homes near Downtown Round Rock are a great alternative.
If you live in one of the master planned communities, it will feel much more like a traditional suburb. You’ll find homes that are 10-20 years old, so you’ll be able to find some similarities in floorplan and finish out. You’ll also likely get amenities like a community pool, playground, walking trails, HOA activities, on-site elementary and middle schools and community centers. It’s much more suburban living with plenty of activities built in to your daily life. If you’re looking for a newer home and don’t mind driving to do your shopping and dining, a master planned community is ideal for you.
Curious to Check Out a Few Round Rock Neighborhoods?
For a global perspective, check out our Round Rock Neighborhood Guide where we’ve broken down many of the neighborhoods in Round Rock. If the global view is too much, check out our Best Round Rock Neighborhoods post where we’ve given you some fan favorites.
Think Round Rock Might Be a Good Fit? We Can Help You Find the Perfect Home
Not only have we relocated here, we’ve helped many families relocate to the Round Rock area. We know the city well and can help you determine which neighborhood is right for you and your family. With some additional info about what you’re looking for, we can tell you whether or not you can find it in Round Rock, or if you’d be better off looking in a neighboring city. To schedule a no obligation conversation, call us at (512) 827-8323, email us at info@11OaksRealty.com or fill out our Home Buyer Survey. One of our Round Rock specialists will help get you started on the right track.
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