Moving to South Austin with Kids? Here’s What Families Love Most About 78748 & Beyond

Is South Austin a good place to raise a family?

If you're planning a move and have kids, you're probably wondering which parts of Austin offer the right balance of schools, space, safety, and fun. At Holley Homes Realty, we help parents make smart, confident moves every week—and South Austin stands out as a top choice for families relocating to Central Texas.

From ZIP codes like 78748 and 78745 to master-planned neighborhoods and great schools, here’s why South Austin continues to attract families from across the country.

Top Family-Friendly Neighborhoods in South Austin

​Circle C Ranch (78739)

• Resort-style amenities: pools, parks, and trails
• Bowie High School and Kiker Elementary (Austin ISD)
• Homes from the $600s to $1M+

​Tanglewood Forest (78748)

• Affordable homes from the $300s
• Community park, walking trails, and pool
• No HOA and a laid-back suburban vibe

​Shady Hollow (78739)

• Large lots and mature trees
• Zoned to top-rated Baranoff Elementary
• Great for multi-generational living or growing families

​Cherry Creek (78745)

• Walkable to Garrison Park and Central Market
• Unique mix of updated ranch homes
• Prices from $350K to $700K

​Schools That Families Trust​

South Austin is home to several highly rated public and private schools. Many neighborhoods are zoned to:

• Bowie High School
  • A top Austin ISD campus with strong academics and athletics
• Baranoff Elementary
  • Rated 8/10 on GreatSchools and known for its strong PTA and teacher support
• Casey Elementary & Cowan Elementary
  • Popular with 78748 residents

Looking for private options? Families also explore:

• Headwaters School
• Austin Waldorf School
• Veritas Academy

Parks, Playgrounds & Outdoor Fun

One of the biggest perks of moving to South Austin with kids is the access to green space:

• Mary Moore Searight Park (300+ acres of trails, sports fields, and dog parks)
• Circle C Ranch Metro Park (soccer, playgrounds, trails)
• ​Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center (education + nature)
• Southpark Meadows Park (green space next to major shopping)

Family-Focused Amenities

• Play Street Museum – Sunset Valley – Indoor learning + fun
• ​The Hive – Coffee, coworking, and kid-friendly playground
• ​Thicket Food Park – Shaded food trucks with picnic space
• Way South Food Truck Park – Rotating food options, live music, and space to roam

Local Quote:

“South Austin offers space to grow, great schools, and true neighborhood vibes. It’s why so many of our relocating families end up in 78748 or 78739.” — Brandon Holley, Broker, Holley Homes Realty

Affordability & Growth

South Austin is one of the few parts of the city where you can still find homes under $350,000—especially in neighborhoods like Tanglewood Forest, Buckingham Estates, and parts of 78748. According to the Austin Board of Realtors, ZIP 78748 saw 6.7% year-over-year price appreciation in 2024, showing strong but steady growth.

Walkability & Convenience

Many South Austin neighborhoods are walkable to:

• Grocery stores (H-E-B, Central Market, Sprouts)
• Restaurants (Cypress Grill, Cruzteca, Pie Bar)
• Parks and playgrounds
• Local schools and daycare centers

That means less driving, more quality time, and a true sense of community.

Common Questions from Families

1. Where can I find affordable homes near Austin with good schools?

    Try 78748, especially neighborhoods like Tanglewood Forest, Cherry Creek, and Southland Oaks.

2. What’s traffic like during school drop-off and commute times?

    South Austin offers several alternate routes, including Slaughter Lane, Brodie, MoPac, and SH 45. Commutes are manageable, especially for hybrid workers.

3. How does South Austin compare to the suburbs?

    You’ll get more personality, access to Austin culture, and shorter commutes—while still enjoying great schools and safe neighborhoods.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re moving from out of state or upgrading for more space, South Austin is one of the best places to raise a family in Central Texas. With great schools, friendly neighbors, and space to grow, 78748 and surrounding ZIPs are full of promise.

Let’s find your family’s perfect fit.

Call or text Brandon Holley at 512.487.9242 | Email Brandon Holley at brandon@holleyhomesrealty.com

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