Westlake

Living in Westlake: West Lake Hills and Rollingwood

When people in Austin say Westlake, they usually mean the area around West Lake Hills and Rollingwood, two small cities just west of central Austin across MoPac and Loop 360. West Lake Hills climbs the hills above Lake Austin along Bee Cave Road, and Rollingwood borders the Zilker area, so Barton Springs and the Greenbelt are close by.

What we love about it

The Hill Country starts right here. Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve offers trails just off Loop 360, and Rollingwood Park has ballfields, a walking trail and playgrounds. Neighborhood favorites like Kerbey Lane Cafe's Westlake branch and The Grove make it easy to stay close to home, while downtown is only a short drive away.

Getting around and schools

MoPac, Loop 360 and Bee Cave Road are the main routes, with US 290 and SH 71 to the south. Neither city is in CapMetro's service area, so most residents drive. It is worth trying the commute at rush hour before you decide. Eanes ISD serves both cities, including Westlake High School. School boundaries can change and do not always follow city lines, so we always suggest confirming the assigned schools for any specific address with the district.

Homes you'll find here

Homes here sit on wooded and hillside lots, many with Hill Country or lake views. You will find established homes, many of them updated, alongside newer custom builds, with lot sizes that vary a lot from street to street.

Parks, events and weekends

The Barton Creek Greenbelt is close by for hiking, swimming holes after a good rain and rock climbing. Zilker Park and Barton Springs Pool are just across the river, Lake Austin is down the hill for paddling and boating, and Wild Basin's trails are a quick drive up Loop 360.

Before you buy

Check a few things by the home's address, not just the city name: the school district, the property tax rates on the county appraisal district's site, and whether the home is in a MUD, PID or HOA, each of which can add its own taxes, assessments or dues. Look the home up on FEMA's flood maps, get homeowners insurance quotes early, and confirm which electric provider serves it, since that varies across the Austin area. West Lake Hills and Rollingwood each have their own permitting and building rules, so check with the city before you plan a remodel or new build. Ask about trees on the lot too, since protected trees can shape what you are able to build.

Let's talk about Westlake

Thinking about buying or selling in Westlake? Our Austin team is here to help, from our office at 111 Congress Ave, Suite 500. Call us at 512-647-2709 or send us a note, and we will get back to you soon.

For the bigger picture, download our free Welcome to Austin guide on our Austin area page.