Why People Are Moving to Round Rock TX
Round Rock consistently ranks among the best cities in Texas and the United States for families, affordability, and quality of life. Home to Dell Technologies world headquarters, top-rated schools, and a thriving suburban lifestyle, Round Rock attracts corporate relocations, remote workers, and families seeking the best of the Austin metro without Austin's price tag.
Round Rock Quick Facts
- Population: approximately 140,000 (2024)
- County: Williamson County
- Distance to Austin: 20-30 miles north via I-35 or TX-130
- Median household income: ~$95,000
- Median home price: ~$390,000
- School district: Round Rock ISD
Best Neighborhoods in Round Rock
Teravista
Master-planned golf community with resort-style amenities. Prices: $380,000-$600,000. Family-oriented with excellent community events and HOA management.
Mayfield Ranch
Borderline Cedar Park/Round Rock. Top Leander ISD schools with Round Rock pricing. Prices: $400,000-$550,000.
Stone Canyon
Established neighborhood with mature trees and character. Prices: $350,000-$500,000. Highly walkable within neighborhood.
Vista Oaks
Affordable Round Rock entry point. Prices: $300,000-$400,000. Good access to I-35 and TX-45.
Cat Hollow / Forest Creek
Golf community near the Round Rock/Pflugerville border. Prices: $380,000-$550,000.
Round Rock ISD Schools
Round Rock ISD is one of the most respected school districts in Texas:
- Round Rock High School, McNeil High School, Stony Point High School, Cedar Ridge High School
- Consistently rated A by Texas Education Agency
- Strong athletic, fine arts, and STEM programs
- Multiple National Blue Ribbon Schools
Jobs and Economy
Major employers in Round Rock:
- Dell Technologies (world headquarters)
- IKEA Round Rock distribution
- Seton Medical Center Williamson
- Round Rock ISD
- Amazon fulfillment
- Multiple tech company campuses
Round Rock has one of the lowest unemployment rates in Texas and benefits from Austin's tech boom spillover.
Cost of Living in Round Rock
- Median home price: ~$390,000 (15-25% below Austin proper)
- 1BR rent: $1,300-$1,700/month
- 2BR rent: $1,600-$2,100/month
- Property taxes: approximately 2.0-2.3% annually
- No state income tax
Things to Do in Round Rock
- Dell Diamond: Minor league baseball (Round Rock Express)
- Round Rock Premium Outlets: Major shopping destination
- Old Settlers Park: 645 acres of parks, trails, sports fields, aquatic center
- La Frontera Village: Dining and retail hub
- Kalahari Resorts: Major indoor waterpark resort
- Downtown Round Rock: Growing dining and arts scene
Frequently Asked Questions
Round Rock is more affordable than Austin proper — home prices average 15-25% lower. Compared to major coastal cities, Round Rock is very affordable. Property taxes are higher than the national average but there is no state income tax. Overall cost of living is below Austin and far below California, New York, or Seattle.
Most of Round Rock is served by Round Rock Independent School District (RRISD), one of the highest-rated districts in Texas. Some western portions of Round Rock fall within Leander ISD. Both are excellent districts — check specific school assignments for any address you are considering at the RRISD or LISD websites.
Yes. Round Rock has crime rates significantly below national and Texas averages. It consistently ranks as one of the safest mid-size cities in Texas. Like any city, specific neighborhoods vary — check the Williamson County Sheriff's crime map for the specific area you're considering.
