Austin’s reputation as a thriving metropolis facilitates its outward spread, and as homebuyers seek more square footage for their growing families, nearby suburbs continue to increase in population and prominence. 

One of the largest suburban communities in the metro Austin region, Cedar Park boasts a prime location between the Lone Star capital and the neighboring tech hub of Round Rock. With a vibrant and affordable real estate market, excellent public school options, and a lively array of shopping and dining destinations, Cedar Park earns its popularity as a place for both new and long-time Austinites to set down roots.

History of Cedar Park

historic cedar park sign with recreational park in background and man walking on sidewalk
Cedar Park is no stranger to the Austin area

Prior to European settlement, Cedar Park served as a home and community for Native American tribes like the Tonkawa and the Comanche. The first European residents arrived in the late 19th century, dubbing the area “Running Brushy” due to the spring that formed the headwaters of the creek. Running Brushy eventually became “Cedar Park” in 1887 after the opening of the eponymous greenspace. After nearly a century of unofficial “town” status, Cedar Park was formally incorporated in 1973. 

Home Styles and Prices

corner of neighborhood street with people walking by and various houses in the background
You can find various types and values of homes in Cedar Park.

The majority of Cedar Park’s housing inventory comes in the form of single-family homes. Due to the region’s residential demand, master-planned communities are a common occurrence throughout this Austin suburb, with developments like Anderson Mill West, The Ranch at Brushy Creek, and Buttercup Creek all claiming territory within Cedar Park city limits.

Homes for sale in Cedar Park are priced starting in the low $100s and reach up to the low $700s, with homes in elite master-planned communities like Bella Vista and West Parke pushing up property values for the entire area.

Schools and Family-Friendly Amenities

outside of school playground and school building with surrounding neighborhood
Cedar Park offers only the best for you and your family.

Due to Cedar Park’s geographic positioning, students in the area attend schools in two different districts, depending on their specific location within the city. The majority of school-aged Cedar Park residents are served by the Leander Independent School District, a highly-rated public school system achieving a 95 percent for state accountability standards in 2018 and a four-year high school graduation rate of 99 percent.

Students living in the southern and easternmost regions of Cedar Park attend schools within the Round Rock Independent School District, which according to the Austin-American Statesman, outperforms other school districts in Central Texas and earned “Met Standards” ratings from the Texas Education Agency in 2018.

Cedar Park features a variety of activities and amenities geared toward families. The Austin Steam Train allows history-savvy families to enjoy scenic Hill Country rides on a vintage locomotive, and its headquarters (with a railroad museum) can be found in Cedar Park. Cedar Park also contains a half-dozen golf courses with play options for all ages. Families who love waterfront and outdoor activities can make the quick jaunt to Lake Travis to boat, fish, hike, or cruise on zip lines.

Shops, Restaurants, and Entertainment

outdoor patio with peaople drinking and eating in neighborhood
Check out the great businesses within Cedar Park

Cedar Park’s shopping scene involves a powerful combination of independent, local boutiques, big-box retailers, and shopping malls for efficient one-stop excursions. 

Indie faves like Grit & Grace Boutique offers unique home decor and on-trend women’s fashions, and bulk candy emporium Sweet Shack Candy Shop keeps the small business ethos strong in Cedar Park.

For day-to-day necessities, Costco, Target, and a Walmart Supercenter can all be found within city limits. Just south of Cedar Park, the Lakeline Mall hosts outposts of major retailers. In addition to the big-box stores, residents in Cedar Park can also gather their supplies at three H-E-B locations in town as well as Trader Joe’s in nearby North Burnet.

While Cedar Park residents can take full advantage of the world-class restaurant scene in Austin proper, they can also find excellent dining options in town. Alamo Drafthouse, the movie theater serving full meals and creative cocktails, now has a location in Cedar Park. Other popular local haunts for bites and drinks include The Grove Wine Bar & Kitchen and Big Cat BBQ. 

Sports fans in the Cedar Park area flock to H-E-B Center, a massive arena that’s home to the Austin Spurs and Texas Stars. The space also regularly features musical performances from local and visiting artists, making it a prime locale for Cedar Park entertainment.

What It’s Like to Live Here

busy park with children playing and women talking on bench
There's always something going on around Cedar Park.

Cedar Park’s size renders it an impressive middle ground for residents seeking the space and neighborhood vibes of the suburbs without sacrificing the conveniences of the city. The town’s robust shopping and dining landscapes work in tandem with its beautiful natural surroundings to create an ideal atmosphere for all facets of its growing population.

Staying healthy in Cedar Park is an easy task, thanks to the town’s numerous gyms, fitness centers, and studios. Residents seeking outdoor activities can run, hike, and bike throughout the town’s several parks, which feature designated trails and paths. Notable green spaces in Cedar Park include Brushy Creek Lake Park, Lakeline Park, and Town Center Park.