Northwest Hills

Scenic Vistas and Hill Country Living. Northwest Austin.

The Vibe

Perched atop rolling hills with panoramic views of the surrounding Hill Country, Northwest Hills is a scenic and affluent neighborhood that feels like a luxurious retreat within the city. Known for its majestic homes, lush landscapes, and abundant green space, it offers a family-friendly community with a quiet, rejuvenating atmosphere. It’s a place where wildlife sightings are common and the rugged beauty of former quarries and canyons is woven into the environment.48

The Story

Developed largely between the mid-1960s and the late 1990s, Northwest Hills was built to embrace its dramatic topography.49 The neighborhood’s winding streets follow the contours of the hills, and homes are strategically positioned to capture stunning views. The area’s past as a site for quarries has left a unique mark on the landscape, with natural canyons and mesas dotting the community.48 A significant portion of the neighborhood is dedicated to preservation areas and greenbelts, reflecting a community value for maintaining its natural beauty. This commitment is supported by the active Northwest Austin Civic Association (NWACA), which serves the area and organizes community-building events and initiatives.48

The Lifestyle

The lifestyle in Northwest Hills is deeply connected to its beautiful and rugged environment. Residents are often found exploring the greenbelts, hiking with their pets at Bull Creek District Park, or taking on the challenge of cycling the hilly roads.48 The neighborhood has a serene, oasis-like feel, with many homes backing up to wooded canyons, providing a sense of privacy and a direct connection to nature.48 Despite its secluded atmosphere, Northwest Hills offers excellent access to major commercial centers and employers. It’s just a 7-10 minute drive to The Domain and a 10-15 minute drive to downtown Austin, making it a convenient choice for professionals and families.50 The area is also home to excellent schools, including Doss Elementary and Anderson High, as well as the Shalom Austin Jewish Community Center, which serves as a vibrant hub for cultural and recreational activities.48

The Homes

The homes in Northwest Hills are known for their architectural diversity, quality construction, and spaciousness. The housing stock includes a mix of styles, from classic Mid-Century Modern and California Ranch homes to traditional Colonial and grand Texas Tuscan villas.49 Homes are typically large, ranging from 2,000 to 5,000 square feet, and are situated on generous lots of a quarter-acre to a half-acre, with some properties reaching two or three acres.50 Common features include brick and limestone exteriors that connect the homes to the Texas landscape, large windows to maximize the stunning views, and beautifully landscaped yards with mature oak trees.50 In recent years, many older homes have been stylishly remodeled, and some have been replaced with luxurious custom builds, further enhancing the neighborhood’s upscale appeal.49

Local’s Guide to Northwest Hills

• For the Best Views: A drive to Mount Bonnell, the highest point in Austin, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Colorado River at sunset.48
• For a Scenic Hike: Bull Creek District Park, a beloved green space with clear water, idyllic waterfalls, and miles of trails for hiking with family and pets.48
• For Community and Fitness: The Shalom Austin Jewish Community Center (JCC), which is open to all and offers a wide range of fitness classes, camps, and cultural events.48
• For a Quiet Escape: Bright Leaf Preserve, a 200-plus acre natural area offering guided hikes through the beautiful Hill Country landscape.49