When people think about Austin real estate, the spotlight usually shines directly on the city itself. But just outside Austin’s core, smaller communities are booming — and smart buyers and investors are starting to pay attention.

If you’ve been priced out of central Austin or you’re looking for the next wave of opportunity, four nearby cities are proving to be strong bets: Buda, Kyle, Pflugerville, and Manor.

Why Look Beyond Austin?

Austin’s rapid growth has created a ripple effect. As tech companies expand, remote workers relocate, and infrastructure improves, nearby cities are seeing:

• More affordable entry points compared to central Austin.

• Steady appreciation fueled by demand spillover.

• Community development with schools, parks, and shopping centers following new rooftops.

For buyers, this means you can still get in early while enjoying the lifestyle perks that come with small-town charm and easy access to the city.

Buda

Located just 15 miles south of downtown Austin, Buda has been called the “Outdoor Capital of Texas” thanks to its parks and trails. Homebuyers love its balance of small-town feel and quick access to I-35. Master-planned communities and new construction are pushing values up, but prices remain competitive compared to Austin proper.

Buyer Tip: Buda appeals to families and first-time buyers looking for affordability without sacrificing quality schools.

Kyle

Kyle is one of the fastest-growing cities in all of Texas. Major employers and new retail hubs are bringing jobs closer to home, which means fewer commutes for residents. With strong city planning and growth-friendly policies, Kyle has become a magnet for builders and buyers alike.

Buyer Tip: Investors are watching Kyle closely because rental demand has been steadily rising alongside population growth.

Pflugerville

Positioned between Austin and Round Rock, Pflugerville offers convenience in every direction. The city is known for its family-friendly vibe, great schools, and strong community events. With quick access to the tech corridor and SH-130, it’s no wonder Pflugerville is attracting long-term buyers.

Buyer Tip: Pflugerville is perfect for buyers who want suburban comfort but still need a manageable commute to Austin’s tech employers.

Manor

Just east of Austin, Manor has transformed from rural farmland to one of the hottest development zones. With Tesla’s Gigafactory nearby and other major employers moving in, this once-overlooked city is now on every investor’s radar.

Buyer Tip: Manor is still relatively affordable compared to other suburbs — making it one of the best “buy now before it spikes” opportunities.

Final Thoughts: The Smart Play is Just Outside Austin

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a family looking for more space, or an investor watching for appreciation and rental growth, these four cities — Buda, Kyle, Pflugerville, and Manor — are worth exploring.

The Dillar Group has helped buyers and sellers across Central Texas navigate these emerging markets, and we know firsthand how quickly opportunities can shift.

👉 Thinking of buying in one of these fast-growing areas? Contact us today to get a personalized market analysis and start your home search.