Olympic Heights and Hillcrest are two Southwest Austin neighborhoods located off Manchaca in 78748. Often buyers find themselves choosing between these two neighborhoods. If you find yourself in that position, here is a guide to help you think through your decision.
Olympic Heights vs Hillcrest: Builders
Olympic Heights was built by DR Horton whereas Hillcrest was built by Buffington Homes and KB Homes. All three builders would be considered production builders, as they have limited floorplans and interior amenities to choose from. DR Horton and KB Homes are both large national builders while Buffington is a local Austin builder.
Olympic Heights vs Hillcrest: Size of Home for Your Money
Hillcrest is the clear winner here. You can find homes upwards of 3,500 sq ft in Hillcrest whereas the biggest home you’d find in Olympic Heights is just about 2,000 sq ft. But, in Hillcrest you have to go into each home to see how the floorplan is laid out. Some of the homes have strangely proportioned layouts and you’ll want to make sure your family will use the space.
Olympic Heights vs Hillcrest Schools
In the schools category, Olympic Heights wins out.
| Olympic Heights Schools | Hillcrest Schools |
|---|---|
| Baranoff Elementary – Exemplary | Menchaca Elementary – Recognized |
| Bailey Middle – Recognized | Bailey Middle – Recognized |
| Bowie High – Recognized | Akins High – Academically Acceptable |
| Akins High – Academically Acceptable |
The ratings above reflect the 2011-2012 TEA ratings. Ratings are subject to change at any time and without notice. Confirm ratings and boundaries with the school district directly.
About ⅓ of Olympic Heights attends the same schools as Shady Hollow residents (a neighborhood most well known for its highly rated schools). The rest of the neighborhood attends the same elementary and middle schools as Shady Hollow and Akins High School. If you’re looking for the best schools, Olympic Heights is the clear winner.
Keep in mind, even though you may not have school aged children, schools have a great deal to do with keeping property values high. In 2014, the average price per square foot in Hillcrest was $87 whereas the average price per square foot in Olympic Heights was $131. Historically homes in the best school districts have held their value over time better than homes in inferior districts.
Olympic Heights vs Hillcrest: Amenities
Both Olympic Heights and Hillcrest have a community pool. Olympic Heights does have a jogging trail as well as some green space throughout the neighborhood. But, if all you are going to use is the pool, both pools are adequate. I would call this a draw.
Olympic Heights vs Hillcrest: HOA
Membership in the neighborhood’s HOA is mandatory for both Olympic Heights and Hillcrest. Olympic Heights HOA is managed by RealManage while Hillcrest is managed by Cap Stone. Both neighborhoods have HOA dues of around $33/month.
Olympic Heights Homes for Sale
Hillcrest Homes for Sale
More Info About Olympic Heights and Hillcrest
For more info about Olympic Heights, check out our Olympic Heights Neighborhood Guide. For more info about Hillcrest, check out our Hillcrest Neighborhood Guide.
Looking to Buy in Olympic Heights or Hillcrest?
We specialize in the area and know it well. We can save you time and money and help guide you through the process of buying a home. Check out our Austin Home Buyer Representation Program to learn more about us and how we’re different. Then, call us at (512) 827-8323, fill out our Buyer Survey or email us at info@11OaksRealty.com to schedule a no obligation consultation.
FWIW, I’d stay away from the Hillcrest neighborhood in South Austin. We’ve rented there for two years thinking we’d buy a house there and have been broken into twice. There is NO WAY I’d buy a home in Hillcrest now. HOA is focused on removing portable basketball goals instead of addressing the crime. There is little to no police presence although the area is filled with vagrants. It was nice when the area was quite and safe.
Thanks for your candid feedback! This certainly will help our readers.
Really helpful information! Thanks.