Working from home has redefined how we think about neighborhoods. Without the need for a daily commute, professionals are prioritizing lifestyle, convenience, and comfort over proximity to a traditional office. But with so many options to consider, how do you find the perfect neighborhood that aligns with your work-from-home lifestyle? We gave you our list of Best Austin Neighborhoods for Remote Workers but we made some assumptions to create that list that might not be your preferences. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to choose a neighborhood that doesn’t just work after hours but supports you 24/7—including during the 9-to-5 grind. Whether you’re looking to relocate within Austin or move here for the first time, these tips will help you find a neighborhood designed to enhance your productivity, wellness, and enjoyment.
How to Choose a Neighborhood when Working from Home
When you are buying a home in Austin and know you’ll be working from home, there is a more thorough set of criteria you’ll want to think through to ensure you are going to be happy with your purchase for years to come. Here are our tips for how to choose a neighborhood when working from home.
1. Prioritize Daytime Walkability
When working from home, your neighborhood often becomes an extension of your office. Having accessible spots for a midday walk, a coffee break, or fresh air is essential to break up the day and recharge. The ability to step outside conveniently and safely boosts both physical and mental well-being.
What to Look For:
- Sidewalk-lined streets for safe walks and bike rides
- Local cafes or parks within walking distance
- Mixed-use developments or village-style communities
- Accessible jogging trails or greenbelts
Neighborhoods to Consider:
- Mueller: This urban gem blends suburban comfort with a walkable town center, featuring cafes, parks, and trails.
- South Austin (78704): Popular areas like South Lamar and Bouldin Creek offer shaded streets, food trucks, and trendy coffee shops.
- Crestview/Brentwood: Situated near Burnet Road, these neighborhoods offer easy access to restaurants, gyms, and green spaces on foot or by bike.
2. Seek Quiet, Livable Streets
For the work-from-home professional, peace and quiet are non-negotiable. Whether you’re on Zoom calls, focused on deadlines, or taking a quick mental reset, avoiding noisy environments is key to staying productive.
Noise Factors to Avoid:
- Proximity to busy highways or major intersections
- Schools or commercial spaces with heavy foot and vehicle traffic
- Nearby construction zones or airplane flight paths (especially near ABIA)
Noise-Buffering Features:
- Mature trees and landscaping
- Larger lot sizes
- Homes situated away from main roads
Top Picks for Quiet Living:
- Circle C: Located in Southwest Austin, this peaceful community boasts tree-lined streets and established charm.
- Steiner Ranch: Nestled between Lake Austin and Lake Travis, this master-planned community offers serenity and scenic views.
- Dripping Springs: For those looking for more space and tranquility, neighborhoods like Caliterra and Headwaters provide a countryside feel with modern amenities.
3. Make Midday Amenities a Priority
Working remotely doesn’t mean you’re stuck at home all day. Access to convenient amenities can make a significant difference in your everyday routine. Whether it’s hitting a nearby fitness studio, grabbing lunch at a local cafe, or strolling through farmers markets, having lifestyle perks nearby enriches your workday.
Amenities to Consider:
- Community pools, gyms, or rec centers
- Cafes, coworking spaces, or quiet lounges
- Grocery stores or small markets for quick errands
- Hiking and biking trails
Neighborhoods with Perks:
- Rough Hollow: With stunning trails, a fitness center, pools, and even a marina, this neighborhood is ideal for balancing work and play.
- Belterra: A short drive to Dripping Springs, Belterra offers parks, walking paths, and on-site amenities for residents.
- Easton Park: Close to downtown Austin, this vibrant community features a resort-style pool, dog park, fitness center, and sports courts.
4. Consider Proximity to the Airport
If work requires frequent travel, proximity to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is worth factoring in when choosing a neighborhood. Accessibility can save you a lot of time (and headaches) on travel days.
Pro Tips:
- An east/west commute to the airport (via Highway 71 or 290) is faster and more reliable than a north/south commute (via 183 or I-35).
- Suburban areas like Dripping Springs or neighborhoods around Lake Travis can sometimes offer better airport access during peak hours compared to areas farther north.
5. Think About Your Home’s Floor Plan
Your home isn’t just where you live when you work remotely—it’s also your office, meeting room, break space, and maybe even gym. Choosing a home with the right layout is critical to managing both your workday and your personal time.
Questions to Ask:
- Is the office space quiet and away from high-traffic areas in the house?
- Does the office have a nice view or enough natural light?
- Would you prefer a space you can “close off” after work hours?
- Does the kitchen accommodate a coffee nook or counter seating for breaks?
- Do you need additional rooms for other remote workers in the household?
6. Ensure Access to High-Speed Internet
Reliable internet is a must for remote work, but rural areas and up-and-coming neighborhoods might still have limited connectivity. Before committing to a property, confirm that the internet speed meets your job requirements.
Pro Tip:
When touring homes, ask sellers or neighbors about their internet service provider and check online coverage maps to compare providers.
7. Plan for Longevity
When selecting a neighborhood, think beyond the present. Your circumstances, preferences, and lifestyle may change, so choose a neighborhood that aligns with your long-term goals. Whether you’re considering hosting visitors, expanding your use of space, or moving towards a simpler lifestyle down the line, make sure the area remains compatible with your evolving needs.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a neighborhood when working from home involves more than finding square footage or a certain number of bedrooms. It’s about designing a lifestyle that supports your productivity, creativity, and well-being. By focusing on the right mix of walkability, peace and quiet, amenities, and functionality, you’ll find a neighborhood that works as hard during office hours as it does after.
Need Help Finding the Perfect Fit?
Our team specializes in helping professionals discover neighborhoods that match their lifestyles and needs. From expert market insights to tailored suggestions, we’re here to simplify your search. Check out our Austin Home Buyers section to learn a little bit more about our team and how we work. Call or text us at (512) 827-8323, email us at info@11OaksRealty.com, or complete our Buyer Survey to schedule a consultation.
Find your ideal live-work neighborhood today.
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