Are you searching for an affordable home in Austin without sacrificing access to local amenities or a quick commute? Southeast Austin’s McKinney Heights is drawing attention from first-time home buyers for all the right reasons. McKinney Heights is a newer home community built by KB Homes in Southeast Austin. Residents also enjoy amenities like pool, kids playground and sport courts that you would expect in more expensive neighborhoods. McKinney Heights can be accessed from E Slaughter Lane and is an easy drive to IH-35 and the airport. This comprehensive McKinney Heights neighborhood guide will walk you through the unique features of the community, what daily living looks like, highlights on local amenities, and the best spots for food, coffee, and staying active. Whether you’re local or relocating, you’ll find actionable insights to help you move forward with confidence. Scroll Down to Read our McKinney Heights Neighborhood Guide.
McKinney Heights Homes for Sale
SEARCH ALL MCKINNEY HEIGHTS HOMES FOR SALENo Email Required!
McKinney Heights Neighborhood Map
McKinney Heights is located off Thaxton Road. To get to McKinney Heights, take William Cannon East. Make a right on McKinney Falls Pky and a right on Thaxton Road followed by a left on Alum Rock Drive and a left on Winter Haven Rd to Baythorne. McKinney Heights is shaded in green on the map below. Explore other Southeast Austin neighborhoods in our Southeast Austin Neighborhood Guide. Scroll down to continue reading our McKinney Heights neighborhood guide.
Welcome to McKinney Heights
Built by KB Homes between 2007 and 2014, McKinney Heights offers approachable entry-level homeownership in one of Austin’s fastest-growing corridors. This subdivision, tucked between E Slaughter Lane and Thaxton Road, puts you minutes from I-35, Hwy 183, and William Cannon. The area is evolving rapidly, with the growth fueled by neighboring Easton Park and improvements like the Slaughter Lane extension, dramatically improving commuter access.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this guide:
- What the McKinney Heights neighborhood looks like, including home styles and finishes
- A detailed look at daily life and what amenities are on offer
- Why first-time buyers are choosing this community
- Facts about school options, commute convenience, and local hot spots
Exploring McKinney Heights
Streets and Setting
Driving into McKinney Heights, you’ll notice quiet residential streets bordered by maturing trees. The neighborhood’s layout is straightforward, making it great for those who appreciate less traffic and easy navigation. Alum Rock Drive and Winter Haven Road form the core arteries, leading to a community shaded by greenery that continues to develop as the area matures.
Home Styles and Features
Homes in McKinney Heights follow the recognizable KB Homes style:
- Brick exteriors, often with siding on the sides
- Mostly single or two-story floor plans
- Open-concept layouts with functional kitchens and living spaces
- Modest builder-grade interior finishes, unless updated by remodels
What does this mean for buyers? The more basic finish-out keeps prices approachable, making these homes excellent options for those prioritizing value over luxury upgrades. For buyers interested in customizing their space, this feature offers the perfect starting point.
Quick facts
- Homes built between 2007–2014
- Average size ranges from 1,250 to 2,400 square feet
- Many properties include private backyards and attached garages
What It’s Like Living in McKinney Heights
Living in McKinney Heights strikes a balance between affordability and convenience. The community vibe is friendly, with neighbors out walking pets or kids pedaling along the sidewalks. The ongoing development around Easton Park has ushered in more retail, dining, and recreational options within a short drive.
Security and peace of mind are regularly cited by residents. Nighttime feels quiet, and the consistent upkeep of both homes and shared spaces adds to a sense of stability.
Neighborhood Amenities
A highlight for buyers is the suite of amenities uncommon at this price point in Austin:
- Community pool, ideal during the Texas summer months
- Playgrounds and green spaces for relaxing outdoors
- Multi-use sport courts perfect for a quick basketball game or evening tennis
With HOA fees generally on the lower end for Austin communities, maintenance of shared spaces is dependable. The maturing trees and well-kept landscaping further add to the neighborhood’s welcoming environment.
Why Home Buyers Choose McKinney Heights
Location and Accessibility
- Convenient Commutes
Quick connection to I-35 and Hwy 183 makes travel to downtown Austin, the airport, and major employers efficient.
Slaughter Lane extension has notably improved access.
- Proximity to Emerging Hotspots
Residents benefit from the influx of new amenities from Easton Park and throughout Southeast Austin.
- Affordability
One of the few neighborhoods where you can find modern construction within reach for many first-time buyers.
Value and Community
- Entry-level pricing combined with a strong sense of neighborhood pride
- A quiet, residential atmosphere with a growing sense of community engagement
Commuting and Getting Around
- To Downtown Austin: About 20–25 minutes by car, depending on traffic
- Austin-Bergstrom Airport: Roughly 20 minutes
- Tech and employment centers: Easy access via I-35 and 183
The neighborhood’s location also supports alternative commutes, like carpooling or bike routes, thanks to expanding infrastructure. Scroll down to continue reading our McKinney Heights neighborhood guide.
McKinney Heights Property Tax Rate
The property tax rate in Southeast Austin’s McKinney Heights neighborhood is 1.8092% as of the 2023 tax year, down from 1.9749% as of the 2022 tax year. The property tax rate was 2.1767% as of the 2021 tax year.
McKinney Heights Schools
Kids who live in Southeast Austin’s McKinney Heights’ neighborhood are served by the Austin ISD and will likely attend the following schools:
- Blazier Elementary - 6/10
- Paredes Middle - 2/10
- Akins High - 3/10
School ratings reflect Great Schools ratings as of January 2025. Ratings are subject to change at any time. Please verify ratings and boundaries with the school district.
McKinney Heights Photos
McKinney Heights Sold Data – What McKinney Heights Homes Actually Sold For
What sold recently in McKinney Heights and for how much? Where can I find pictures of homes that actually sold? How many days does it take to sell a home in McKinney Heights? How many homes are currently for sale in McKinney Heights? What’s the median sold price in McKinney Heights? What does the 90 day historic market trend look like in McKinney Heights? How’s the McKinney Heights market trending?
All of these questions (and more!) can be answered on our McKinney Heights Sold Data Report
Where to Work Remotely
Whether you’re a remote professional or student, these neighborhood coffee shops make productive work sessions easy:
- Cenizo – A cozy new favorite with plenty of outlets and a low-key ambiance
- Doxa Coffee Roasters – Renowned for excellent espresso, light bites, and a welcoming workspace
- Stouthaus Coffee – A local favorite with ample room and a neighborly feel, just a short drive away
Favorite Restaurants and Bars
Looking for great eats and a place to unwind? Here are a few top picks:
- Five Four Restaurant and Drafthouse – Classic American fare and an impressive selection of local beers
- The Little Darlin’ – Relaxed spot with live music and a large backyard area
- Texas Roadhouse – Known for their hearty steaks and fresh bread
- Jaipur Palace– Indian cuisine that locals rave about
- Casita Nicole – Family-operated Tex-Mex and breakfast tacos
- The Far Out Lounge and Stage – Funky spot for food, craft drinks, and live entertainment in one place
Where to Stay Active
Fitness is front and center in and around McKinney Heights. Your local options include:
- CrossFit Austin – Challenging classes and a supportive fitness community
- Planet Fitness – Affordable and accessible gym facilities
- Orangetheory and F45 Training Southpark Meadows – High-energy group classes to keep motivation high
- Onion Creek Greenbelt and Metropolitan Park – Miles of trails, shaded walking paths, and plenty of room for outdoor workouts
- McKinney Falls State Park – A regional gem for hiking, biking, rock hopping, or just connecting with nature
Fun Things to Do Near McKinney Heights
Weekend plans come easy with a variety of nearby options:
- Live music and shows at The Far Out Lounge or The Little Darlin’
- Outdoor adventures in Onion Creek Metropolitan Park or McKinney Falls State Park
- Golf and recreation at Roy Kizer Golf Course or Onion Creek Club
- Easton Park events just a few minutes away, which often include food trucks, markets, and community gatherings
Next Steps for Home Buyers
Choosing a home is about more than just the house itself. McKinney Heights offers an inviting blend of affordability, location, developing amenities, and access to all that Southeast Austin has to offer. If you’re comparing neighborhoods or want a tailored list of homes that suit your needs, connecting with a local McKinney Heights buyer’s agent can save you time and provide insider advantages.
To start your search or get advice on the buying process, consider reaching out for a customized tour or virtual walkthrough of the area’s listings.
We hope you enjoyed reading our McKinney Heights neighborhood guide.
Southeast Austin Realtor Specializing in McKinney Heights Homes
Rebecca Jacks and Raymond Stoklosa are Southeast Austin Realtors specializing in McKinney Heights homes. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell a home in McKinney Heights, Rebecca and Raymond know the area well and have the experience and tools necessary to make your next real estate transaction stress free. For more info about who we are and how we work, check out Buying a Home in McKinney Heights and Selling a Home in McKinney Heights.
