Hyde Park, Austin Real Estate

What is Hyde Park like?

Hyde Park is indisputably among Austin's most established neighborhoods. It has a rich history (originally developed in the late 1800s) and a surprising mix of residential styles and types, including a number of apartment complexes and multifamily properties.

Though populated by a tremendous variety of residents, including families, university students, professors, young couples, singles, and empty nesters, Hyde Park has a genuine neighborhood feel.

Well cared-for yards and homes and towering oaks line the streets of Hyde Park. For buyers not looking for classic construction, Hyde Park is a great place to look.

What kind of houses and lots are in Hyde Park?

While homes in Hyde Park reflect every design phase of the past century, the majority were built between 1900 and 1950. Still, for buyers seeking newer construction or totally remodeled homes, Hyde Park real estate may fit the bill. New homes were built here as early as last year.

It's impossible to pinpoint a “typical Hyde Park house,” because there is no such thing. Homes here range from 500 square foot, one bedroom cottages and condos, to 5,000 square foot homes set on large lots.

As is to be expected from an area with so many older homes, condition runs the gamut from freshly updated to slightly-neglected, but most Hyde Park homes are in excellent condition.

What should I expect to spend for a house in Hyde Park?

Home prices in Hyde Park vary tremendously, depending on the size, location, property type, condition, and lot size. Buyers shopping for a small, one-bedroom condominium converted from an apartment complex can spend around $150,000, but most homes in Hyde Park will cost much more. Regardless of condition or size, it's difficult finding a house in Hyde Park for under $300,000.

An average Sold listing at the time of this writing (July 2008) was a 1928-built three bedroom, two-and-a-half bath house with a two car garage and 1,900 square feet, for $545,000. That's $286.00 per square foot.

What's close to Hyde Park? (Dining, shopping, entertainment, athletics)

Hyde Park is one of the few neighborhoods in Austin where one truly does not need a car. Neighborhood grocery store Fresh Plus has all the essentials (and many of the non-essentials) and nearby Hancock Center is home to a giant H.E.B. grocery store as well as a Jason's Deli, Old Navy, Pet Smart, and a number of other shops and restaurants.

Some terrific restaurants call Hyde Park home, including the all-American Hyde Park Bar & Grill and mouthwatering Italian Trattoria, Asti. (Try the calamari!) The best wines are as close as the wine bar, Vino Vino, on GuadaSupe. Throw in Dolce Vita for desserts and Quack's for coffee and pastries, and you've got all the food groups covered, and then some.

Of course, being so close to downtown, all the best parts of Austin are nearby and readily accessible. Nothing is far away.

What about the schools in Hyde Park?

Children of Hyde Park residents are served by Austin Independent School District schools: Lee Elementary, Kealing Middle School, and McCallum High School. In 2007 Texas Education Agency ratings, both Kealing Middle School and McCallum High School met required standards and earned “Academically Acceptable” standing. Lee Elementary exceeded standards, receiving “Recognized” standing.