Moving to Taylor, TX in 2023: A Guide to Austin’s Small-Town Neighborhood

, Aug 9, 2023

Located just 35 minutes from downtown Austin, the small town of Taylor, Texas, offers an attractive living experience with its blend of charm and affordability. Home to a vibrant community with plenty of recreational activities and roots in history, this town is very inviting for those looking for that perfect place to call home. With close proximity to both rural tranquility and access to bustling cities like Austin, moving your family here is worth considering!

Short Summary

Taylor, TX is an attractive Austin suburb with a small-town atmosphere and easy access to amenities.
It offers an affordable median home price, property tax rebates, and rental assistance for all income levels.
Local transportation options are available for commuting to the nearby city of Austin or accessing local attractions in Taylor.

Discovering Taylor, TX

Taylor, TX (otherwise known as Taylor Texas) is situated in the Williamson County area and is a desirable Austin suburb that can be reached within 20 minutes from IH 35 and just over half an hour’s drive to Downtown Austin or ABIA. With its population of about 18 thousand residents, this small-town community boasts alluring features such as affordable living, vibrant culture & history, which makes it so appealing for people wanting to call Taylor home. The town provides easy access to some of the best opportunities offered by Austin city while still maintaining its unique charm characterized by friendly locals.

History and Growth

Taylor’s roots go all the way back to when lots were auctioned off for the International-Great Northern Railroad, and a railway official gave it his name. This draw has made Taylor one of Austin’s most sought-after suburbs over time. Recently, this popularity is reflected in Castlewood—a community of single-family homes erected by Dream Finders Homes.

To sustain its rapid growth as well as keep true to preserving its natural splendor with parkland and open spaces, Taylor created The Downtown Master Plan, which was granted an APA Project Planning Award in 2015 making it attractive not only among families but also to businesses alike who desire success within city boundaries.

Small Town Charm

Taylor, an Austin suburb situated in Texas, is renowned for its alluring atmosphere and wide selection of community events. Its downtown area hosts a range of restaurants, stores, specialty retailers, and music venues- among them being the famous Louie Mueller’s Barbecue restaurant with some of the finest barbecue anywhere in Texas. While Taylor has maintained its small-town appeal by avoiding having Interstate 35 run directly across it (thereby preserving affordability as well as open spaces), this hasn’t impacted their connection to nearby city amenities which still exist within reach. Because they have managed to keep hold of these features along with creating such an inviting place that can draw both young professionals looking for something more relaxed yet connected plus families alike. Taylor stands out from other suburbs around Austin making it quite attractive indeed!

Housing and Affordability in Taylor, TX

In June 2023, Taylor offers an attractive combination of cost-effectiveness and quality lifestyle due to its median listing home price of $370K and a more affordable average house value than other cities in the Austin metropolitan area. The city has also maintained a lower cost of living 7% below that across the nation. These factors make it ideal for those seeking economical options with equal availability to amenities as well as convenience enjoyed by big cities like Austin without having to overextend their budget.

Best Neighborhoods in Taylor

The Grove at Bull Creek | Doak | Mallard Park | North Park

Home Prices

The median home price in Taylor, TX is notably lower than the national average due to a more cost-effective cost of living and property tax rate. This affordability has made it an appealing choice for individuals looking for an alternative to the increasingly expensive Austin housing market.

It should also be noted that neighborhoods with well-known public schools tend to have higher house costs because many people prioritize access to high-quality education when making their selections. While properties may come at a reasonable fee here in Taylor, families are still provided excellent educational opportunities which makes this city a sound investment opportunity overall!

Property Tax Rebates and Rental Assistance

Taylor offers its residents attractive financial incentives to make their housing options more accessible. The median household income is well within an affordable range, and the city provides additional exemptions for seniors over 65 years of age with a minimum $3,000 homestead exemption from local taxing units or up to $10,000 residence homestead exemption given by school districts. There are rental assistance programs provided through Taylor Housing Authority that offer vouchers and public housing services for low-income families and individuals alike. All these opportunities help ensure all citizens in Taylor can find suitable homes at reduced costs – thereby providing better living conditions across income levels in the area.

Education and Schools in Taylor, TX

When making a decision on where to live, education plays an important role for families. Taylor provides excellent educational options with the six schools in its Independent School District- including Taylor High and Legacy Early College High offering diverse curriculums as well as resources to students. Evaluation ratings from Niche demonstrate that both elementary, middle, and high school programs are adequate here. This attracts people due to the perpetually rising prices of homes near high-quality public institutions. Thus putting living in Taylor at a value price wise too!

Taylor ISD

Taylor Independent School District (Taylor ISD) stands out among the rest, ranking within the top 10% of school districts across America. It has a wide range of academic programs available to its students. Including Advanced Placement courses, dual credit opportunities, and career-focused classes, giving them access to vital resources and paths for success.

Taylor is passionate about providing all its pupils with an environment that supports both their well-being as individuals as well as allowing room for personal growth – making it a desirable choice when considering relocating in or around the Taylor area.

High Schools in Taylor

Students in Taylor have the opportunity to attend either Taylor High School or Legacy Early College, both part of the school district and providing access to college-level courses. From Dual Enrollment classes to AP options plus TSTC programs, these schools ensure students are prepared for their high school diploma as well as any future educational endeavors. There is an extensive extracurricular selection on offer which includes over thirty activities. This enables pupils at these establishments to not only express themselves but also broaden their skills while interacting with other learners.

Recreation and Activities in Taylor, TX

Residents of Taylor can experience a range of activities and attractions all over the small town, always offering something to keep everyone busy. There are plenty of green spaces in parks that provide calming environments, as well as sports complexes with active facilities for people who want to exercise or compete. Local festivals and events give residents an opportunity for entertainment within their community too.

Taylor has become a popular place among its citizens due to the amenities available around it – no matter your preference. There is never a shortage of fun things to do in this inviting neighborhood!

Parks and Green Spaces

Taylor City offers its residents access to many parks and open spaces, providing a wealth of opportunities for outdoor activities. Such places include Bull Branch Park, Murphy Park, Berry Springs Park and Preserve, Heritage Square City Park, Fannie Robinson Park, Pfluger Park, Doak Park, and Taylor’s own namesake part. All these offer amenities such as public pools, areas with botanical gardens, tennis courts along fishing piers, and covered pavilions too.

Being set in the beautiful landscape near Lake Granger has allowed Taylor to maintain an active commitment to preserving natural beauty while simultaneously offering recreational possibilities for locals who enjoy having easy access to parkland and other types of leisure venues. Families that are looking forward to finding peace surrounded by nature or more exciting playground games can find them both in one place. The city parks from Tayor!

Sports Complexes

Taylor boasts an array of exciting recreational sports and activities for the athletic enthusiast. The Parks and Recreation Department operates Taylor Regional Park & Sports Complex, which provides 22 fields to play on, a pool with two accompanying splash pads as well as four pavilions available for rental. There is also a community center located here along with one skate park. Those residing in Taylor can take advantage of other sporting facilities such as golf courses, tennis courts, or disc golf courses- so there is no shortage of options when it comes to being active!

Local Festivals and Events

Taylor is a vibrant city, offering its residents and their families an array of festivities throughout the year. These events allow community members to bond with each other while honoring Taylor’s unique culture. Examples include Blackland Prairie Days, Heritage Square Farmer’s Market, Main Street Car Show as well as yearly staples such as Taylor Swirl and Main Street Christmas Fair. They host multiple community gatherings every month on Third Thursday, which strengthens even more. The feeling of togetherness in this town already provides so many joyous memories through all these activities.

Business and Employment Opportunities in Taylor, TX

Taylor is an inviting city to live in and work in due to the variety of professional opportunities it presents. It’s a hub for different retail, industrial companies, and non-profit establishments as well as flourishing manufacturing outlets that draw businesses from other areas like Austin into its market.

This growth has seen Taylor become one ideal location for young professionals or families that want job stability within commuting distance from their homes.

Major Employers

Taylor, Texas is home to many big corporations that supply work for locals. These include the Electric Reliability Council of Taylor (ERCOT), the school district, and Durcon Laboratory Tops, who each offer a wide variety of job prospects helping to keep the city prosperous.

In November 2021, it was announced by Samsung that there are plans in motion for a $17 billion chip manufacturing plant that will strengthen economic growth and give more employment chances to those living within this community. Because of these major companies and their thriving entrepreneurial spirit, Taylor seems like an ideal place if you’re looking for stable career options with great diversity available too!

Economic Incentives

The City of Taylor is committed to fostering growth and development by offering various economic incentives, such as land grants, cash grants, forgivable loans, and property tax rebates. To add encouragement for businesses looking to set up in the area or expand an existing business, there are also sales tax breaks available through Downtown rental assistance programs. This package has recently been reinforced with a new wave of state-backed financial support which underlines Taylor’s position at the center of commerce throughout the city.

Transportation and Accessibility in Taylor, TX

Taylor is an ideal place to live, being so close and accessible to the city of Austin. Many transportation options are available for Taylor residents, allowing them easy access to the metropolis whether it be for leisure or work. This community has been made car-dependent over time, but there are still public transportation possibilities that provide convenience in traveling out of town if necessary. Living here benefits those who desire a connection with all Austin offers while also remaining comfortably within their own small locality – something which can’t always be found elsewhere!

Commuting to Austin

Residents of Taylor have the option to take a car, taxi, or train to reach Austin in approximately 40 minutes. Amtrak provides direct transportation that runs once each day and takes 46 minutes – although during rush hour traffic times, it’s best for people to factor extra time into their plans. As well as this convenient travel connection, there are also bus services providing locals with various ways they can access all that the city has on offer.

Local Transportation

In Taylor, the residents have various means of transportation available to them. CARTS bus services offer convenience with their on-demand rides and quick response time. While Amtrak is an excellent option for traveling Distances. There are shuttle solutions from Big Bus SuperShuttle in Austin as well as Star Shuttle & Charter offering charter trips that meet group requirements. This selection of options gives the local community access to resources both within Taylor itself and also beyond into nearby metropolitan areas like Austin city proper thus granting everyone all they need without having to rely solely on automobiles or personal vehicles around town.

Summary

Taylor, TX provides a distinctive combination of a cozy small-town feel combined with affordability and easy access to the vibrant city of Austin. This charming Texas town has an interesting past, generous citizens who create a welcoming atmosphere for all its residents, countless recreational activities that promise plenty of enjoyment as well as numerous economic options along with top quality educational centers, everything an individual or family may need in one spot! So why not join this community filled with vibrancy and quaintness? Taylor is where you ought to be if what you seek are these particular benefits only available in this special location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average commute time from Taylor to Austin?

On average, it takes 40 minutes to get from Taylor to Austin if you’re traveling by car, taxi or train.

What are some of the major employers in Taylor, TX?

Taylor, Texas is the location of key organizations such as the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), Taylor ISD, and Durcon Laboratory Tops. It serves a vital role in providing employment opportunities to local residents with its range of companies operating within this city.

Are there any financial incentives available for homeowners and renters in Taylor?

Taylor provides several financial incentives such as senior property tax exemptions and rental assistance programs to make housing more accessible. These measures are meant to lighten the burden of renting or owning a home, making it easier for people to stay in their homes and apartments. Taylor has additional support available, like grants that help pay living expenses, which can include rent payments until income is reestablished during times of need.

What recreational facilities and activities are available in Taylor?

The residents of Taylor have plenty of opportunities to stay active and involved in their community. From parks, sports complexes, and various festivals they can attend, there are an array of recreational activities for everyone!

These facilities are great ways to meet new people or form friendships with your neighbors while enjoying all the exciting events that take place around town. Plus it’s a wonderful opportunity for bonding together as part of one big supportive family living within this city limits.

How does Taylor’s cost of living compare to the national average?

Overall, Taylor’s cost of living is significantly lower than the national average, coming in at 7% below the national figure.

Categories City Guides Relocation Guides

About the Author

Last updated: 08/18/2023

2300+ Client reviews!

Ryan Goodbary

I had the pleasure of working with Vicki Duran and I couldn’t be happier with the experience. From the very beginning, Vicki demonstrated deep knowledge of the market and a genuine commitment to understanding my needs. Her communication was exceptional – always prompt, clear, and informative. Throughout the process, Vicki went above and beyond, negotiating on my behalf, explaining the process/each step along the way, and ensuring every detail was taken care of. Her professionalism, dedication, and personalized approach was exceptional. She truly cared and I felt like I was working with a close family friend (having never met her before the process began). I can’t emphasis enough how seamless she made the process for me. People have the perception that buying a house is an extremely stressful process. My experience could not have been farther from the truth. I joked with her at times how smooth/easy buying a house was, all because of Vicki!

I could not have asked for a better agent. I’ve already referred a few friends to Vicki and will continue to do so in the future. Thanks again, Vicki!

Brad Henry

Blessed to have connected with Kristen! I can’t say enough great things about Kristen. Her professionalism, market knowledge, and communication were beyond compare. She was incredibly patient throughout our home search. We looked at a countless amount of homes (we are very picky), and never once felt she was trying to push us in to something that wasn’t the right fit for the sake of a sale. We always felt she had our best interest in mind. Couldn’t recommend her more!!!

Taylor Constantine

Sally was referred to me via a business network when I first moved to Austin in 2022. She helped me understand the area, evaluate my options, and find the perfect spot in a tough market. Sally has been a joy to work with because she creates partnerships + friendships with her clients!

Scott

I was impressed by Sally’s expertise in selling both my investment property and my primary residence, and in helping us buy our dream home. At our initial meeting, we found Sally knew the real estate market, but found even more impressive her emotional quotient in understanding and navigating the differences between my partner’s and my very different personalities. For my investment property, she timed the showings and sale perfectly and created a helpful Excel spreadsheet comparing the many offers. She was also savvy enough to suggest we pay the tenants a fair amount of money to make the property available for viewing from 9am – 5pm on the first weekend to make it as easy as possible for potential buyers to get through, and we let her deal directly with the tenants because we could tell her people skills would serve us well

We got multiple offers by the deadline on Monday afternoon with one outlier that was $150K higher than what we had unsuccessfully listed the property for (with a different realtor) a year earlier!

When it came to selling my primary home, Sally’s expertise in the luxury market, and in historic homes in particular, truly shone. She understood that selling a high-end property, with various restrictions, required a different approach. Sally crafted a listing for the home that perfectly captured its unique character and premier location. Her marketing strategy was well timed and appropriate for the more limited market, attracting the right buyer pool and creating a sense of exclusivity around the property. She suggested listing it on the private market for a week or two before sending a message that it would be listed on the MLS. She organized private showings that allowed buyers to experience the warmth and charm of the home and the neighborhood, which I believe was instrumental in securing a sale.

The pricing and marketing strategy Sally recommended was spot-on, and we sold the home at a price that far exceeded our expectations. Sally helped thread the needle perfectly.

Sally is also accessible. We found more well-known realtors would respond to our email days later, whereas she was always available right away to answer my questions, and provided us with regular updates, making sure every detail was handled with care. Selling a high-end property can be a stressful experience with fewer potential buyers and some downtime inherent in waiting for the right buyer, but Sally made it a smooth and surprisingly easy process encouraging us to be patient while giving us enough information on what was happening to satisfy both me and my partner. In the end, we were thrilled with the results

Sally’s rep of us as sellers could not have been more professional, but her work repping us as buyers is the most memorable. We were trying to be our dream home in an overheated market, and Sally gave us advice that at each turn proved invaluable. She recommended offering just the right amount above the offer price for us to make it to the next round of offers. She handled a very difficult appraisal process by advising us on financing sources, even offering to help us put down a higher amount by loaning us money herself! We were able to finance the home without taking her up on that offer, but how many realtors make that kind of offer to their clients? In the end, we closed on the house ontime and ended up with the home of our dreams, thanks to Sally’s world-class advice and service.

We cannot say enough good things about Sally’s technical knowledge, people skills, and responsiveness. You won’t find a better realtor in Austin.

lucille wood

I have lived here in Austin for more twenty-five years, and have bought and sold several homes and rented others during those years. I have worked with five realtors during that time. SALLY IS BY FAR THE BEST OF ANY IN TOWN. Her work ethic is simply unmatched. She hides her competitive streak underneath a layer of Austin hip and friendly, but she will absolutely get you the best home, the best deal, and stop at NOTHING to get your home sold as well!

Sally loves real estate. She has a genuine passion for Austin, too, and for her client’s well-being. She took time to understand my needs and was always available to answer any questions and provide me with honest and insightful advice.

We toured many homes in Barton Hills and settled on a great home that was hotly contested by builders and homeowners. Sally understood how we could be the preferred buyer without getting into a bidding war. She knew the motivations of the Seller and we maneuvered and negotiated the contract and secured my dream home.

Furthermore, at the 11th hour, the day before we were set to close, our lender said we needed to put a fence around the pool before they would release the funds. The seller was not inclined to extend the closing again. We were out of town. Sally saved the day by racing to Home Depot and getting the largest tarpaulin available and then securing it over the pool at the house. Sent pics to the lender and we were set to close.

In short, Sally will work harder and smarter than anyone. She’s simply the best.

Daniel Carroll

Sally is incredible! She spent nearly 2 years with us – understanding our very specific preferences and needs – to help us find our dream home. She was the first agent to reach out when the home was listed and negotiated the contract astutely so that we secured the home. The home was only in the framed stage, still had a few months until completion. Once it was completed, however, our plans had changed and we needed to get out of the contract. We were expecting to have to relinquish our very considerable deposit. But Sally spent the entire weekend working on a way to get us out of the contract AND get our deposit back. Everyone we have spoken to about this extraordinary outcome has been surprised that Sally managed to get our deposit back for us. Thank you Sally, we can’t recommend her highly enough.

Amit Melwani

Sally is reliable, diligent in her research, prompt on exchanges, creative in deal making, and has a tremendous work ethic. She is the sole reason we were able to close on our primary residence, which has been our dream home and a fantastic investment. From there, we’ve gone on to close on multiple rental property purchases in Austin together. Thanks to her astute analysis, we’ve passed on many deals as well, which has proven just as valuable. I cannot recommend her highly enough.

Dom Chapman

I highly recommend Kiel if you’re looking to rent a place in Austin. We originally met him to look around a particular unit, and when it was not to our satisfaction, he was able to quickly take us around many more units that day. He also set up a whole day of viewings for the very next day! Within 48 hours we had done enough viewings to be confident in choosing a new home. The landlord accepted our offer and Kiel handled all of the paperwork, even stopping by our hotel to pick up the needed checks. We couldn’t be happier.

Kiel is highly organized and unlike some realtors in the Austin area, he is responsive and ready to move quickly. We were always able to contact him and never left waiting.

Caroline Hunt Rizzo

Kiel has your BACK!! We are so grateful to have had his guidance and knowledge while navigating the intense, frustrating and way competitive Austin rental market. He quickly picked up on our taste and designed a game plan to help us push through the clutter and get to the properties that best suited us. He was ALWAYS available to us and answered our emails, calls and texts with great speed. We’re so grateful to have had him on our search team. Because my goodness, it really is a crazy market out there!

rkcroissant

Kiel was amazing to work with! He walked us through everything, explained anything we didn’t understand, and he is is just a great guy to work with. As a first time home buyer, his knowledge was invaluable. 10/10 would recommend!

shawn1reilly

Kiel was referred to me by a friend, and we were so pleased with his services. He jumped in and guided us through the entire process, made himself readily available for us during the whole process, checked in with us via text every step of the way, and provided any and all information we requested. As a first time home buyer, I was not totally familiar with the process. Kiel helped me through the lending process, walk through inspection and closing procedures. It was such a pleasure to work with him, and we look forward to hiring him again when we purchase our next property.

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I’ve never met anyone as knowledgeable and hard working as Kiel. Everything he said he was going to do, he did it. Kiel is a very easy person to get along with. He made us comfortable with the process and also made it fun. In 5 words…HE GETS THE JOB DONE!

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