Barton Hills is one of the greenest neighborhoods I show buyers in Austin — it’s in the 78704 zip code, and Zilker Park’s 351 acres sit right at its north end, with several greenbelt entrances giving direct access to the Barton Creek Greenbelt trail system. Homes here range from 1940s originals to architect-designed modern builds tucked into the hillsides.
I’m Robbie English, a broker with Uncommon Realty here in Austin.
Living in Barton Hills
Barton Hills is bounded by South Lamar and Zilker to the east, Barton Springs Road and Zilker Park to the north, Barton Creek and Spyglass-Barton’s Bluff to the west, and the Capital of Texas Highway to the south. Between the greenbelt trails, Barton Springs Pool, and Lady Bird Lake all within walking or biking distance, it’s the kind of neighborhood where you can be outside every day without getting in the car.
Schools
Barton Hills is in Austin ISD, with kids zoned to Barton Hills Elementary or Zilker Elementary depending on the address, then O. Henry Middle School and Austin High School. Barton Hills Elementary leans into the neighborhood’s green space with environmental and science-focused programming.
Housing options
The neighborhood is primarily residential, with some of the oldest homes dating back to the 1940s alongside architect-designed modern builds that make the most of the hillside lots and treetop views. Because it backs up to Zilker Park and the greenbelt, homes here tend to carry a premium over similar square footage further from the water and trails — that access is really what you’re paying for.
If you’re weighing Barton Hills against nearby options, I’d point you toward Zilker itself for a similar outdoors-first feel, or South Lamar if you want more walkable restaurants and shops without paying the same premium for lot size.
