Greater Austin Communities Guide: Discover Rollingwood's Charm
Nestled between Austin and West Lake, Rollingwood epitomizes small-town charm with luxurious living. Established in 1955, this small yet vibrant community offers a quaint feel while being in close proximity to Austin’s bustling city life. Rollingwood combines the beauty of the Texas Hill Country with the convenience of urban living. A self-sufficient city, it boasts its own city services, including firefighters, police, and a government body, all dedicated to maintaining the area's top-tier quality of life.
Home to approximately 1,500 residents, Rollingwood is known for its tight-knit community spirit and active neighborhood involvement. Mature landscaping and large shaded lots provide a picturesque setting for the roughly 450 single-family homes, which were primarily built between the 1960s and the 1980s. The homes vary in size and style, ranging from about 1,500 to 7,000 square feet and typically sell for between $400,000 and $1.5 million.
Residents of Rollingwood enjoy access to exemplary schools, making it a sought-after location for families. The blend of stunning homes, natural surroundings, and a strong sense of community makes Rollingwood a desirable place to live.
History and Development
Rollingwood, an affluent suburb near Austin, was founded in 1955 by George B. Hatley. Initially developed to provide a tranquil living environment, it quickly became a residential haven.
The community incorporated as its own city in May 1963, adopting a mayor-council form of government. One of its first mayors was Frank L. Scofield. At the commencement of its community governance, Rollingwood's City Council operated for three years without any bookkeeping.
Key Milestones:
1955: Establishment and development by George B. Hatley.
1963: Incorporation as a municipality.
1960 Population: 390 residents.
1970 Population: 780 residents.
At its inception, the Village of Rollingwood had only 28 homes. The city aimed to maintain a peaceful environment while fostering community growth. Despite its small beginnings, it has grown significantly, now boasting over 1,500 residents.
Rollingwood is strategically positioned on the west bank of Lady Bird Lake. It is situated between the City of West Lake Hills and the City of Austin. The location, adjacent to Zilker Park, contributes to its appeal.
Today, the community is characterized by a blend of historical charm and modern amenities, making it a sought-after residential area. Frequent festivals and green spaces add to the quality of life in Rollingwood, embodying a perfect balance between tranquility and access to urban amenities.
Demographics and Population Data
Rollingwood, located near Austin, Texas, is a vibrant community with a diverse demographic profile. This section addresses the city's population trends, household characteristics, and workforce composition.
Population Density and Growth
Rollingwood has seen steady population growth over recent years. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population was approximately 1,397 people in 2021, an increase from 1,331 in 2020. This represents a growth rate of 4.96%.
Population density stands at approximately 2,001.6 people per square mile. This reflects a tight-knit community with ample interaction among residents. Insights from 2019 also indicated a 5.44% increase in population over a five-year period from 2014 to 2019, showing consistent growth in the area.
Household Demographics
Households in Rollingwood exhibit distinct characteristics. With a median household income of $207,969 in 2021, the community demonstrates considerable affluence. This is an increase from $193,750 in 2020, marking a 7.34% rise.
The average household size tends to be modest, aligning with national trends in similar suburban areas. Data reveals that the city has a balanced gender ratio and a variety of household compositions. The residents enjoy a high quality of living, reflected in their income levels and housing conditions.
Education Level and Employment
Rollingwood's workforce is varied, with a mix of blue- and white-collar workers. Many residents hold advanced degrees, contributing to a well-educated population. Employment opportunities are varied, drawing from both the local economy and the nearby urban centers like Austin.
Notable employment sectors include technology, education, healthcare, and finance. Individual income levels are generally high, correlating with the overall prosperity and educational attainment of the population. This section highlights how Rollingwood's residents benefit from a robust local economy and proximity to major employment hubs.
Government and Municipal Services
Rollingwood offers a range of government and municipal services that ensure the community runs smoothly and safely. City governance includes key administrative roles, while public safety is maintained through dedicated police and fire services. Residents can also participate in various community events and associations.
City Governance
The governance structure of Rollingwood features a Mayor and a City Council. The Mayor acts as the executive leader, overseeing various city operations and initiatives. The City Council, composed of elected members, supports legislative functions and policy-making.
City Hall, located at 403 Nixon Drive, serves as the administrative hub. This center handles everything from planning and zoning to utilities and public services. Engagement with residents is facilitated through regular council meetings, where citizens can voice their concerns and participate in the decision-making process.
Public Safety
Rollingwood prioritizes public safety through its dedicated police and fire departments. The Rollingwood Police Department offers round-the-clock service, ensuring community security and law enforcement. Officers conduct patrols, community outreach, and respond to emergencies efficiently.
The fire services are equally robust, focusing on fire prevention, emergency response, and safety education. Regular drills and community awareness programs are conducted to keep residents informed about safety protocols. These services collectively create a secure environment for all Rollingwood residents.
Community Events and Associations
Rollingwood encourages a close-knit community through various events and associations. The Neighborhood Association plays a pivotal role in organizing events such as seasonal festivals, holiday parades, and community clean-ups. These activities foster a sense of community and belonging among residents.
City-sponsored events in Zilker Park further enrich the community experience, offering a space for recreation and social interaction. Participation in these events is high, reflecting the active engagement of Rollingwood residents in communal life.
Geography and Location
Rollingwood, a luxurious neighborhood founded in 1955 by George B. Hatley, is strategically positioned between Austin and West Lake Hills.
Situated in Travis County, this small community covers over 600 acres. Its location offers proximity to some of Austin's top amenities, including a short 10-minute drive to downtown Austin and 15 minutes to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.
Rollingwood is bordered by the cities of West Lake Hills to the west and Bee Cave to the southwest. This unique placement provides residents easy access to major roads such as Mopac Expressway, facilitating smooth travel throughout the greater Austin area.
Key Locations:
Downtown Austin: 10 minutes away
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport: 15 minutes away
West Lake Hills: Adjacent
Bee Cave: Nearby to the southwest
Despite its small size with roughly 1,500 residents, Rollingwood maintains a self-sufficient government, complete with its own police, firefighting, and public services. This ensures a well-managed and secure environment for its residents, distinguishing it from other neighborhoods.
Education System
Rollingwood's education system is one of its standout features, known for its strong community ties and highly rated schools. The area falls within the Eanes Independent School District, which offers a robust curriculum and exceptional extracurricular activities.
Local Schools
Rollingwood is home to several esteemed schools, all falling under the Eanes Independent School District. Key institutions include Eanes Elementary, Hill Country Middle School, and Westlake High School. These schools are known for their rigorous academic programs and active community involvement.
Eanes Elementary School provides a nurturing environment for young learners. It emphasizes foundational skills in reading, writing, and mathematics, along with a strong arts program. The school's facilities include well-equipped classrooms, a library, and outdoor play areas.
Hill Country Middle School offers a transitional experience between elementary and high school. It caters to grades 6-8 and features comprehensive programs in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Extracurricular options such as music, sports, and clubs are abundant, helping to develop well-rounded students.
Westlake High School is renowned for its academic excellence and competitive athletics. It regularly ranks among the top high schools in Texas. Westlake High offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses, fine arts programs, and a variety of sports teams, creating a dynamic and challenging environment for students.
Eanes Independent School District
The Eanes Independent School District (Eanes ISD) operates the public schools in Rollingwood and surrounding areas. It is celebrated for its high education level, strong teacher-student ratios, and well-rounded curriculum.
The district boasts a variety of programs aimed at fostering academic excellence and personal growth. Eanes ISD schools consistently perform well in state assessments, and many students go on to attend top universities.
Eanes ISD also offers specialized programs for gifted and talented students, special education services, and extensive extracurricular activities. The district's commitment to maintaining small class sizes ensures personalized attention for each student, contributing significantly to the overall success of its educational outcomes.
Recreation and Outdoor Activities
Rollingwood offers numerous opportunities for outdoor enjoyment, from expansive parks and scenic trails to top-notch sports and fitness facilities.
Parks and Green Space
Rollingwood boasts several parks and green areas, providing ample space for outdoor activities. Rollingwood Park is a notable feature, offering playgrounds, swings, and a community garden. The park's pavilion, which includes picnic tables and accommodates up to 20 people, can be reserved for gatherings.
Located near Rollingwood, Zilker Park is a sprawling green space known for hosting festivals and concerts. Barton Creek Greenbelt and Zilker Nature Preserve offer lush trails perfect for hiking and enjoying nature. These areas are prime spots for anyone looking to escape the urban hustle.
Lake Austin and Town Lake provide additional recreational spots. Boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular activities on these lakes. The parks and green spaces in and around Rollingwood are designed for relaxation and community gatherings.
Sports and Fitness Facilities
Rollingwood is home to several high-quality sports and fitness facilities. Western Hills Athletic Club, also known as Rollingwood Park, is a private club offering a range of outdoor recreation activities. It features tennis courts, a swimming pool, and baseball fields.
Barton Springs in neighboring Zilker Park provides a natural swimming area loved by locals. The area includes sand volleyball courts and spacious areas for other sports.
Residents can also take advantage of nearby golf courses, providing a luxurious way to enjoy Texas greens. Fitness enthusiasts will find a variety of options to stay active, from jogging trails to fitness clubs that cater to varying levels of physical activity.
Lifestyle and Amenities
Living in Rollingwood offers access to diverse dining options, a variety of shopping outlets, and a rich cultural scene. The area provides a well-rounded lifestyle for its residents.
Dining and Restaurants
Rollingwood boasts an array of dining choices catering to diverse tastes. Popular spots include Pizza Nizza for its artisanal pizzas and family-friendly atmosphere. Bistro 88 offers a fusion of Asian and Western cuisines in a more upscale setting. For coffee lovers, Trianon The Coffee Place serves a selection of locally roasted brews.
With close proximity to Austin, residents also have easy access to numerous highly-rated restaurants just a short drive away. Dining options extend from casual eateries to fine dining, ensuring there is something for everyone.
Shopping and Retail
Shopping in Rollingwood is convenient with a mix of local boutiques and larger retail chains. Residents can find unique items at specialty stores or shop for everyday needs at nearby retail centers. The neighborhood's retail scene includes stores that offer everything from fashionable apparel to home goods.
For more extensive shopping trips, the Barton Creek Square Mall and the Shops at Westlake are easily accessible. These larger centers house a variety of well-known brands, providing ample choices for all shopping preferences.
Arts and Entertainment
Rollingwood is closely situated to Austin's vibrant arts and entertainment scene. Residents enjoy easy access to Zilker Park, known for its festivals and outdoor concerts. The natural beauty of Lady Bird Lake also provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and paddleboarding.
Cultural enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to downtown Austin, where theaters, galleries, and live music venues are plentiful. The location makes it easy for those in Rollingwood to stay engaged with a variety of entertainment options.
Real Estate and Housing
Rollingwood, a neighborhood in West Austin, boasts a diverse collection of homes. The housing market features approximately 450 single-family homes. Most of these were built between the 1960s and 1980s, although some new construction can also be found.
Home prices in Rollingwood vary widely. Properties range from around $400,000 to more than $1.5 million. Homes can be as small as 1,500 square feet or as large as 7,000 square feet.
The community is known for its large, shaded lots. Many homes have mature trees, adding to the neighborhood’s charm. This makes Rollingwood particularly appealing to families and outdoor enthusiasts.
One of Rollingwood’s significant advantages is its location within the Eanes School District. This exemplary school district is a major draw for families looking to buy homes. Access to quality education adds considerable value to the properties.
For those interested in luxurious living, Rollingwood offers many high-end options. Larger, custom-built estates can exceed 10,000 square feet of living space. There are also opportunities for new construction, with vacant lots starting around $750,000.
The combination of mature landscaping, quality schools, and a strong community feel makes Rollingwood an attractive place to live. Whether buying or selling, the neighborhood’s real estate market presents a range of opportunities.
Transportation and Accessibility
Rollingwood is strategically located near downtown Austin, making it a convenient choice for residents.
Bee Cave Road is a major artery running through Rollingwood, providing easy access to various local amenities and businesses.
Mopac (Loop 1) is another significant route, offering straightforward connections to many parts of the Austin metropolitan area.
Public Transportation
Though Rollingwood itself does not have extensive public transportation options, it’s well-served by the overall Greater Austin transit system. Residents can access nearby Capital Metro routes that connect to major locations across Austin, providing an efficient alternative to driving.
Accessibility Features
Rollingwood emphasizes pedestrian-friendly layouts and the community is keen on maintaining accessible pathways. The close proximity to Zilker Park enhances its appeal for those who enjoy outdoor activities and easy access to green spaces.
Senior and Specialized Transportation
For senior residents, there are tailored services such as the Senior Ride Guide provided by the local community services. These programs ensure senior citizens have safe and reliable transport options for daily commutes and essential travel needs.
In essence, Rollingwood's connectivity via strategically important roads and its proximity to downtown Austin ensures residents enjoy seamless transportation and accessibility options.
