Your Guide to Top-Rated Education in Central Texas
Choosing the right school district is one of the most important factors when buying a home in the Austin area. Central Texas is blessed with numerous outstanding school districts that consistently rank among the best in the state of Texas, each offering unique strengths in academics, athletics, fine arts, and community involvement. From the nationally recognized Eanes ISD serving the Westlake Hills and Bee Cave communities to the rapidly growing Leander ISD in Cedar Park and Leander, the high-performing Round Rock ISD serving Round Rock and parts of Austin, and the beloved Dripping Springs ISD in the Hill Country — families have exceptional options across the region. This comprehensive guide breaks down the top school districts in the greater Austin area, covering academic performance, extracurricular offerings, community culture, and the real estate markets within each district's boundaries to help you make the best decision for your family.
Consistently ranked #1 or #2 in the Austin metro, Eanes ISD serves the affluent communities of Westlake Hills, Rollingwood, and portions of Bee Cave. Westlake High School is renowned for academic excellence, championship football, and producing notable alumni. The district maintains small class sizes, advanced STEM programs, and exceptional fine arts. Homes in Eanes ISD typically range from $700K to several million, reflecting the premium families place on this district.
Lake Travis ISD has risen to become one of the top-performing large districts in Texas, serving Lakeway, portions of Bee Cave, and surrounding Hill Country communities. Lake Travis High School excels in academics, athletics (multiple state football championships), and performing arts. The district offers strong STEM programs, dual-credit opportunities, and a supportive community culture. Homes range from the $400Ks to multi-million dollar lakefront estates.
One of the fastest-growing districts in Texas, Leander ISD serves Cedar Park, Leander, and portions of northwest Austin. Despite rapid growth, the district maintains excellent academic standards, with multiple schools earning TEA distinctions. The district is known for strong athletics, robotics programs, and fine arts. Homes in LISD range from the $300Ks in Leander to $600K+ in Cedar Park's established neighborhoods.
Round Rock ISD is one of the largest and highest-rated districts in Central Texas, serving Round Rock, portions of north Austin, and surrounding communities. The district offers comprehensive programs including award-winning STEM academies, strong athletics, and career and technical education pathways. With homes ranging from the $300Ks to $700K+, RRISD offers excellent value for families seeking top-tier education.
A smaller, community-focused district that punches well above its weight, Dripping Springs ISD is known for academic excellence, championship athletics, and a tight-knit community where parents are deeply involved. The Hill Country setting, combined with outstanding schools, makes Dripping Springs one of the most desirable school districts for families willing to commute slightly farther from Austin's core. Homes range from the $400Ks to $1M+.
Work with Mike Cusimano for personalized advice tailored to your situation.