Summary
Steiner Ranch is a community in northwest Austin developed by Taylor Woodrow. Spanning 4,600 acres, it borders two lakes, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a resort rather than a traditional neighborhood.
The Location
Traveling to downtown Austin from Steiner Ranch typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This community sits between Lake Travis and Lake Austin, with its main entrance off RR 620 at Quinlan Park Road. Close to the Mansfield Dam and Lakeway, Steiner Ranch offers incredible outdoor amenities that make it a desirable place to live, despite the drive to central Austin being longer during peak traffic hours.
Transportation
Within Steiner Ranch, residents might find themselves within walking distance to community areas like swimming pools or hiking trails. However, given the size of the community, having a car is essential for getting around. The Capital Metro Route 122 serves the area with stops near the Four Points shopping center and 3M offices. While this provides some public transportation, a car remains the most reliable option for navigating Austin.
The People of Steiner Ranch
Steiner Ranch attracts individuals who enjoy outdoor pursuits such as golfing, boating, swimming, biking, and fishing. This upscale community is known for its safety and amenities, making it an excellent environment for raising families. Approximately half of the residents have children, with a median age of 36.7 years and a median household income of $280,000. Notably, most residents over the age of 25 hold a college degree. As of 2017, the population was around 15,000.
Outdoor Activities
Residents of Steiner Ranch have access to numerous outdoor amenities, including community parks, two recreation centers with swimming pools, tennis courts, and basketball courts. A private club on Lake Austin provides 11 day docks for homeowners. The community also features an 800-acre nature preserve with 12 miles of trails. With 19 marinas, 15 public parks, and 10 golf courses in the vicinity, outdoor enthusiasts find plenty to explore.
The University of Texas golf club, a remarkable facility covering 275 acres, offers a championship course measuring 7,225 yards.
Devil’s Cove
Devil’s Cove, located on Lake Travis, is a highlight for some residents, as it transforms into a lively party scene during summer weekends. Boaters gather to anchor, play music, and socialize. However, this vibrant atmosphere sometimes leads to unruly celebrations. Consequently, new regulations have been enacted to manage the environment, limiting the number of boats that can be tied together to maintain the safety and integrity of the area.
Coffee Shops and Restaurants
Close to Steiner Ranch is The Oasis, often referred to as the “sunset capital of Texas.” This multi-level restaurant not only provides stunning views of Lake Travis but also boasts an excellent dining experience perfect for enjoying sunsets. Moreover, the area features the Four Points Shopping Center, home to an H-E-B grocery store, Starbucks, Austin’s Pizza, and Subway. Nearby, you can find Lakeline Mall, with its food court and various dining options, along with the Hill Country Galleria, which includes numerous restaurants and shopping opportunities.
Real Estate
The housing market in Steiner Ranch features a wide range of options, with prices ranging from approximately $450,000 to $6 million. The median home price stands around $550,000, while the average hovers in the $500,000s. The area offers both older and newer homes, and buyers may also choose to purchase a lot for custom construction. Typically, homes are around 10 years old and boast over 3,000 square feet. Property taxes in Steiner Ranch can be considerably high.
The Essentials
Post office: 2110 Ranch Road 620 S., Lakeway, Texas
Zip code: 78726
Schools: Steiner Ranch falls within the Leander Independent School District, which encompasses Steiner Ranch Elementary, Laura Welch Bush Elementary, and Canyon Ridge Middle School. Students from this neighborhood typically attend Cedar Park High School. Additionally, The School of the Hills Montessori is a reputable private school located within the community.
Stricter Codes
In 2018, stricter development codes were implemented, somewhat slowing down the growth in Steiner Ranch. Nevertheless, due to the strong demand for real estate in the area, no significant long-term effects on development are anticipated.
Edited by Robert Macias
