How Walkable is Northwest Hills in Austin, TX?

A car-dependent residential enclave in Austin's hills, Northwest Hills in Austin, TX earns a Walk Score of just 25. The area has developed as one of Austin's established hilltop residential communities since the 1970s, with winding streets and limited commercial development within its borders.

Walkability in the Austin area

Northwest Hills' Walk Score of 25 sits right at the "Car-Dependent" threshold, well below the metro average of 37. Among Austin neighborhoods in this group, only West Oak Hill (14) and Southeast Austin (12) score lower. The suburban cities of Cedar Park (26), Round Rock (26), and Leander (28) offer comparable or slightly higher scores.

The neighborhood's hilly terrain and cul-de-sac street pattern were designed around car access, not walking. There is no commercial center within the neighborhood, and the nearest shopping (at Far West Boulevard) requires navigating steep grades. Capital Metro provides limited bus service, and cycling is difficult due to the topography. Most residents drive for all daily needs.

What a Walk Score of 25 means

Northwest Hills's Walk Score of 25 puts it in the "Car-Dependent" category. Almost all errands require a car. The transit score of 18 (Minimal Transit) means very few transit options exist nearby. The bike score of 21 (Minimal Bike Infrastructure) reflects steep hills and roads without shoulders or bike lanes that make cycling impractical.

Why do buyers choose Northwest Hills?

Northwest Hills attracts buyers who value location and lot size over walkability. The median sale price is $1,271,566, up about 3% year over year. About a third of homes sell above asking, and nearly 35% go under contract within two weeks. With 4.4 months of supply, the market is moderately competitive despite the low walkability score.

At $1.3M, buyers get large lots, mature trees, and proximity to major employers along the MoPac corridor and US-183. The commute to downtown or the Domain takes 15-20 minutes by car. For buyers who want walkability at a similar price, Rosedale ($1.1M, WS 70) and Zilker ($1.1M, WS 75) offer dramatically better pedestrian access. Northwest Hills suits buyers who prioritize space, quiet, and established residential character over foot traffic.

Nearby neighborhoods

Limited to neighborhoods with at least 10 home sales in the period.

All data comes from Redfin and represents a three-month rolling average ending July 2026. This article has been generated, in whole or in part, using generative artificial intelligence (AI) technology, with input from Redfin head of economics research Chen Zhao. While efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of this information, you should independently verify all data, facts, and citations contained in this article before relying on it for any purpose. This information is not a substitute for advice from a real estate agent, financial advisor, or other licensed professional. Check the Redfin Data Center for additional in-depth housing market data.