What life in West Campus is like near UT and the Drag
West Campus runs on UT energy. Right next to the University of Texas at Austin, it's one of the densest neighborhoods in the city, where high-rise apartments tower over fraternity and sorority houses. Along its eastern edge runs Guadalupe Street, better known as The Drag, a lively stretch lined with some of the city’s most iconic shops and restaurants. On game days, crowds of burnt orange flood the sidewalks on their way to Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium, and the buzz is unlike anywhere else in Austin. It's a natural fit for students living off campus, but it works for anyone who wants to be near UT and doesn't mind a loud, lively scene.
UT is a short walk from Austin's West Campus neighborhood.
West Campus is one of the most popular neighborhoods for UT students living off campus.
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Condos dominate a housing market shaped by UT students
High-rise apartments are the most common housing option here. Most are marketed toward UT students, and more than 90% of West Campus residents are renters. Buyers will find a condo-heavy market that attracts investor-owners and parents buying a place their student can live in until graduation. Low- and mid-rise condo buildings are the norm, with options ranging from older three-story walk-ups to newer builds with shared amenities. Condo prices typically fall from the upper $100,000s to the mid-$400,000s. Farther from campus, you'll see a few early 20th-century bungalows and Craftsman-style homes. Single-family houses don't come on the market often and usually sell for over $1 million.
If you're buying here, it helps to know West Campus doesn't operate like most Austin neighborhoods. “West Campus has a reputation of being a lively neighborhood,” says Alex Ray, broker and owner of Austin Residence. “If they've outgrown their undergrad days and just want a quieter, more residential feel, a lot of students prefer North University or Hyde Park. However, there's so much more supply in West Campus now that we definitely see grad students in West Campus, especially because if you don't have a vehicle, West Campus is going to be the most walkable option.”
Caswell Lofts in the West Campus neighborhood of Austin, TX.
Single-family homes are rare, and many have been converted into rental properties.
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Walkability comes with busy weekends and limited parking
West Campus is the heart of off-campus living, so the sights and sounds of university life are hard to avoid. There are a few quieter corners, but student life spills onto pretty much every street. “The area can be a little chaotic and noisy, especially on the weekends,” says Jason Botello, a broker associate with Asterra. “It's a lot of college students, so that's to be expected.” Parking is another thing to plan for. Street parking is limited and permit-restricted in much of the neighborhood, and garage spots often cost extra each month. You don’t need a car here, though, since you’re within walking distance of campus, the Drag and more.
West Campus events range from game days to Eeyore's Birthday
Life in West Campus follows the UT calendar. On football Saturdays, you'll see people tailgating in parking lots and in front of frat houses before walking over to DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium. Spring brings West Fest, the Greek community's annual weekend of concerts and parties along Rio Grande and San Antonio streets. "My office is right next door to one of the fraternity houses, so I certainly hear the annual concert they have during that time of year," Ray says. Later in April, many residents walk over to Pease Park for Eeyore's Birthday Party, a decades-old Austin tradition started by a UT student back in 1964. Move-in weekends in August and graduation in May are also busy times of year.
Best places to eat, drink and hear live music on the Drag
The Drag is where students, professors and residents grab coffee between classes, pick up lunch, meet friends for drinks and catch live music. From West Campus, you can walk to the Drag, Rio Grande and San Antonio streets for:
Coffee from Medici Roasting, Centro or Lucky Lab Coffee Co.
Tacos from Vocho’s Tacos, Zombie Taco or Cabo Bob’s
Burgers from Dirty Martin’s Place, P. Terry’s Burger Stand or In-N-Out Burger
Drinks at Cain & Abel’s, Victory Lap or Crown & Anchor Pub
Late-night bites from Mile High Mo’s, Kerbey Lane Café and Halal Bros
Live music is part of life here, too, with longtime spots like Cactus Cafe and Hole in the Wall drawing crowds most nights of the week. You'll also find vintage shops and UT-themed stores along the Drag, including the University Co-op, as well as a Target for everyday errands. For a bigger night out, most residents head south to downtown's Sixth Street District.
UT shuttles are a convenient way to get around West Campus.
West Campus has a walkable, bike-friendly vibe with UT shuttles
Walking is the easiest way to get around West Campus. UT's main campus, the Drag and the neighborhood's restaurants are all within a few blocks, and CapMetro's UT shuttle system covers the rest. “Shuttles are still used quite a bit, and there are just so many more options within walking distance of campus,” Ray says. Biking is another option. Residents can bike or walk over to Pease Park, where trails along Shoal Creek lead south toward Lady Bird Lake.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
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Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
West Campus
US
Homicide
7
4
Sexual Assault
5
4
Assault with Weapon
5
4
Robbery
4
4
Burglary
6
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
7
4
Larceny
6
4
Crime Score
6
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
West Campus Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in West Campus, Austin sell after 79 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in West Campus, Austin over the last 12 months is $284,000, down 14% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Experience the best of West Campus living in this spacious 4th-floor corner unit offering 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, perfectly designed for a multi-roommate lifestyle. Enjoy balcony views of Austin while living just steps from UT Campus and Pease Park. This secure community features fob-controlled entry, a gated parking garage, and the convenience of an in-building market. Walk just a few blocks
Views galore! Very private corner penthouse condo in the Galileo at 25th. 2 parking spots in gated garage under Galileo. Close to everything. Campus, restaurants, shopping, Orange Market on the first floor. Secured building. Digital concierge. Furnishings and refrigerator/washer/dryer negotiable. Great location, quiet for studying, and lots of close by amenities. This is a gem that does not come
Just six blocks from the University of Texas, this gated West Campus condo offers a rare combination of walkability, privacy, low-maintenance ownership, and long-term rental potential in one of Austin’s strongest student-housing corridors. Ideally positioned for UT parents, graduate students, investors, or lock-and-leave buyers, this updated cottage-style condo at The Cottages provides convenient
SELLER FINANCING available with rates as low as 4.5%—contact agent for details! Perfectly situated for UT students, this roommate-friendly 2-bedroom, 1-bath condo offers an ideal setup for shared living, with each bedroom featuring its own closet while sharing a comfortable living room and kitchen. The well-maintained interior boasts a spacious open floor plan, creating a functional and inviting
Welcome to this charming top-floor condo in the heart of West Campus! Located at 2801 Rio Grande St, this spacious 2-bedroom, 2-bath unit features 2 assigned parking spots and stacked washer and dryer. It offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and character just minutes from UT Austin, Guadalupe, downtown Austin, and countless dining, coffee, and entertainment options.Inside,
Located in Galileo on 25th, the heart of West Campus, this bright and spacious condo offers unbeatable walkability just steps from the University of Texas and countless dining, coffee shops, and retail options—with quick access to downtown Austin. Preleased for 2026-2027 school year at $3K/month. Inside, you’ll find an open-concept layout with beautiful flooring throughout and abundant natural
Perfectly positioned in the highly desirable 78705, this condo is ideal for UT students, faculty, medical professionals, tech employees, or anyone who wants to live close to the heart of Austin. Just minutes from The University of Texas, Downtown, Zilker Park, Auditorium Shores, and the energy of 6th Street, the location offers unbeatable access to work, school, nightlife, and outdoor recreation.
Seller financing Available with 4.5% rate! Freshly updated bottom floor 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo in the heart of West Campus offering the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and investment potential. This well maintained unit features a spacious open floor plan with abundant natural light, oversized bedrooms, and modern updates throughout. Each bedroom includes its own private full bathroom
Nestled on the top floor of the sought-after 2500 Longview St, Unit #507 is a serene escape in the heart of Austin. This 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom condo spans a well-designed 1,119 square feet, perfectly balancing comfort and style. From the moment you enter, you’re greeted by an inviting open floor plan that’s ideal for everything from cozy evenings at home to hosting gatherings with friends.
So close to campus, but feels like living in a treehouse. This 2-bedroom, 2 -bath condo is tucked among the trees and perched on a hill in the heart of West Campus. It offers privacy, character, in-unit laundry and unbeatable convenience just minutes from UT Austin, with views that soar west over Lamar Blvd. It comes with 2 parking spaces (1 inside the garage below the unit) plus an assigned spot
Well loved 2 Bed/2 Bath Condo in prime west campus location - Croix Condos! Approx 904 sqft. New HVAC. Purchase for your student to live in the for 2026-2027 school year and/or prelease it for top dollar! Step inside this condo and be greeted with generously sized living room, maximizing comfort and functionality. Tile and Vinyl flooring for easy maintenance and modern look. Galley typed kitchen
PRICE NOW REDUCED FOR FAST SALE!!! Prime Central Austin location at 1000 W 26th St! JUST MINUTES FROM UT, downtown, Pease Park, Shoal Creek trails, and top dining and coffee spots, this charming home offers the perfect blend of character, comfort, and unbeatable convenience.Filled with natural light, the home features inviting living spaces and a versatile layout designed for both everyday
Perfectly situated for UT students, this roommate-friendly 2-bedroom, 1-bath condo offers an ideal setup for shared living, with each bedroom featuring its own closet while sharing a comfortable living room and kitchen. The well-maintained interior boasts a spacious open floor plan, creating a functional and inviting living space. Located near W 24th Street with easy access to Mopac, this gated
Furnished Condo Available Now for a 6 month lease! This is a great find, conveniently located in the Campus area and near Downtown Austin! Walk to UT, restaurants, shopping, trails or bike/drive/take the bus to Downtown Austin, just a few minutes away. This 2 bedroom and 2 bath unit is move in ready and it has 2 assigned parking spots in the attached parking garage. Contact me today to schedule a
At The Quarters on Campus, you'll experience college the way you're supposed to - tailored to you! Our vibrant student apartments in Austin offer a variety of convenient amenities, including a 2,500-square-foot, leading edge ?tness center; multiple parking garage options; and spacious studio and 1-4 bedroom apartments. Our apartments include unfurnished and furnished student apartments that were
Spacious and stylishly updated 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo in the heart of West Campus, just minutes from The University of Texas at Austin. Designed with comfort and functionality in mind, each oversized bedroom features its own private en-suite bathroom—perfect for roommates, guests, or anyone seeking extra privacy. Filled with natural light, the open living space offers central air and heat, a
Location, location, location! Pre-Leasing for August 2025 - Enjoy free parking (# of spots depend on apt) and free WiFi. San Remo is a short walk from the UT campus and conveniently located on the “West Campus” shuttle bus route. Experience the casual elegance of this contemporary West Campus property. Built in 1994, San Remo is a small community nestled in a canopy of pecan and live oak trees
Freshly updated first-floor 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo in the heart of West Campus offering an ideal combination of comfort, convenience, and walkability. This well-maintained home features a spacious open floor plan with abundant natural light, oversized bedrooms, and modern finishes throughout. Each bedroom includes its own private en-suite bathroom and walk-in closet, providing an ideal layout
Sterling House features 100 apartments located on the corner of 22nd Street and Pearl Street that's within walking distance to the University of Texas and three blocks from Guadalupe Street.
Nestled in West Campus. Large windows with original wood framing throughout the home brings in plenty of natural lighting. Walking distance of several restaurants, grocery store, and the University of Texas.
1883 at Montgomery House Student Living is a trendy student housing community in The Quarters — 88 apartments located near 27th Street and Nueces Street that’s within walking distance to the University of Texas and two blocks from Guadalupe Street.Our Location-Living in the heart of West Campus gives residents walkable access to wherever they want to be — the Moody College of
Nueces House is a newer addition to The Quarters and one of the largest - eight stories featuring 235 apartments that is within walking distance to the University of Texas and two blocks from Guadalupe Street.
1883 at Cameron House Student Living is a quaint student living community in The Quarters — 64 apartments located near 27th Street and Rio Grande Street that’s within walking distance to the University of Texas and four blocks from Guadalupe Street.
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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