A growing Main Street town, deep in the Lost Pines Forest
Thirty miles east of Austin, the city of Bastrop unfurls across a different landscape than its metropolitan neighbor. Roughly 12,300 people call the city home, taking advantage of its relatively affordable home prices, its secluded environment and the area's rapidly growing job market. A strong local business scene also grows in what was once a German timbering colony, now turned into a commuter hub with a vibrant Main Street. "I've lived all over Texas and there's nothing like Bastrop. It's one of a kind," says Realtor and Bastrop resident Kenneth Timerman of All City Real Estate. "I have a home where I can see for 15 miles because I'm on top of these huge hills, and I'm surrounded by pine trees, bobcats, foxes, a ton of bird life, deer everywhere, hawks. It's about as close to the mountains as you can get in Central Texas. But if you drive by it on Highway 71, you'd not even really know it's there."
Bastrop is known for its pockets of pine trees.
Downtown Bastrop offers plenty of dining and shopping options.
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New builds aplenty in a buyer's market of modest prices
Most buyers come to Bastrop seeking affordable single-family homes compared to the higher prices in Austin proper. In Austin, the median single-family home price is $600,000, whereas buyers in Bastrop pay closer to a median price of $400,000. Over the last few years, market conditions stimulated residential construction in Bastrop, leading to developing subdivisions like Pecan Park, known for modestly priced new traditional homes in a prairie style. Homes in newer master-planned communities like the Colony tend to be larger and more expensive, with a blend of new traditional and modern farmhouse. The downtown area has many of Bastrop's most established homes, including ranch-style houses from the 1970s. South of TX-71, the suburban neighborhood of Tahitian Village is one of Bastrop's premier communities, known for its established ranch-style homes and modern farmhouses, as well as a few land plots that typically range from $70,000 to $200,000 per acre.
Classic American homes with contemporary influences can be found in Bastrop.
A variety of 70's ranch homes are littered throughout Bastrop, Texas.
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Tesla, Samsung and other tech employers throughout East Austin
Roughly 30 miles of highway separates Bastrop from downtown Austin. A major commuter hub, Bastrop lacks public transportation besides the Capital Area Rural Transportation Service, providing on-demand bus rides within Bastrop County. TX-71, the main east-west connector, provides a straight shot to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, and TX-95 heads to the new Samsung plant in Taylor. "There's all sorts of things going on out here," Timerman says. "All the businesses moving out here, like the Boring Company, SpaceX and Twitter's [now X's] new headquarters in Bastrop, all of those are like 10 to 15 minutes away from Bastrop."
SpaceX is one of the largest employers in the Bastrop area.
The June Hill Pape Riverwalk Trail follows the Colorado River.
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Endangered pine forests with miles of trails and swimming spots on Lake Bastrop
Downriver from Austin, Bastrop's ecology is noticeably unique for the metro area. The small city is located in the Lost Pines Forest, a rich grotto of loblolly pines that spreads to Bastrop State Park and the shoreline parks along Lake Bastrop. "You kind of lose that vibe of being in Central Texas in some parts," says Realtor Nate Dominguez of the Zell Team for Compass RE Texas. "There's not so many oak and cedar trees. You get really tall pines." A 2011 wildfire — the most destructive in Texas history — destroyed all but 5% of the forest's original 75,000 acres. Yet there are ongoing efforts to revive the forest, its parks and its endangered species. Plenty of swimming spots and hiking trails on Lake Bastrop remain open, and kayaking the Colorado River remains popular on the 6-mile El Camino Real Paddling Trail. Within the city, 14 parks offer a variety of amenities, including disc golf, splash pads and rec centers. Footpaths like the June Hill Pape Riverwalk Trail offer scenic pedestrian connections between riverfront parks and the Bastrop Public Library. Next door, the city is working to transform the Colorado River Bridge, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, into an elevated park à la the High Line in New York.
The Colorado River runs right through Bastrop.
Bob Bryant park offers ample green space to run and play.
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Main Street businesses and the only Buc-ee's for miles
Bastrop's small downtown is home to dozens of locally owned businesses — taverns, bakeries, clothing boutiques, steakhouses, bookstores, antique shops — occupying rows of preserved Victorian and neoclassical buildings on Main Street. Awnings keep the narrow sidewalks shaded most hours of the day as residents and day-trippers pop into one of the many downtown landmarks like the Bastrop Opera House or Maxine's on Main. The west side of the Colorado River is where most locals go for errands at supermarkets, big-box retailers and a variety of chain restaurants, including Texan favorites like Whataburger. Bastrop also has the only Buc-ee's location between Temple and Luling, making the famed chain a go-to stop for locals and passers-though.
Buc-ee's is the one-stop-shop for all things road trip.
A walk on Main Street is perfect for a sunny afternoon in Bastrop, Texas.
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A new elementary school for Bastrop ISD
Bastrop Independent School District receives an overall B-minus rating from Niche while being ranked the second-best district in Bastrop County. Bastrop ISD oversees 13,000 students across 17 schools, and enrollment has grown by 17% over the last five years.
Mardi Gras traditions and multicultural music festivals
The Bastrop Music Festival is a weekend-long annual event in September that pulls in acts from across the region. Bastrop also hosts an annual Mardi Gras festival with all the trappings of the traditional New Orleans extravaganza. Organizers work with Mardi Gras krewes from neighboring Louisiana to assemble a parade down Main Street, plus a lineup of live music performers, gumbo and king cakes galore.
Crime and wildfire prevention
Bastrop is susceptible to droughts, which can lead to flash floods and wildfire risks. Downtown is susceptible to wildfires, as Bastrop is in an ember zone, and areas with high vulnerability sit 5 miles north, around Camp Swift. In 2011, Bastrop saw the most destructive wildfire in Texas history, scorching 32,000 acres, destroying 1,600 homes and decimating the Lost Pines Forest.
FBI data generally shows higher-than-average crime rates in Bastrop. In 2019, the city's property crime rate rose above state and national numbers and has since remained above average, though steady. Meanwhile, the rate of violent crime has been trending downward since 2019, thought it remains higher than state and national numbers. To address crime, the city and its police department have launched numerous crime-prevention programs as well as improvements to street lighting downtown.
Written By
Tom Jakob
Photography Contributed By
Wyatt Stueve
Video By
Matt Ferguson
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Bastrop, TX sell after 92 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Bastrop, TX over the last 12 months is $365,000, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Your Forever Home Awaits: Open-Concept Living and Resort-Style Amenities in the Heart of The Colony. Step inside and experience the perfect blend of modern luxury and design at 120 Plumbago Loop, a 2024-built Perry Home that feels brand new from the moment you arrive. As you walk through the contemporary glass front door, you are greeted by an expansive hallway featuring 10-foot ceilings and
Spring has come to Riverside at The Colony! This gardener/seller has made this home a showplace. Better-than-new David Weekley home was completed in 2022, lightly lived in, and shows like a model. Built from the ground up with upgrades on a premium lot, it offers added space between neighbors and room to garden, plus newly planted trees for years of enjoyment. The open, light-filled floor plan is
Welcome to this stunning Dimora Homes flagship custom-built modern residence nestled on a private double lot in the coveted Tahitian Village neighborhood of Bastrop. Surrounded by mature pine trees and set on a low-traffic street, this exceptional property offers privacy, Brinks full home security system, panoramic views, track entertainment lighting and refined indoor-outdoor living. Step inside
Two Double-Wide Mobile Homes on 0.9150 Acres – Owner Financing Available!Don’t miss this excellent investment opportunity! This property features two spacious, newly remodeled double-wide mobile homes, each offering 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, with separate electrical and water meters, perfect for families or rental income. The property sits on nearly one acre (0.9150 acres) of land,
This 4-bedroom, 2-bath residence in Bastrop offers an interior defined by a bright, open-concept floor plan, soaring high ceilings, and clean recessed lighting. Designed for seamless social gatherings. The kitchen flows effortlessly into the living and dining rooms, which are bathed in natural light from large windows. Privacy and convenience are key features of the main-level primary suite. Its
Beautiful Home, Move in Ready! Custom Nalle Home on 5 acres in private pocket neighborhood, just minutes from everything Bastrop, & Austin commute. Peaceful location at the end of a cul de sac in beautifully wooded area with light restrictions. House sits back from the road and has a nice gated entry. All bedrooms and baths are on Main level with an additional upper level game room. Home has 4
Single-Story Home in The Colony Master-Planned Community Welcome to 112 Rosemary Court — a beautifully maintained home offering comfort, function, and access to premier neighborhood amenities. With an open layout and quality finishes throughout, this property blends easy living with timeless style. Property Highlights • 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 1,984 sq ft • Open-concept layout connecting the
Experience the essence of Texas country living on this serene and secluded 23.45-acre retreat near charming Bastrop. Tucked among a mature tree canopy, this private estate offers a unique blend of heritage and craftsmanship. The custom-built two-story cabin evokes central Texas history with reclaimed wood flooring sourced from a historic Walburg cabin, an original 1950s stove from the Pfluger
Discover modern elegance at 132 Periwinkle Lane, Bastrop, TX 78602, a stunning single-story home built in 2022 in the vibrant Colony community. Move-in ready and better than new, this home features a bright open floor plan, a chef’s kitchen that shines with 42" cabinets, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, gas cooking, and sleek tile flooring. Energy-efficient upgrades include a
The 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom Trinity model offers a beautiful single-story floor plan, perfect for the modern family or a seasoned entertainer. As you enter the home, you ll notice the study off to your left, which can serve as the ultimate work-from-home office or a guest bedroom. The primary bedroom sits towards the back of the home, featuring a luxurious ensuite and walk-in closet. The foyer
New, 1480 sqft, 4 bedroom, 2 bath manufactured mobile home + a 1 bedroom, 1.5 bath garage apartment about 1,350 sqft, on a 0.803-acre lot, privacy fence and gated. This is the perfect place to live in one and rent the other home, or to have your guests enjoy their privacy while visiting. The property is less than 10 minutes from downtown Bastrop.
**ASSUMABLE LOAN with 4.99% Interest rate** Escape to serenity in this stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom single-story home in Bastrop, perfectly positioned to back up to a serene greenbelt. The modern exterior boasts a well-groomed front yard featuring xeriscape elements, setting the tone for a peaceful retreat. Upon entering, you'll be greeted by the bright, open, and airy entryway with charming
This practically new 2022 home features 2,275 sqft of thoughtfully designed living space including 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms which flow seamlessly into the living and dining room, a large loft that’s perfect for a playroom or home office, 2-car garage, 2-car driveway, and ample street parking, AND The home remains under builder warranty for major systems, offering additional peace of mind, BUT
Experience luxury living in this fully furnished custom home in Tahitian Village with pool, golf simulator, home gym, and library. Available for both short and long-term stays, with flexibility ideal for corporate housing. Select furnishings can be removed upon request. Situated on ¾ of an acre directly across from Colorado River Refuge, this one-of-a-kind property blends space,
Discover this stunning 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home with a dedicated office/flex space, nestled in the heart of Tahitian Village. This move-in ready property boasts sweeping views of the Lost Pines, offering a rare combination of natural beauty and everyday convenience. Living here means easy access to the Colorado River Refuge, hiking and biking trails, golf, and Downtown Bastrop—making Tahitian
Wake up in a bright, open home with soaring ceilings, natural light, and space to spread out in one of Bastrop’s most convenient neighborhoods. Located in Pecan Park, this home offers comfort, functionality, and easy access to everything Bastrop has to offer. • 4 bedrooms + bonus room• 3 full bathrooms• Soaring ceilings with abundant natural light• Open, spacious layout with beautiful
Move in ready! With refrigerator, washer and dryer. two bedroom downstairs, two bedroom upstairs, 3 full bath. Close to SpaceX, Tesla Gigafactory, airport.
FOR LEASE – 113 Andrew Duvalt Cove | Bastrop, TX | The Colony Welcome to a rare opportunity in The Colony — this 5-bedroom, 4.5-bath home offers the space, layout, and lifestyle that’s hard to find in a rental. Situated on a quiet cul-de-sac, this home gives you room to spread out, host, work from home, or accommodate multi-generational living — all in one of Bastrop’s most sought-after
THIS IS A SPACIOUS 3 BEDROOM, 2 & 1/2 BATHROOM HOME WITH A SPACIOUS YARD, WITH NEARBY AMENITIES SUCH AS A CITY PARK, A POND WITH CATCH AND RELEASE. SWIMMING POOL, BASKET BALL COURT, AND MUCH MORE. IT IS CONVENIENTLY LOCATED NEAR SHOPPING, RESTAURANTS, AND HWY 71 AND FM 304.
Monthly rent includes water, trash, lawn care and propane! 2 bed/ 2 bath and very spacious living and kitchen area. Has a common area between the front and back unit. This home (back unit) has a yard and countless pine trees behind it that backs up to a wet weather creek. No smoking. Pet deposit required. Only internet and electricity required by tenant to pay. Has ADA ramp in the front.
Modern, newly constructed multifamily community offering thoughtfully designed one-, two-, and three-bedroom residences with upscale finishes throughout. Interiors feature open-concept layouts, chef-inspired kitchens with custom cabinetry, sleek subway tile backsplashes, granite countertops, and wood-style flooring. Each unit includes in-home washer and dryer, spacious closets, and contemporary
Modern, newly constructed multifamily community offering thoughtfully designed one-, two-, and three-bedroom residences with upscale finishes throughout. Interiors feature open-concept layouts, chef-inspired kitchens with custom cabinetry, sleek subway tile backsplashes, granite countertops, and wood-style flooring. Each unit includes in-home washer and dryer, spacious closets, and contemporary
Inside your one, two, or three-bedroom apartment home, enjoy chef-inspired kitchens with custom cabinets and sleek subway tile backsplashes. Convenience meets luxury with in-home washer and dryer units, wood-style plank flooring, and bathrooms adorned with granite countertops and modern tile surrounds.Discover resort-style amenities just steps from your door. Dive into relaxation at our sparkling
Welcome to a little slice of paradise in Bastrop County, Texas. This home is located in the sought after Tahitian Village neighborhood and is a perfect home for anyone looking to retreat from the daily chaos of life. The interior is so well done with stone finishes that are so beautiful and natural. The kitchen is centrally located in the home and just the right size for entertaining and having
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