A second wind for the Brick Capital of the Southwest
The city of Elgin is a true main street Texas small town. Originally a small farming community roughly 22 miles east of Austin in the fertile Blackland Prairie, Elgin became the "Brick Capital of the Southwest." A small downtown of began to form in the early 20th century as European farming families moved from the prairies to Elgin, seeking work at cotton gins and brickmaking factories around the fledgling city. Recent history has not been as prosperous, but in the last few years, the city has bounced back with dozens of new businesses, schools and parks, plus major regional employers throughout Bastrop and Williamson counties. "It's more rural. It hasn't developed as much as Bastrop, and it's not as scenic in my opinion," says Realtor Kenneth Timerman of eXp Realty. "But it's kind of been blowing up because of its proximity to the Samsung plant in Taylor,"
The volume of preserved red brick buildings underscores Elgin's 19th-century prosperity.
The Samsung plant located near Taylor, provides jobs to residents of Elgin, TX.
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Historic downtown properties, remote farmhouses and new subdivisions
Between 2000 and 2007, Elgin grew from 5,700 residents to nearly 10,000, and it's continued to grow ever since. Increased housing demand has led to dozens of planned and proposed subdivisions surrounding the city, most offering single-family homes such as small snout houses and cottages sized less than 1,500 square feet. Downtown homes and those in rural areas tend to include ranchers and modern farmhouses in various designs, while the outer areas are loaded with land plots to build on. Land in Elgin can range dramatically in price, from $65,000 to $600,000 per acre. The median single-family home price is $318,000, although historic downtown homes, farmhouses and ranchers can sell for around $500,000 and up.
Many historic homes encompass the center of downtown Elgin.
Subdivisions surrounding Elgin offer snout houses and cottages to fit every family.
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Downtown investments are revitalizing the Brick Capital of the Southwest
Elgin's downtown, a National Register Historic District, has the aesthetics of an antique postcard from the Old West. Corrugated metal awnings hang over the sidewalks from facades of false-front commercial buildings that line a wide main street intersected by train tracks. Known as the "Brick Capital of the Southwest," the volume of preserved red brick buildings underscores Elgin's 19th-century prosperity when wooden buildings were replaced by the much sturdier and more fire-resistant material. In 1990, Elgin was designated a Texas Main Street City, a statewide program that pairs economic development with historic preservation. Since then, more than $26 million has been invested, completing ten building restoration projects and attracting 15 new businesses. Today's local businesses include vintage clothing stores, food markets and wine shops, and restaurants like ice cream parlors, cafes and taverns. Numerous barbecue smokehouses are found throughout Elgin, with Meyer's Smokehouse being arguably the most famous, mainly known for its sausages. For errands, locals hop over to the big box stores and supermarkets found west of U.S. Highway 290.
Elgin was originally a small farming communioty that became the "Brick Capital of the Southwest."
The famous Meyer's Smokehouse in Elgin is mainly known for it's sausages.
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Sausages and singalongs at Hogeye Festival
Much of the renewed energy and development in downtown Elgin is owed to community events, none more than the annual Hogeye Festival. As the primary fundraiser for downtown projects, the festival celebrates barbecue, smokers, sausage makers and all things pig-related. For the main event, locals parade and sing parodies of famous songs with a porcine twist, like "Hoofloose" and "P-O-R-K in the USA." Other hallmarks include the Road Hog Car Show, a barbecue cook-off and, in a nod to Elgin's industrial history, a brick-throwing contest.
The annual Hogeye Festival is held at Elgin Memorial Park and Rec Center.
Elgin is known for it's smoked sausage and everything pig-related.
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Two new elementary schools for Elgin ISD and even more to come
Rapid growth is happening for the Elgin Independent School District, rated C by Niche. With 5,400 students spread across 9 schools, including one early college high school, more room is needed for the future. The district has received funding for numerous new campuses to accommodate the growing enrollment. Construction crews broke ground on Elgin's fifth elementary school in 2024, preceded by the opening of a new fourth elementary school earlier that year, and a sixth elementary school is planned for the near future.
Trinity Ranch Elementary School in Elgin is set to open in 2025.
Growth for the Elgin Independent School District is moving at a rapid pace.
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Additional green space and playground equipment downtown at Veterans Memorial Park
Elgin's recreation options span 120 acres of parkland throughout the city, plus outdoorsy activities further out, like horseback riding ranches and skeet shooting ranges. The city's parks and recreation department hosts 45 annual events at city parks and rec centers, including group exercise classes and craftmaking programs for kids. Elgin adopted a master plan for its parks system in 2021, aiming to improve park accessibility and sustainability throughout the city by 2031. The plan contains dozens of goals, like increasing educational programming and special events, adopting ecologically friendly designs, and major renovations to existing parks. Some goals are already coming to fruition, like the reopening of Veterans Memorial Park in 2024, bringing two additional city blocks of green space downtown, new fixtures like an outdoor stage and playground, and a zipline.
Elgin's Veterans Memorial Park was reopened in 2024 making it a place most visited.
The Elgin Veterans Memorial Park offers a new playground with a zipline.
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Numerous routes for trips across Central Texas
Elgin's highways offer numerous connections across Central Texas. "If you're traveling to Houston, 290 is the main corridor for Central and North Austin and the North suburbs. And now TX-130 is kind of the new corridor if you want to avoid, Interstate 35. It's kind of the new route north to Waco and Dallas, and south to San Antonio," says Realtor Miriam Moorman of Fathom Realty. Most residents are car-dependent, as the city's only form of public transportation is the Capital Area Rural Transportation System, which offers regional intercity buses and reservation-based curbside pickups.
Crime statistics and environmental considerations
Crime trends in Elgin have varied over the last few years. According to FBI data, the violent crime rate in Elgin began to rise in 2018 and has since fluctuated above and below state and national figures. Meanwhile, the property crime rate rose above state and national averages in late 2021 but has since declined below state and national averages. To address this, the Elgin Police Department has sought to increase recruitment to match a growing population and has installed 13 Flock Security cameras throughout the city.
Elgin's location in the Blackland Prairie makes it vulnerable to subtropical weather-related hazards, primarily tornados and heavy rain leading to flash floods. The city is also in an ember zone, posing some risk of wildfires, which are heightened by droughts—something Central Texas is no stranger to.
Written By
Tom Jakob
Photography Contributed By
Leigh Christian
Video By
Maurice McNeil
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Elgin, TX sell after 93 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Elgin, TX over the last 12 months is $303,740, down 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
MLS# 5357124 - Built by Trophy Signature Homes - Ready Now! ~ The exquisite Pinehurst, a thoughtfully designed floor plan that combines rustic charm with modern functionality. This layout offers a seamless blend of spaciousness and warmth, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate both style and practicality in their home. Experience the perfect balance of classic elegance and
MLS# 7704572 - Built by Trophy Signature Homes - Ready Now! ~ The birch tree represents new beginnings and what better place to start anew than with a floor plan bearing the same name? Invite new neighbors over for a housewarming party featuring stuffed mushrooms. The secret ingredient is the gourmet kitchen you used to make them in. There’s plenty of room to entertain in the airy great room, but
New Construction | 4 Beds | 2.5 Baths | Study | Game Room | 2-Story | 2,348 Sq Ft | Ready March | The Sofia offers a bright, functional two-story layout designed for everyday living and easy entertaining. Step into the entrance foyer, where a front study with French doors creates the perfect space for working from home or focused study time.The heart of the home is the open kitchen, featuring
This charming two-story home, built in 2022, offers modern comfort and style in a vibrant community featuring a clubhouse, playground, pool, walking trails, dog park, and a sports court. There are several schools within walking distance. The stunning white kitchen is a chef’s dream, with a large island and sleek stainless steel appliances, perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. The
Welcome to 108 Irene St, a beautifully updated single-family home located in the heart of Elgin, just minutes from historic downtown, local dining, shopping, and entertainment. This inviting residence is move-in ready and thoughtfully designed for comfortable everyday living, with a kitchen that serves as the true centerpiece of the home, featuring stylish shaker cabinets and a thoughtful layout
Welcome to 318 Schuylerville Drive - a beautifully maintained home in Elgin’s desirable Saratoga Farms community offering the perfect blend of small-town charm and modern convenience ~ This home backs to a dedicated green space with no neighbors behind ~ Built in 2018, this 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home delivers bright, open living spaces designed for comfort and effortless entertaining ~ Step inside
Up to $14,000 in seller credits at closing! This single-level home offers a generous 1,920 square feet of unfinished space with 4 bedrooms and 4 full bathrooms, including a primary ensuite and a guest bedroom with its own ensuite, presenting the perfect opportunity to design and create your own custom dream home. Situated on a spacious 0.30-acre lot, this is 3 city lots with large mature trees,
This well-cared-for home offers a spacious, comfortable layout and is walking distance to Elgin High School. Clean, Move In ready, and full of natural light, it’s the kind of home that immediately feels welcoming the moment you step inside. The kitchen features granite countertops, energy-efficient appliances, and beautiful designer cabinetry perfect for everyday cooking or weekend entertaining.
If you’ve been craving a little more space between you and the rest of the world, this home delivers that feeling the moment you arrive. The property offers a generous lot with the freedom to live your way—garden, play, work, host, or simply enjoy quiet evenings without the rules and restrictions of an HOA. Inside, the layout brings in warm natural light and gives you flexible rooms that adapt to
Located on a beautiful 8+ acre tract in Elgin, TX, you'll find 120 Twin Oaks RD, a 2004 Fleetwood Manufactured Home (28'x76') This property is a fantastic option for investors and handy homeowners alike. With four bedrooms, two bathrooms and two living areas, there is ample space. This property offers many possibilities. Being sold AS-IS. Manufactured home is in need of repairs.
Investor and builder opportunity. 0.308-acre level lot zoned R-3 (Single Family, Duplex, and Zero Lot Line Two-Family District). Property includes a teardown home, creating an ideal blank canvas for redevelopment. Build a single-family rental or duplex and create a strong long-term cash-flow opportunity. No HOA for maximum flexibility and fewer restrictions. Mature trees and no neighbors on one
Well-maintained single-story home featuring a functional floor plan! Inside you’ll find an inviting living space ideal for everyday living. The dining area is filled with natural light from large windows and a sliding glass door that opens to the expansive backyard. Outdoors boasts a fully fenced yard with mature trees, plenty of green space, and on site storage shed. Vacant, easy to show, and
This single-family residence offers an inviting home ready to welcome its residents. The living room serves as the heart of the home, offering a space to gather and unwind, with a rock fireplace that promises cozy evenings and where the vaulted ceiling enhances the sense of spaciousness. The primary bedroom provides a private retreat with the convenience of an ensuite bathroom. This property
Seller financing available with 10% down and estimated 9–10% interest, making this an accessible and flexible opportunity to own land in a rapidly growing area near Elgin, TX. Situated along County Line Rd with convenient access to TX-130 and nearby communities, this property offers a strong combination of location and long-term potential. A major value-add is that public water meters have
Rare opportunity to secure 11.6 unrestricted acres situated ideally between Tesla Giga Factory and the newly announced SpaceX location along the fast growing corridor of FM 969. A huge benefit to this property is its location outside of the flood zone. Several acres of the property has already been cleared and is ready for development. The property is unique as it’s conveniently located along FM
Modern home. Split bedrooms. Elgin offers a small-town charm with the convenience of a short drive to Austin. There is plenty to do in Elgin, nearby Bastrop, and surrounding parks and attractions. No neighbors behind house. Quick access to 290. 18 miles from Tesla; 15 miles from Samsung; 20 miles from downtown Austin.
All Sterling & Associates Real Estate residents are enrolled in the Resident Benefits Package (RBP) which includes liability insurance, credit building to help boost the resident’s credit score with timely rent payments, HVAC air filter delivery (for applicable properties), move-in concierge service making utility connection and home service setup a breeze during your move-in, our best-in-class
Prepare for a delightful discovery at 162 Hayloft LN, Elgin, TX, where a truly attractive property, sparkling in great condition and practically brand new from 2024, is eagerly awaiting its new occupant. Step into the large living room with high ceilings throughout the home and vinyl laminate floors in the living room, kitchen, and breakfast area. A generously sized large kitchen island beckons
Cozy corner lot home in Harvest Ridge community. Come check out this recent construction one story home situated in Elgin's premier community Harvest Ridge. Home features 3 bedrooms 2 baths and 1 car garage. Nice corner lot! Come check it out today!
This home is completely furnished and ready for move in for a one year lease at $2500/month, or on a mid-term lease. $2995/month is for a 6 month lease. Three month lease would be $3200/month. For a two month lease the tenant pays $3600/ and the owner pays the utilities and yard maintenance. Tenant pays utilities and yard maintenance for any lease term over two months. Located at 710 N Avenue C
Discover Affordable Living at Crescent Village! A welcoming apartment community in Elgin, TX, offering spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom floor plans. Just minutes from Austin, our community provides a peaceful retreat with easy access to Highway 290 and SH-95, making commutes to Manor, Taylor, Round Rock, and Downtown Austin effortless.Residents enjoy modern apartment
HURRY! BRING YOUR FAMILY TO SEE YOUR NEW HOME! LOVELY 3 BEDROOM / 2 BATH COUNTY LINE HOME. READY FOR IMMEDIATE MOVE-IN - OPEN FLOOR PLAN, LIVING ROOM AND KITCHEN READY FOR ENTERTAINING! LAMINATE FLOORING THROUGHOUT - CARPET IN THE BEDROOMS. CONVENIENT TO HWY 290 CLOSE TO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL AND AUSTIN COMMUNITY COLLEGE AND SCHOOLS. MAKE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY! DON'T LET THIS ONE PASS YOU BYE!
Welcome to your new home in Elgin, TX! This charming property offers a comfortable living space in a vibrant community, with easy access to several great restaurants and a nearby department store, making everyday errands a breeze.This beautifully maintained property features ample square footage for your comfort, complete with central heating and air conditioning to keep you cozy
CONTACT LOCAL AGENT TO VIEW!Refrigerator, washer, and dryer included!Fabulous 4-bedroom, single-story home located on a quiet cul-de-sac in the desirable Westwind neighborhood. This move-in ready home offers a comfortable and functional layout perfect for everyday living.Enjoy the convenience of included appliances and the ease of an owner-managed property. A great opportunity to
Experience the epitome of modern living in this immaculate 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home nestled within the highly coveted Saratoga Farms neighborhood of Elgin, TX. Equipped with smart home capabilities and Solar Panels + Tesla Powerwall this home is capable of operating completely off the grid, saving you costs on your electricity bill!With a spacious floor-plan designed to maximize every
Welcome to 167 Appleberry Lane in the highly sought-after Harvest Ridge community in Elgin, TX. This spacious two-story home offers 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and over 2,200 sq ft of comfortable living space, thoughtfully designed for both everyday living and entertaining. The open-concept layout features a bright living area that flows seamlessly into the kitchen and dining space, complete with
Welcome to your new rental home in Elgin, TX! This inviting property offers a cozy atmosphere, perfect for those looking to settle in a vibrant community. With great amenities, Nestled close to a variety of fantastic restaurants and a nearby department store, this location ensures you have everything you need at your fingertips.Key property features include ample space for comfortable
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