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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On average, homes in Elgin, TX sell after 80 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Elgin, TX over the last 12 months is $299,990, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Charming and well-maintained, this 2-bedroom, 1-bath home offers approximately 1,294 square feet of comfortable living space on a beautifully landscaped 0.26-acre lot. The property offers a peaceful outdoor setting that’s perfect for relaxing, entertaining, and spending time outdoors.Recent updates include a AC system, hot water heater, front windows, foundation leveling, and a
Adjoining 28.875 ac with house also available MLS#6067903. Set on 18.573 acres in Coupland ISD, this 2018 single-story home offers the kind of space, privacy, and usable land that is getting harder to find. The 2,213 sq. ft. floorplan features 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2 living areas, and a dedicated home office with no interior steps. The open main living area includes high ceilings, wood beams,
Beat the Texas heat in your own private backyard oasis featuring a recently added swimming pool on a lush 1 acre cul-de-sac lot. Whether you're entertaining friends, enjoying family time, or relaxing after a long day, this outdoor retreat is perfect for Texas living. This spacious four-bedroom home is located in the highly sought after Arbors at Dogwood Creek. This thoughtfully designed residence
This Trinity Ranch home sits on a prime corner lot, combining a 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom layout with premium upgrades. Stepping through the welcoming foyer, durable wood-look flooring guides you past two bright secondary bedrooms that share a well appointed bathroom as you head into the heart of the home. The home opens up completely, where the kitchen and living room share a bright, connected
Charming and well-maintained, this 2-bedroom, 1-bath home offers approximately 1,294 square feet of comfortable living space on a beautifully landscaped 0.26-acre lot. The property offers a peaceful outdoor setting that’s perfect for relaxing, entertaining, and spending time outdoors.Recent updates include a AC system, hot water heater, front windows, foundation leveling, and a
Welcome Home! Lots of Windows and Natural Light! Spacious Living Area. Great Layout! Finished Garage. Bring your special touches and make it your own! Huge Back Yard!
Great duplex with good income and solid tenants. Side B has been there over 10 years and is on a month to month lease. Roof shingles recently replaced. One car garages for both sides and large fenced back yards. These units always stay leased.
Beautiful country living property 5 minutes from downtown Elgin, Main house has two bedrooms, one full bath and one 1/2 bath, Guest house has one bedroom, full bath, kitchen dining and living area, presently is leased for 1K month to month, Fully fenced with mature trees, oversize metal carport for 4 cars, come and see it, wont last under 350K24 hours notice, showings from 10 am to 8 pm
USDA eligibility with 100% financing for qualified buyers. 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. Set on a generous lot with no HOA, the property offers the freedom to live your way—garden, play, work, host, or simply enjoy quiet evenings without rules or restrictions. Inside, the layout is filled
Set among nearly 14 acres of mature woods, this thoughtfully cared-for brick home offers the rare combination of privacy, space, and everyday comfort. The home rests in a generous half-acre clearing, creating a peaceful setting surrounded by nature in every direction. Inside, you’ll find a bright, open kitchen with stainless steel appliances that flows easily into warm, inviting living spaces
Why wait on new construction when you can get more space for less? This move-in-ready home offers exceptional square footage and value at a newly reduced price that is difficult to beat!!! This home is beautifully updated! This spacious 4-bedroom, 2-bath home offers 2,059 square feet of comfortable living space in a quiet cul-de-sac location just minutes from shopping, dining, entertainment, and
Roof professionally restored on 7/13/2026. Welcome to 108 Irene St—an updated, move-in ready home just minutes from downtown Elgin’s shops, dining, and local charm.Inside, you’ll find a bright, functional layout with an open kitchen featuring shaker cabinets that flows easily into the main living area—great for everyday living or hosting. The home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, plus a
Sprawling 4 BR/2 Bath ranch-style bungalow perfect for multi-generational living, located on a large lot with a fenced backyard close to schools, parks, and historic Main Street. Unique floor plan offers a split layout with 2 BR/1BA located on one side of the house and a large master bedroom and renovated bathroom on the other side. Spacious living room, separate dining area, bright kitchen area
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
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
Back to School Special - $500.00 off of the first month's rent when you sign a lease and move in by August 1st! Looking for a spacious, modern home? This stunning 2-year-old home at 23408 Tiny Moons Way offers the perfect combination of comfort, style, and convenience. This beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers two levels of comfortable living, including a spacious upstairs
WE WILL HAVE A TWO-BEDROOM APARTMENT AVAILABLE IN MID AUGUST. Contact us through this site if you would like to be on the waiting list for the next available or if you need more information.The apartment complex is in friendly BBQ mecca Elgin, just 13 miles east of Austin.Take advantage of affordable Elgin rent for $500 to $900 a month LESS than the same apartment in Austin.
Welcome to this charming brick home located on Main Street, just a short walk from downtown businesses, the public library, and local parks. Enjoy relaxing on the spacious covered front porch before stepping inside to find generous living and dining areas, along with a large eat-in kitchen that offers plenty of space for everyday living and entertaining.The home also features an enclosed,
Welcome to your ideal rental opportunity in the charming city of Elgin, TX! This property is conveniently situated near several fantastic restaurants and department stores, providing you with everything you need right at your doorstep. For outdoor enthusiasts, Elgin Memorial Park is within walking distance, offering a lovely retreat for relaxation and recreation.The property is designed
Move-in ready and better than new, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home for rent in Harvest Ridge shows like a model. Built in 2023 and impeccably maintained, the home features durable wood-look tile throughout the living, dining, and kitchen areas, with no carpet in the main living spaces unlike many comparable rentals. The kitchen stands out with quartz countertops, an upgraded picket backsplash, a
Property Id: 928343 This charming ranch style single family home is located within the community of Homestead Estates. This brand-new home includes 3 bedrooms, 2 baths with 1525 sqft and gives off a very warm feeling with sunny windows and ample natural light. Upgrades featured in the plan are energy-efficient kitchen appliances, granite countertops, designer wood cabinetry, luxury
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
Property Id: 1181036 Welcome to your new home at 13817 Sierra Wind Ln in Elgin, TX! This stunning single family property features 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a spacious 2-car garage. Built in 2015, this home boasts modern amenities including a dryer, freezer, oven, microwave, and more. Pets are welcome too! Don't miss out on this gem - schedule a viewing today!
*FIRST MONTH FREE* Discover unparalleled comfort in this inviting residence, located in the vibrant master-planned community of Harvest Ridge, it's perfectly situated for a lifestyle of ease and accessibility. Step inside to find a thoughtfully designed layout across two stories, encompassing 3 spacious bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, providing ample space for relaxation and daily routines. All
Now offering 20-month leases. Sign today and lock in today’s low rate for the next 20 months! Offer valid for new applicants who sign a 20-month lease by July 31st, 2026. Base rent will remain at the 12-month lease rate for the duration of the 20-month term. Offer is contingent on application approval and execution of a lease agreement. Other terms and conditions may apply. This property is
Welcome to this spacious 4-bedroom, 3-bath home designed for modern living and effortless style. Step inside to find beautiful luxury vinyl flooring that flows throughout the open-concept main level, offering both durability and elegance. The well-appointed kitchen and living areas create the perfect space for entertaining and everyday comfort. Upstairs, you’ll find three bedrooms, including a
This duplex at 315 South Ave A Unit A, Elgin, features 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms within a total of 1,150 square feet. The living room offers ample space for relaxation and is designed for easy furniture arrangement. Each bedroom provides sufficient room for personal items and includes closet space. The bathrooms are equipped with standard fixtures and provide necessary amenities. The kitchen is
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