A blend of tradition and growth along Lake Marble Falls in central Texas
Spread along the banks of its namesake lake, a reservoir in the Colorado River, Marble Falls lies about 50 miles northwest of Austin. “People love Marble Falls because of our Texas Hill Country, small-town charm and our beautiful, natural surroundings,” says Midge Dockery, Assistant Director of the Marble Falls Economic Development Corporation. The community blends tradition with recent growth. “Newcomers are welcomed with open arms,” Dockery says. The population has grown between 15 and 24 percent each decade since 1990, and now about 7,000 residents call this slice of central Texas home, as of the 2020 census. A mix of older homes and new planned developments provide options for homebuyers at a wide range of price points, while the downtown area has shopping, dining and local events that blend updates with tradition. “We take pride in preserving our heritage while also welcoming growth,” Dockery says.
Ranch-style homes near downtown and new developments to the south
Marble Falls home buyers have choices of both old and new. “The city is experiencing a wave of commercial and residential development, including expanded retail centers, mixed-use spaces, and new housing projects,” Dockery says. Homes around the downtown area are largely ranch-style houses with wide lawns and dirt driveways, some with attached garages or carports. Mid-sized trees provide some shade from the Texas sun.
New construction has sprouted south of downtown in the master-planned Thunder Rock community. Prices range from around $250,000 to $390,000. Residents have access to shared amenities like a sports complex and rec center. Gregg Ranch is another planned community, with resident-only parks and amenities, including a community center with an outdoor pool. Homes here cost between $340,000 and $610,000. Overall, the median single-family home price in Marble Falls is about $430,000.
Four elementary schools, a new early college program at Marble Falls High
Marble Falls Independent School District has four elementary schools. Spicewood Elementary earns an A-minus from Niche, Colt Elementary gets a B, Marble Falls Elementary earns a B-minus and Highland Lakes Elementary scores a C. Marble Falls Middle School scores a C-plus, and Marble Falls High School earns a B. The district recently implemented an Early College High School program open to any incoming ninth-grade students. Via Northeast Lakeview College, students can earn up to 60 college credits and earn their Associate of Arts degree.
Lake access, improving city parks and surrounding natural areas
The lake and river are two big outdoor attractions. “Lake Marble Falls and the nearby Colorado River offer abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation,” Dockery says. “Boating and paddleboarding are popular.” Johnson Park and Lakeside Park offer lake access and sports courts and fields, and the city is working to improve recreational facilities. “Efforts to revitalize downtown and enhance public amenities like parks and waterfront access signal our commitment to both economic vitality and quality of life,” Dockery says. Outdoor recreation outside of town includes Inks Lake State Park and Balcones Canyonlands. “Our surroundings are punctuated by state parks and natural wonders,” Dockery says.
Breweries, boutiques and the Blue Bonnet Cafe
Downtown Marble Falls is walkable and offers breweries, restaurants and boutiques. “The area is dotted with craft breweries like Bear King Brewing Co. and Save the World Brewing Co.,” Dockery says. The Blue Bonnet Cafe, now almost 100 years old, is known for its pie. “It’s an iconic Marble Falls institution,” Dockery says. Residents can take in lake views at River City Grille or check out boutiques. “Birdie's Market is a go-to for artisan crafts, candles, jewelry and décor, and supports local makers,” Dockery says. “Smartie Pantz is known for blending unique, one-of-a-kind items with popular boutique brands.” An H.E.B. grocery store, Walmart and Lowe’s are also available in Marble Falls.
Formula One boat racing, downtown festivals and summer music
Lakefest, a longtime local event, is evolving. “It will now be ‘Battle on the Colorado,’ the first-ever Formula One powerboat racing event on the Colorado River,” Dockery says. “It will feature state-of-the-art tunnel boats reaching speeds over 120 miles per hour.” Downtown festivals include Market Day on Main, which brings over 100 vendors to town, with live music and food. “Our city has vibrant festivals,” Dockery says. Free summer concerts occur at Johnson Park.
Routes to Austin and San Antonio, and a new transit service
Texas Route 71 heads east to Austin, while U.S. Route 281 runs south to San Antonio, about 85 miles away. The Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is about 53 miles away via Route 71. Baylor Scott & White Medical Center Marble Falls is about 6 miles south of downtown. While downtown Marble Falls is walkable, there isn’t public transit other than the Capital Area Regional Transportation System, which operates on-demand, and residents will likely want a vehicle.
