Westlake vs Bee Cave
Austin's Premier Luxury Suburbs Compared
Westlake and Bee Cave are two of Austin's most desirable western suburbs, both offering Hill Country living with excellent schools. Westlake is the pinnacle of Austin luxury with Eanes ISD, while Bee Cave delivers a more accessible price point with Lake Travis ISD and growing amenities like the Hill Country Galleria.
Westlake vs Bee Cave
Side-by-side neighborhood comparison for Austin, Texas homebuyers
Schedule a TourSide-by-Side Comparison
Key metrics comparing Westlake and Bee Cave for homebuyers
| Category | Westlake | Bee Cave |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $2.1M | $750K |
| Price Range | $800K - $10M+ | $400K - $3M |
| Property Tax Rate | 1.75% | 1.85% |
| School District | Eanes ISD | Lake Travis ISD |
| Walk Score | 28 | 22 |
| Commute to Downtown | 15 min to Downtown Austin | 25 min to Downtown Austin |
| Lot Sizes | 0.5 - 5+ acres | 0.15 - 1 acre |
| Vibe / Character | Ultra-exclusive, gated estates, prestigious | Family-friendly suburban, Hill Country charm |
| Best For | Executives, top-tier schools, privacy | Families, outdoor lovers, value seekers |
Why Choose Westlake?
Advantages of living in Westlake, Austin
#1 Schools in Texas
Eanes ISD is consistently ranked the top school district in Texas, with Westlake High producing National Merit Scholars and Division I athletes year after year.
Unmatched Prestige
Westlake is Austin's most prestigious address. Home to tech executives, celebrities, and legacy families, the community offers privacy and exclusivity unmatched in Central Texas.
Closest to Downtown
Only 15 minutes from downtown Austin, Westlake offers the rare combination of estate-level privacy with genuine urban proximity for dining, entertainment, and work.
Strongest Appreciation
Westlake properties consistently appreciate at 5-7% annually, outpacing the broader Austin market. Limited inventory and high demand protect long-term investment value.
Why Choose Bee Cave?
Advantages of living in Bee Cave, Austin
Better Value per Dollar
Bee Cave offers Hill Country living at roughly one-third the price of Westlake. Families get excellent schools, modern amenities, and scenic beauty without the multi-million-dollar price tag.
Hill Country Galleria
The Hill Country Galleria provides walkable shopping, dining, entertainment, and community events right in Bee Cave, creating a true town center that Westlake lacks.
Lake Travis Access
Bee Cave's proximity to Lake Travis means easy access to boating, swimming, and waterfront dining. Lake Travis ISD also brings a strong athletic and community identity.
Newer Construction
Much of Bee Cave features modern construction from the 2000s-2020s with updated floor plans, smart home features, and energy-efficient designs that older Westlake estates may lack.
Which is Right for You?
Scenario-based recommendations to help you decide
Choose Westlake if...
- ✓ You want the #1 school district in Texas (Eanes ISD)
- ✓ You prioritize privacy, large lots, and estate-level living
- ✓ You want to be closest to downtown Austin
- ✓ Budget is $1M+ and appreciation is a priority
Choose Bee Cave if...
- ✓ You want excellent schools at a more accessible price point
- ✓ You value walkable retail and dining at Hill Country Galleria
- ✓ Lake Travis lifestyle and water access appeal to you
- ✓ You prefer newer construction with modern amenities
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Westlake vs Bee Cave
Westlake commands a significant premium primarily due to Eanes ISD, which is ranked #1 in Texas. If top-tier school rankings and estate-level privacy are your priorities, the premium is justified. However, Bee Cave's Lake Travis ISD is also highly rated (top 5 in Austin), making it an excellent value alternative.
Westlake is served by Eanes ISD, ranked #1 in Texas. Bee Cave is served by Lake Travis ISD, ranked in the top 5 in the Austin metro. Both districts are exceptional, but Eanes ISD has a slight edge in academic rankings and college placement rates.
Westlake is approximately 15 minutes from downtown Austin via Loop 360 or MoPac. Bee Cave is about 25 minutes via Highway 71 or Ranch Road 620. Both areas experience rush hour congestion, but Westlake's proximity to MoPac gives it a commute advantage.
Bee Cave has significantly more new construction options, with active developments offering modern floor plans from the $500Ks. Westlake new construction is rare and typically custom-built on remaining lots, starting at $2M+. Teardown-rebuilds in Westlake often exceed $3M.
Both are excellent for families. Westlake offers the prestige of Eanes ISD and quiet, spacious lots. Bee Cave offers more family-oriented community events, walkable retail at the Galleria, and parks like the Bee Cave Central Park. Bee Cave's more accessible price point also allows families to invest in lifestyle rather than mortgage.
Related Pages
Explore more about Austin neighborhoods and school districts
Need Help Choosing Between Westlake and Bee Cave?
Key Insight: Texas real estate offers exceptional opportunities for buyers, sellers, and investors across four major metros. With no state income tax, strong job growth, and diverse housing options, the Lone Star State continues attracting residents from across the nation seeking value and quality of life.
Connect with a Dwellverse Austin real estate expert who knows both neighborhoods inside and out. Get personalized guidance for your home search.