Living in Westlake—Everything You Need to Know

Westlake is a gem tucked away in the heart of Austin, Texas, radiating charm, warmth, and the promise of an enviable lifestyle. Many are drawn to its serene landscapes, world-class amenities, and the vibrant rhythm of everyday life. In this article, we walk you through all the essential things to know about this enchanting locale.

Every place has its distinctive rhythm and melody—a harmony of its strengths and weaknesses. Its college-town vibe, robust economy, and entertainment options weave an attractive tapestry, making it a delight for residents and visitors alike. Yet, like any city oasis, Westlake has its challenges—the cost of housing and the effects of growth being prominent among them.

Westlake's climate is more than just numbers and averages—it’s a symphony of nature’s best elements. The melding of warm temperatures with moderate rainfall strikes a harmonious balance, making every day feel like a gift. Whether you're a sun-seeker or a rain-lover, this Austin town offers the best of both worlds.

Westlake presents a tableau of experiences painted with the warm hues of Texas sunsets and the cool shades of its serene nights. Whether you're drawn by its educational reputation or the allure of its seasons, Westlake promises a life rich in memories and moments worth cherishing.

Westlake is not just a confluence of natural beauty and a thriving Austin community; it is also a culinary paradise, offering an array of restaurants that touch the heart as much as the palate. Whether you're in the mood for a comforting slice of pizza, a refreshing poke bowl, or a gourmet dish, the town boasts dining establishments that cater to every craving.

When you step into Baldinucci, you're stepping into a slice of Rome itself. Their pizza is not just food; it's an experience. The loving craftsmanship of the chefs kneading the dough, layering fresh ingredients, and the final drizzle of olive oil paints a picture of a Roman sunset. With each bite, you are transported to the cobblestone streets of Italy, hearing the distant chimes of bells and the laughter of children playing in piazzas.

Laurel isn’t just a restaurant; it's a sensory voyage. As you embark on this refined dining journey, the subtle elegance of the setting melds seamlessly with the rich, complex flavors of the dishes. Every plate tells a tale, a blend of history and innovation, drawing patrons into narratives woven with spices, herbs, and culinary magic. Here, dining becomes an evocative storybook where every chapter is a delicious surprise.

In the midst of Westlake lies a European gem, the Blue Dahlia Bistro. As you enter, you're wrapped in the gentle embrace of an old-world European café, where the aroma of freshly baked bread and brewed coffee mingle in the air. The ambiance speaks of intimate conversations, whispered secrets, and shared dreams. Their menu, a heartfelt ode to simplicity, celebrates the very essence of authentic flavors, making every visit feel like a quaint European holiday.

Picture a cozy Texan kitchen, where tales of generations past are shared over food brimming with tradition. The Texas Honey Ham Company brings this vision to life. Their hearty ham dishes, infused with the delicate sweetness of local honey, are a symphony of textures and flavors. Each dish is like a comforting embrace, a blend of nostalgia and the rich tapestry of Texan culture. It's not just food; it's a heartwarming melody that resonates with the soul.

The vibrant allure of Thailand comes alive in Westlake at Sway. Step into a realm where every dish blends the rich traditions of Thai cuisine with contemporary nuances. The harmonious dance of spices, the burst of flavors, and the visual elegance of each presentation are a testament to Sway’s passion. From the moment you walk into Sway’s to the very last bite, it's a mesmerizing journey that tantalizes the senses and leaves an indelible mark on the heart.

Venturing into Poke House is like setting sail on a tranquil sea voyage, where every bowl echoes the whispering waves and the vibrant pulse of marine life. With the essence of the ocean cradled in a bowl, each ingredient plays a pivotal role in bringing the art of poke to life. From the fresh chunks of tuna and salmon to the delicate garnishes that top them, there's a promise of an invigorating burst of freshness in every bite, rejuvenating the spirit and soul.

At MOD Pizza, the process of crafting a pizza becomes an expression of one's deepest culinary desires. The canvas of soft, golden dough lies waiting, ready to be adorned with a mosaic of toppings that range from the familiar to the exotic. Every pizza is a masterpiece, echoing individual dreams, memories, and tastes. It's a celebration of creativity and flavor, where every pie resonates with personal stories and joys.

When tradition meets passion, the result is i Fratelli Pizza. Every slice resonates with the rich history of a brotherhood committed to culinary excellence. The melding of flavors and the heartwarming aroma of baked dough are reminiscent of familial bonds, gatherings, and shared laughter. It's not just a pizza; it's a symbol of unity, of moments that bind families and friends in a circle of love and joy.

At Nutrition512, the path to wellness is paved with flavors. It's a sanctuary where health-conscious individuals find solace in dishes and drinks designed to nourish the body while delighting the palate. With every sip of their vibrant smoothies and each bite of their nutrient-rich meals, there's an assurance that wellness and taste have found a harmonious balance. It's a symphony of nourishment, where every note promises a healthier, brighter tomorrow.

Life, with its myriad colors and emotions, finds a reflection in the bowls at Blenders & Bowls. Each creation is a vibrant tapestry, weaving together fruits, seeds, and nuts in a dazzling display of nature's bounty. It's more than just a meal; it's an art form. Blenders & Bowls crafts a visual and gastronomic delight where the kaleidoscope of ingredients not only tantalizes the taste buds but also enchants the soul, invoking a celebration of life itself.

In Westlake, every dining destination is a journey, an exploration of flavors and emotions, an adventure that enriches the heart and soothes the soul.

Westlake has long been a beacon of educational excellence. This enclave in Austin, Texas not only offers its residents an unparalleled quality of life but also boasts some of the best educational institutions. With a strong emphasis on holistic development, the schools here prioritize academic proficiency and nurture creativity, leadership, and critical thinking. Families moving to Westlake can be assured that their children will have access to educational experiences that will mold them into well-rounded individuals ready to take on the world. The sense of community, combined with the schools' unwavering dedication to excellence, makes this a prime locale for families prioritizing top-tier education.

Westlake, with its captivating beauty and luxurious charm, is undeniably one of Texas' most sought-after addresses. This allure, however, does come with a distinct financial signature. Let’s elucidate the economic facets of calling this exquisite locale home:

Aspect	Description
Overview	Westlake certainly makes an impression, with its cost of living index soaring at 280.7. This score, when juxtaposed with the U.S. average of 100, truly underscores its upscale nature.
Housing	The majestic homes lining the boulevards of Westlake come with a hefty price tag. With the median home cost being a staggering $2,223,900, it dwarfs both Texas' median home value of $297,600 and the national median of $338,100. Additionally, those desiring to lease space should be prepared for upscale rates. A cozy one-bedroom apartment here might easily fetch $1,500 or more every month.
Groceries	While walking down the grocery aisles, residents will note a grocery index of 105.8. This is notably higher than Texas's 93.7 and marginally above the national norm of 100.
Healthcare	The residents of Westlake find solace in the fact that their healthcare costs resonate with the national average, indexed snugly at 101.6.
Utilities	With utility bills landing at an index of 98.8, Westlake matches nearly identically with the nation and stays just below Texas's 99.2 average.
Transportation	On the move? The transportation costs in Westlake harmonize closely with both Texas and the U.S. averages, charting at 103.4.
Miscellaneous Costs	Whether it's a dinner date at a ritzy restaurant or a shopping spree, the miscellaneous cost index for Westlake is 105.8. This places it comfortably above Texas's 83.2 and marginally higher than the national average.

Living in Westlake is undeniably a luxury, one that offers an unmatched blend of tranquility, elegance, and world-class amenities. While the cost of living here might be on the higher side, the unparalleled experiences and quality of life make every penny spent absolutely worth it.

In Austin's real estate arena, Cord Shiflet shines as a paragon of trust and excellence, with accolades spanning decades, a client list boasting industry titans and celebrities, and a heartfelt devotion to community. If you're contemplating diving into the Westlake, Austin, Texas, real estate market or simply have questions about the property landscape, contact Cord Shiflet Group today. Search Westlake homes for sale here.