Living in Buda, Texas

Buda sits just 15 miles south of downtown Austin. It's managed to hold onto a quieter, small-town atmosphere even as it’s grown rapidly over the past decade. Known for its historic Main Street and the annual festivals on Main that turn out the whole community, Buda offers a close-knit town with quick-ish access (beware the work commute) to Austin’s job market and cultural life.

Growth has brought new neighborhoods and schools but the city has been deliberate about protecting its parks and open spaces. That balance makes Buda appealing to families and anyone looking for a little breathing room without giving up big-city access.

Life in Buda moves at a more relaxed pace than Austin, but you’re still close enough to enjoy live music and nightlife whenever you've got the itch. Locals are proud of the city’s outdoor lifestyle options, including the hike-and-bike trails at Stagecoach Park and the fishing spots at Bradfield Village Park.

Buda has a calendar full of community events — from the nationally recognized Wiener Dog Races to holiday parades — that help foster a sense of belonging. Newer shopping and dining options are popping up along I-35, but you can still find locally owned businesses and family-run restaurants downtown.

We highly recommend visiting Buda and staying in the community at a VRBO instead of a hotel to get a feel for what it's like to live among the locals. You can also receive discounted fares on travel through our partnership with Expedia.

Plenty of locals commute north to Austin, south to San Marcos, or farther to major employers along the I-35 corridor. Plenty will also warn you about the traffic on 35, so factor that into your search. Remote work has also made Buda more attractive, allowing professionals to enjoy more space and lower housing costs than in Austin proper while still having easy access to the city when needed.

Within Buda itself, retail, healthcare, education, and construction provide the most local jobs. The city’s location between Austin and San Antonio also positions it well for continued economic growth.