Round Rock has experienced remarkable growth and development over recent decades, evolving from a quiet suburb into a self-contained city with its own identity. With approximately 125,000 residents as of 2024, it continues to rank among the fastest-growing mid-sized cities in America.
The city’s development has been carefully managed through strategic planning that balances economic expansion with quality-of-life priorities. Round Rock’s motto, “The Sports Capital of Texas,” reflects its commitment to recreational opportunities, while its thriving business sector and top-rated schools create a well-rounded community that appeals to families, professionals, and businesses alike.
Quality of Life
Housing and Cost of Living
Round Rock offers diverse housing options spanning historic neighborhoods near downtown to modern master-planned communities throughout the city. The median home price as of early 2025 sits at approximately $420,000, representing good value compared to many Austin neighborhoods while still providing excellent amenities and location.
Housing styles range from charming bungalows to contemporary single-family homes, townhouses, and luxury apartments. While property taxes remain relatively high (common throughout Texas), residents benefit from no state income tax and utility costs that compare favorably to national averages.
Education and Schools
Round Rock Independent School District serves most city residents and consistently ranks among the top districts in Texas. The district operates numerous highly-rated elementary, middle, and high schools with comprehensive academic and extracurricular programs. Some neighborhoods in eastern Round Rock fall within the Pflugerville Independent School District, which also maintains strong educational standards.
Higher education opportunities abound with Texas State University’s Round Rock campus, Austin Community College’s Round Rock campus, and Texas A&M Health Science Center’s medical school providing local options for continued education and professional development.
Healthcare Facilities
Round Rock residents enjoy exceptional healthcare access centered around the St. David’s Round Rock Medical Center, a 171-bed acute care facility offering comprehensive services including emergency care, heart and vascular services, women’s health, and a Level II Trauma Center.
Baylor Scott & White Health operates a significant presence with multiple facilities throughout the city. Numerous specialty clinics, urgent care centers, and medical offices ensure residents can receive quality healthcare without leaving the community.
Safety and Crime Rates
Round Rock consistently ranks as one of the safest cities of its size in Texas and nationwide. The Round Rock Police Department emphasizes community-oriented policing and proactive crime prevention strategies, contributing to crime rates significantly below national averages.
The city’s investments in public safety infrastructure, training, and personnel have helped maintain this excellent safety record even as the population has grown substantially.
Employment Opportunities
Job Market Growth
Round Rock’s economic development strategy has successfully attracted major employers across multiple industries, creating a diverse and resilient job market. The city’s pro-business climate, strategic location, and skilled workforce continue to draw corporate investment and expansion.
The unemployment rate typically remains below both state and national averages, with strong job growth projected to continue in healthcare, technology, manufacturing, and retail sectors.
Top Employers
Major employers within Round Rock include:
- Dell Technologies (global headquarters with approximately 13,000 employees)
- Round Rock Independent School District
- Emerson Automation Solutions
- Ascension Seton Williamson Hospital
- St. David’s Round Rock Medical Center
- Amazon distribution center
- Kalahari Resorts & Conventions
- City of Round Rock
The city’s economic development programs continue to attract and retain businesses, creating additional employment opportunities that allow many residents to work and live within the community.
Recreation and Leisure
Parks and Outdoor Activities
Round Rock maintains an extensive parks system with over 30 developed parks encompassing more than 1,800 acres. Notable outdoor spaces include:
- Old Settlers Park featuring a 645-acre sports complex with baseball fields, soccer fields, and festival areas
- Rock’N River Water Park offering family-friendly aquatic recreation
- Round Rock Memorial Park near downtown with historic features
- Play for All Abilities Park providing accessible recreation for children of all abilities
- Brushy Creek Regional Trail connecting multiple parks with over 7 miles of hiking and biking paths
The city’s commitment to parkland and green space has earned it recognition for excellent recreational opportunities that serve residents of all ages and abilities.
Shopping and Dining
The retail landscape in Round Rock features multiple shopping destinations:
- Round Rock Premium Outlets with over 125 designer and name-brand stores
- La Frontera Shopping Center
- University Oaks Shopping Center
- Round Rock Crossing
- Downtown Round Rock’s boutique shops and specialty stores
The dining scene offers impressive variety, from Texas barbecue and authentic international cuisines to upscale establishments and craft breweries. Local favorites include Salt Lick BBQ, Hoody’s Sub Shop, Round Rock Donuts (famous for its oversized Texas-sized donut), and numerous chef-driven restaurants that have established Round Rock as a dining destination in its own right.
Arts and Culture
Cultural amenities in Round Rock include the Round Rock Public Library, the Allen R. Baca Center, the Round Rock Leader building, and various community venues that host concerts, art exhibitions, and cultural events throughout the year.
The city maintains a robust calendar of cultural events including Music on Main Street, Chalk Walk Festival, and the Juneteenth Festival. The historic downtown area preserves the city’s heritage while offering modern entertainment options, creating a vibrant cultural scene.
Transportation and Accessibility
Public Transportation
While Round Rock primarily serves residents who rely on personal vehicles, the city operates its own service called Round Rock Rides, providing rideshare services within the city. Most residents drive for daily transportation.
Major Highways and Roadways
Round Rock benefits from excellent transportation infrastructure including:
- Interstate 35 (primary north-south artery)
- SH 45 toll road (east-west connector)
- US Highway 79 (east-west corridor)
- FM 1431/University Boulevard
- SH 130 toll road (eastern bypass around Austin)
These thoroughfares provide convenient access to Austin, Georgetown, Cedar Park, and other surrounding communities, with typical commute times to downtown Austin ranging from 25-45 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
Community and Lifestyle
Demographics and Diversity
Round Rock’s population reflects growing diversity with a mix of young families, professionals, and established residents. The median age is approximately 35 years, with a significant percentage of households including children under 18.
The community has seen increasing cultural diversity in recent years, contributing to its vibrant character and expanded cultural offerings. Educational attainment is high, with over 43% of adults holding bachelor’s degrees or higher, creating a well-educated population base.
Local Events and Social Scene
Community engagement thrives through year-round events including:
- Round Rock Express baseball games (Triple-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers)
- Frontier Days Celebration highlighting the city’s heritage
- July 4th Sertoma Parade and Frontier Days Festival
- Hometown Holiday Festival and Christmas Family Night
- Taste of Round Rock showcasing local restaurants
- Sports tournaments at the city’s premier athletic facilities
These events foster strong community connections and provide entertainment options for residents of all ages.
Climate and Weather
Round Rock enjoys the same pleasant Central Texas climate as the greater Austin area, with approximately 232 sunny days annually. Summers bring warm temperatures averaging in the mid-90s from June through September, while winters remain mild with average lows in the 40s.
The area receives about 35 inches of rainfall per year, primarily during spring and fall. Occasional summer thunderstorms provide relief from the heat, while winters typically remain brief and mild compared to northern states.
Pros and Cons of Living in Round Rock
Advantages
- Strong local economy anchored by major employers like Dell Technologies
- Excellent public schools and educational options
- Comprehensive parks system and recreational facilities
- Lower housing costs compared to central Austin
- Well-developed retail and dining scene
- Consistently low crime rates and strong public safety services
- Strategic location with good highway access to Austin and surrounding areas
- Lower property tax rate than some neighboring communities
Challenges
- Traffic congestion on Interstate 35 during peak commute hours
- Limited public transportation options
- Rapid growth leading to ongoing construction and development
- Summer heat waves and occasional drought conditions
- Some areas further from downtown Austin mean longer commutes for workers
- Water conservation restrictions during dry periods
Round Rock continues to rank among the most desirable mid-sized cities in Texas, offering residents a well-balanced community with excellent amenities, strong schools, abundant recreation, and a thriving economy that provides both stability and opportunity.