Downtown Austin isn’t just one vibe. It’s a mix of micro-neighborhoods, each with its own rhythm, pace and personality. If you’re thinking about moving downtown, understanding what makes each neighborhood unique is key to finding the place that fits your lifestyle.
In this guide, we’re breaking down the four most sought-after residential downtown districts so you can confidently find the one that fits your lifestyle:
- Rainey Street Historic District
- Seaholm District
- 2nd Street / Warehouse District
- Red River Cultural District
We’ll cover what defines each neighborhood — where they’ve been, where they’re going, and what types of residential buildings and amenities you’ll find. Whether you’re a renter, a buyer or just mapping your options, this overview will help you make a confident choice.
Downtown Austin Neighborhood Comparison at a Glance
| Neighborhood | Housing Type | Grocery Access | Walkability | Notable Features |
| Rainey Street | High-rise condos and luxury apartments | Target & Whole Foods (East 5th) | High | Nightlife, lake and trail access, walkable to downtown, under 15 min to airport |
| Seaholm District | High- and mid-rise condos and apartments | Whole Foods (S. Lamar) and Trader Joe’s | High | Riverfront views, upscale fitness, dining, trail access |
| 2nd/Warehouse | High- and mid-rise condos and apartments | Whole Foods (S. Lamar) and Trader Joe’s (Seaholm) | High | Cultural and music venues, boutique shopping, many dining options, trail access |
| Red River District | Mid-rise apartments and newer high-rise buildings | Short drive to H-E-B, Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods | Medium | Music venues, more affordable options |
Rainey Street Historic District
Once a quiet stretch of Craftsman-style homes nestled along the lake, Rainey Street was rezoned for mixed-use development in 2005 — a change that sparked its rapid transformation. Initially, the area became known for its vibrant nightlife, with a mix of bars, food trucks and laid-back spots drawing crowds. Over the past two decades, Rainey has evolved into a high-rise-heavy, bustling corridor, blending modern high-rise developments with a dynamic selection of restaurants, bars and unparalleled access to Lady Bird Lake and the Hike & Bike Trail.
Residential Snapshot
- Type of Housing: Primarily modern high-rise condos and luxury apartment towers.
- Notable Buildings: Includes newer developments like Paseo, 700 River and The Modern, alongside established options such as The Quincy and 70 Rainey.
Where They Grocery Shop
- Target and Whole Foods on East 5th & I-35 (via scooter or quick drive)
- Whole Foods at 5th & Bowie (Seaholm)
Key Retailers & Amenities
- Lady Bird Lake access and the Hike & Bike Trail are steps away
- Dozens of bars, lounges and food trucks within walking distance, including Anthem, Banger’s, Bungalow and Clive
- Dining highlights like the Michelin-recognized Emmer & Rye and Geraldine’s
- Walkable to downtown core
- Under 15 minutes to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
Seaholm District
Seaholm started as a mid-century power plant that once supplied electricity to the city. After closing in the 1990s, the site sat unused until redevelopment efforts took hold in the 2010s. Today, it’s a master-planned district built around the restored plant building, offering a mix of modern condos and apartments, curated retail and riverfront views. It’s downtown’s cleanest blend of industrial heritage and modern design.
Residential Snapshot
- Type of Housing: Features a mix of high-rise and mid-rise luxury condominiums and apartments.
- Notable Buildings: Includes Gables Park Tower and Gables Park Plaza, Elle West Ave, and The Monarch, with Seaholm Residences and The Independent (“Jenga Tower”).
Where They Grocery Shop
- Trader Joe’s (inside the district)
- Whole Foods (5th & Lamar)
Key Retailers & Amenities
- Access to Lady Bird Lake, Shoal Creek Trail and Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge
- Groceries and essentials available at Trader Joe’s and nearby Whole Foods Market (5th & Lamar)
- Dining and dessert at Ember Kitchen, True Food Kitchen and Baked Bear
- Coffee at Manana and Merit
- Fitness studios like CorePower Yoga and barre3
2nd Street & Warehouse District
Once dominated by underused warehouses and service buildings, the 2nd Street/Warehouse District began evolving in the early 2000s through a city-led push to create a more walkable, cultural downtown. That effort took off with key public-private projects — most notably the Moody Theater in 2011, which brought “Austin City Limits” into the heart of the city. Today, what was once industrial is now polished and creative, with modern condos and apartments, live music venues, restaurants and boutique shopping woven into the district’s street grid.
Residential Snapshot
- Type of Housing: High-rise and mid-rise luxury apartment buildings and condos
- Notable Buildings: Includes new projects such as Hanover Republic Square and Gables Republic Square, alongside well-established residences like AMLI Downtown and AMLI on 2nd.
Where They Grocery Shop
- Whole Foods Flagship (just northwest)
- Trader Joe’s (Seaholm)
Key Retailers & Amenities
- Cultural attractions like ACL Live at Moody Theater, Ballet Austin, and Violet Crown Cinema
- Boutique shopping at Eliza Page and Estilo, plus other independent retailers
- Walkable to Congress Avenue and Lady Bird Lake
- Dining like ATX Cocina, Local Foods, Lamberts, Uchibā, The Well, Jo’s Coffee and more
- Fitness options include Barry’s Bootcamp, Orangetheory, RIDE and [solidcore]
Red River Cultural District
Red River is one of the last holdouts of Austin’s original music scene. Known for iconic venues like Stubb’s and Mohawk, the district has long been defined by live shows, late nights, and a raw creative edge. But it’s changing. A mix of new zoning and downtown growth has brought in more housing, mostly mid-rise, and a slow shift in the neighborhood’s character.
Residential Snapshot
- Type of Housing: High-rise and mid-rise luxury condos and apartment buildings
- Notable Buildings: Includes Alexan Waterloo and The Waller, with additional options like The Beverly offering modern amenities just outside the district’s core.
Where They Grocery Shop
- Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods and larger stores like H-E-B are a short drive away
Key Retailers & Amenities
- Live music at Stubb’s, Empire Control Room, Mohawk and more
- Dining options Pelóns Tex-Mex, Vaquero Taquero, and Hoboken Pie
- Street art, murals, local cafes
- Fewer chain retailers, more DIY and independent options
Whether you’re drawn to the energy of Rainey Street, the polish of Seaholm, the culture of 2nd Street or the creative pulse of Red River, each neighborhood offers its own version of the downtown experience.
If you’re deciding whether this part of the city is right for you, the answer depends on what matters most: walkability, community, views, quiet, culture — or all of the above. And now that you know what to expect from the lifestyle and the cost, you’re in a better position to choose where you’ll feel most at home.
If you want to learn more or have any questions about downtown Austin living, contact our leasing team!
Jordyn Brown
Jordyn is a regular contributing author for Paseo, covering leasing tips and all things downtown Austin. In her free time, you'll find Jordyn on a run, trying out new activities, or spending time with her dog, Fletcher.
June 19, 2025