Welcome to Brentwood, Austin
Brentwood started as dairy farm land on the outskirts of Austin. After World War II, returning GIs bought homes here to start families and build a community. Today this post war bungalow neighborhood in Central Austin is one of the most sought after parts of town, right alongside Allandale and Rosedale.
From the Edge of Town to Central Austin Living
As Austin grew and the municipal airport moved out to ABIA, the low flying planes over Brentwood disappeared and the neighborhood became true central living. Many new owners are expanding these original homes to fit their families and modern lifestyles, and over the last few years I’ve watched a lot of small, neglected houses make way for brand new construction. The mix of classic bungalows and thoughtful new builds is a big part of Brentwood’s character today.
Brentwood History, Brentwood Park and Arroyo Seco
The City of Austin annexed most of the neighborhood in 1946, and in 1951 it purchased the land next to Brentwood Elementary to create Brentwood Park. Running through the heart of the neighborhood is Arroyo Seco, a tree lined street that follows the creek it’s named after. It’s one of my favorite streets in Austin.
Brentwood Schools
Living here, I see parents walking and biking with their kids to Brentwood Elementary every morning along the winding Arroyo Seco. Lamar Middle School is close by on Burnet Road near 2222, and McCallum High School sits just south of the neighborhood. In the fall, neighbors on the south side can hear the McCallum band practicing outside the newer fine arts building in the mornings.
Shopping and Everyday Conveniences
Brentwood residents have everything they need close to home, from the Crestview Shopping Center to the restaurants and shops at The Triangle, which keeps growing. Add in all the great spots along Burnet Road and you rarely have to drive far for anything.
A Neighborhood That Feels Like Community
Whether you’re in an original bungalow or a brand new home, the friendly atmosphere and sense of community are what make Brentwood special. The neighborhood association works hard to protect that charm. Every Christmas, residents line Arroyo Seco with luminarias along the creek, filling the street with warm light. There are festivals in the park, art shows, and picnics throughout the year, and neighbors even came together to build the Wall of Welcome, a mosaic created by dedicated residents.
If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home in Brentwood, I’d love to help. This neighborhood has been home for a long time, and I know it street by street.