Why 78748 Might Be the Most Underrated Zip Code in South Austin
If zip codes had personalities, 78748 would be the quietly confident one in the room. Not flashy. Not loud. Just sitting there being wildly practical while everyone else fights over bragging rights.
78748 is a big zip code. Like, “you could live in it for years and still be discovering new pockets” big.
It stretches north to Davis Lane (which turns into Dittmar), south past Slaughter all the way to 1626 and even includes Estancia down by the I-35 corridor. It runs east to I-35 and west toward Brodie and Mopac. Translation: it covers a lot of South Austin real estate personality.
And inside that footprint lives an impressive lineup of neighborhoods:
Cherry Creek (which also spills into 78745)
Castlewood Forest
Tanglewood Forest
Bauerle Ranch
Olympic Heights
Rancho Alto
Buckingham Estates
Sage Meadows
Blackhawk
Southpark Meadows
San Leanna
Stablewood at Slaughter Creek
…and a whole bunch more
It’s one of the most diverse zip codes in South Austin in terms of price, home style, and vibe. You can find everything from entry-level starter homes to larger, more custom-feeling properties without ever leaving the same five digits.
The Sweet Spot for Value
Some of the higher-end pockets in 78748 include Castlewood Forest, parts of Cherry Creek, and Bauerle Ranch. These neighborhoods offer larger homes, mature trees, and that “this feels established” energy people love.
One of the reasons 78748 remains more affordable than nearby zip codes like 78749 is school ratings. GreatSchools doesn’t rate many of the schools here quite as high as those just a few minutes north. That difference alone keeps pricing more reasonable, even though the homes, neighborhoods, and lifestyle are often very comparable.
And that’s exactly why 78748 is such a great opportunity.
If you are looking for a deal in South Austin, this zip code deserves a hard look.
Over the last decade, many of these neighborhoods have shifted to being more owner-occupied. That matters. Pride of ownership shows up in lawns, renovations, and long-term stability. Values have steadily risen because people are choosing to stay, not just pass through.
The Starter Home Capital of South Austin
If South Austin had a “best place to start” award, 78748 would be in the finals every year.
It offers:
More affordable price points
Solid, well-kept neighborhoods
Great access to major roads and shopping
A wide range of home styles and sizes
Real appreciation potential
It’s the kind of zip code that lets buyers get into South Austin without feeling like they’re making a financial daredevil jump.
78748 may not get the same attention as some of its neighbors, but that’s part of what makes it so powerful. It’s quietly doing what smart real estate does best.
Providing opportunity.
