Downtown Austin brims with energy and excitement, offering a vibrant atmosphere, a variety of activities, and many spots to explore and enjoy. Although it’s an excellent area to visit, buying a home there comes with challenges, including parking issues, a higher cost of living, and safety concerns.
Living just a few minutes farther away at Cloverleaf in South Austin offers the best of both worlds, letting you enjoy downtown Austin without the challenges of living there.
Shopping, Nature, and Close to Everything in South Austin
Living in South Austin gives you a peaceful escape from the city hustle and bustle, yet you’re just a short drive from downtown. It’s a perfect blend of tranquility and convenience that makes you feel like you’re in a whole different place.
When you choose a Brohn home in Cloverleaf, you’ll live in a prime South Austin location. It’s just a short drive to I-35 and close to popular shopping and dining options, like South Park Meadows Shopping Center, which is right across I-35 from Cloverleaf.
South Austin is known for its scenic views and outdoor activities, including the Barton Creek Greenbelt with 12 miles of natural settings to explore. Visitors enjoy hiking, biking, and rock climbing here, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Zilker Metropolitan Park is another favorite spot, ideal for families seeking a day outside to picnic, hike, or relax in the beautiful gardens.
Plus, Cloverleaf is just a quick 19-minute drive from Austin International Airport, making travel for work or leisure much easier. While the surrounding areas of Cloverleaf are impressive, the price and type of home you can afford in South Austin offer more home for your money than in downtown Austin.
Comparison Chart: Living in Cloverleaf (South Austin) vs. Downtown Austin
| FEATURE | CLOVERLEAF | DOWNTOWN AUSTIN |
| Home Type | New construction single-family homes | Primarily small condos or apartments |
| Priced Under $450k | Multiple new home options, starting in the $270s | Very limited availability |
| Bedrooms | 3+ bedrooms available | Typically, 1-2 bedrooms |
| Square Footage | Space, open-concept floor plans | Smaller layouts with limited storage |
| Outdoor Space | Private yard and landscaped outdoor areas | Little to no private outdoor space |
| HOA Costs | What are they for Cloverleaf? | High monthly HOA fees are common (over $750/month) |
| Parking | Private driveway and garage | Shared or limited parking |
| Home Age | Newly built homes with modern features | Often offers older buildings with outdated designs |
| Lifestyle Balance | A few miles to downtown with more space and comfort | Walkable, energetic, and fun, but typically more crowded |
| Views | Select homes with downtown skyline views | City views vary by building |
| Who It’s Best For | Buyers prioritizing homeownership, space, and value | Buyers prioritizing walkability over space and home equity |
Homes in South Austin Are More Affordable than Downtown
You’ll notice a big difference in how affordable homes are downtown compared to South Austin. In fact, the options are quite different—usually, for a budget of around $300k, you’ll find only one or two-bedroom high-rise apartment in the downtown area. That often means no yard and limited parking, which you’ll share with others.
With a budget of less than $300k, you can afford a thoughtfully designed new Brohn home at Cloverleaf, featuring contemporary architecture, a spacious floor plan, and a landscaped yard with a view of the Austin skyline. Located just minutes away from the refreshing waters of Barton Springs, exciting shopping on South Congress, and a variety of delicious city cuisine, this spot offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
While the South Austin area is perfect for those who love an active lifestyle, it also warmly welcomes families with fantastic school options.
Downtown Apartment Listing
1,288 sq.ft. | 3 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms | Shared Apartment Garage
Cloverleaf Two-Story New Home
2,051 sq.ft. | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 bathrooms | 2-Car Garage
Family-Friendly Community and Safety Come First in South Austin
Living in Cloverleaf appeals to growing families for its friendly atmosphere, and Cloverleaf is proud to be home to some of the best schools in the area, including Blazier Elementary School, Paredes Middle School, and Akins High School. Blazier Elementary School is proud of its excellent achievements in reading and math, showcasing the dedication and hard work of both students and staff.
Community prioritizes safety in Cloverleaf, with neighbors constantly watching out for each other’s homes, helping keep the neighborhood very safe. It’s safe to enjoy a relaxing evening stroll, whether with your furry family member or by yourself.
Why You Should Consider Living in Cloverleaf Over Downtown Austin
For many buyers, the real goal isn’t living in downtown Austin; it’s owning a home. This is something that can feel financially out of reach in the heart of the city. Cloverleaf offers a more attainable path to homeownership, with new homes in Austin starting in the $270s, select homes featuring views of the downtown skyline, and a variety of thoughtfully designed options to fit different lifestyles and budgets. With 22 floor plans and quick move in opportunities, our team of experts is here to guide you through the process and make owning a home feel achievable, not overwhelming. In our Cloverleaf community, you can stay connected to everything Austin has to offer while finally taking that meaningful step into homeownership.
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About Brohn Homes
Brohn Homes has been building thoughtfully designed homes across Texas for more than 20 years. Founded in Austin, we’re committed to making homeownership more attainable without compromising quality, comfort, or care. From intentional floor plans to inclusive pricing and lasting craftsmanship, we build more than just houses—we build places Texans are proud to call home.
Built for Texans. Backed by Heart.