Summary
Govalle is a low-income, ethnic neighborhood in east Austin. While it has its share of east Austin crime and economic problems, the residents take pride in their neighborhood and its location close to downtown, Lady Bird Lake, and several parks may make it attractive for more, younger professionals and families to move here.
The neighborhood is slowly in transition as newer, more expensive homes are being built. Meanwhile, the neighborhood is known for inexpensive housing, casual Mexican restaurants, and artists. Ballet East, a couple of theater companies, and some live music venues are located here.
Features
With median income 25 percent below city average, Govalle has some rundown areas and some nicer sections. Although it suffers from the east Austin reputation of being crime-ridden and unsavory, Govalle is benefiting from the gradual improvement in east Austin with higher-end housing being built here. But it remains a low-cost area to live, with most housing prices in the mid-$100K range.
The population is largely Hispanic and residents form a vibrant, close-knit community. The neighborhood is a short distance from downtown and the University of Texas, and public bus lines are readily accessible. The south side is heavily industrialized, with commercial and industrial building and warehouses. The rest of the neighborhood is residential.
There are several parks in the area including Govalle Park, Rosewood Park, and Metz Park and Recreation Center; and the largest, 326-acre Roy G. Guerrero Park. Because of the low housing costs, many artists have taken up residence here. Some of the former warehouses have been transformed into art studios. The annual East Austin Studio Tour in November enables the public to view, and purchase, works by hundreds of local artists.
Ballet East, with a strong Latin influence, and Creative Action and Rude Mechanicals theater company are also in the neighborhood. These have community outreach programs, enabling local children to learn and explore dramatic arts. Austin Community College has a campus in the area, and there are several schools, emphasizing the arts.
Views From the Street
| Govalle Ave. | Kay St. | Fiesta St. |
| Gunter St. | Cherico St. | Govalle Elementary School |
| Linden St. and Lyons Rd. | Tillery St. |
Facts and Figures
Community Information
ShoppingReal Estate and Apartments
Govalle has mostly two- and three-bedroom homes built in the 1950s, with some built as early as the 1930s and others as late as the 1980s. Home prices have been trending upward. Some houses can be found in the mid-$100K range, while newer homes are priced in the mid-$300K range.
Govalle, Austin, Texas
Zip code: 78702