Summary
Parker Lane is a quiet suburban neighborhood nestled east of I-35, north of Hwy. 71, and south of Oltorf St. Its proximity to three major local thoroughfares and public bus lines means commuting to other parts of the city is relatively easy and accessible.
The neighborhood itself is nondescript by Austin standards; there are no popular restaurants, shopping, or nightlife options in the immediate area. Housing is low cost here. That, and the proximity to St. Edwards University lead many students to seek temporary housing in this neighborhood. There are also young professionals and retirees.
Features
Parker Lane is a residential community bordered by three major local highways and thoroughfares. While the edges of the neighborhood can be noisy from traffic, the interior is quiet with tree-lined streets and one- and two-story houses. The neighborhood’s location east of I-35 diminishes its reputation somewhat, but the area is relatively safe compared to some other east Austin neighborhoods.
The neighborhood is almost entirely residential, but there are some service stations, motels, liquor stores, and low-cost restaurants along the borders of the neighborhood, particularly along Oltorf St.
The neighborhood is somewhat lacking in walkable green space. But a centerpiece of Parker Lane is Mabel Davis District Park, a 50-acre park containing a covered picnic area, a playground, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, basketball courts, and a well-designed skate park. The skate park was one of the first in the city and attracts skate enthusiasts from all over the area.
Until the 1950s, the park’s location was used by the city of Austin as a landfill. In the 1970s, it was closed, cleaned up and opened to the public. Subsequently the park had to be closed and renovated by the city, and was reopened in the early 2000s.
Housing in the neighborhood is relatively low cost. A modest-sized home runs in the low $100K range, while a larger, renovated one can run up to $300K. The low housing cost and easy access to downtown, south Austin, St. Edwards University, and the University of Texas brings many students to live here. It also attracts some younger singles and families, and retirees.
Mabel Davis District ParkViews From the Street
| Glen Springs Way | Burleson Ct. | Reeves Cir. |
| Santa Monica Dr. | Allison Dr. | Rockbridge Ter. |
| Burleson Rd. | Ventura Dr. |
Facts and Figures
Neighborhood ProfileCommunity Information
ShoppingReal Estate and Apartments
Parker Lane has mostly two- and three-bedroom homes built in the 1970s and 80s. Home prices average in the mid-$100K range.
Parker Lane, Austin, Texas
Zip code: 78741