Welcome to Georgetown, Texas, a charming city nestled in the heart of the Lone Star State! If you're thinking about relocating to Georgetown, you're in for a treat – its unique combination of small-town charm, convenient location, and vibrant culture make it an ideal place to call home. This comprehensive guide will help you explore everything Georgetown has to offer, from educational and employment opportunities to the top local attractions.
Getting to Know Georgetown
Location and Geography
Georgetown is conveniently located just 30 miles north of Austin, Texas. This prime location provides easy access to all the job opportunities and entertainment the capital city offers while still allowing residents to take advantage of the relatively lower cost of living and housing costs in Georgetown – not to mention the traffic! And because Georgetown sits on the banks of the San Gabriel River’s north and middle forks, it also boasts beautiful Texas Hill Country terrain, providing the perfect natural backdrop to compliment the slower and more peaceful pace of daily life.
History and Heritage
Georgetown is a city steeped in history, from its early cattle-town pioneering days to the economic boom that came with the introduction of the railroads in the early 20th century. Today, much of the city’s history is still plain to see thanks to extensive preservation and restoration efforts, leading to Georgetown being nationally designated the first Main Street City in Texas.
Take a stroll through the historic downtown area and admire beautifully preserved Texas-Victorian architecture, including the “pattern-book” homes like the Burkland-Frisk home and the stunning Beaux-Arts styling of the Williamson County Courthouse - a true testament to the city's historical significance. Georgetown is also home to the Williamson Museum, which hosts an extensive collection of rotating exhibits, events, and educational programs.
Climate and Weather
Like most of Central Texas, the weather in Georgetown is characterized by long, warm summers and short, mild winters thanks to its relatively dry, subtropical climate. You’ll appreciate the abundant sunshine, which makes outdoor activities a year-round option – if you enjoy being out on the water, Lake Georgetown offers ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water sports, along with plenty of hiking trails and camping spots.
Housing Market
Overview of the Housing Market
Georgetown's real estate market is robust, offering a diverse range of housing options, from cozy apartments and townhomes to spacious estate-style single-family homes. The city's real estate market is known for its stability and resilience even during periods of economic downturn, making a home in Georgetown an attractive proposition for buyers who are concerned about the risk of their home’s value depreciating over time.
Safety and Security
With a violent crime rate more than 62% lower than the national average, Georgetown is ranked one of the safest cities in Texas, and among the safest in the country. The city's police and emergency services are known for being responsive and reliable, ensuring the safety and security of its residents.
Educational Opportunities
Georgetown ISD
Georgetown Independent School District is the primary school district in the area. It's known for its excellent educational programs, dedicated teachers, and top-rated schools, with access to a rich variety of extracurricular activities and community events to facilitate learning both inside and outside the classroom.
Private and Charter Schools
In addition to public schools, Georgetown offers a selection of private and charter school options to meet the diverse educational needs of its residents.
Higher Education Institutions
Georgetown is home to Southwestern University, recently named one of the best undergraduate schools in the country by The Princeton Review. For more extensive educational opportunities, the city's proximity to Austin provides access to multiple, highly-ranked colleges and universities.
Employment and Job Market
Top Employers
Georgetown is home to several significant employers in fields ranging from healthcare to hospitality. Some of the largest employers in Georgetown include Caring Home Health, St. David’s Hospital, GAF Energy, Southwestern University, and The Wesleyan.
Major Industries in Georgetown
Key industries in Georgetown include healthcare, education, manufacturing, professional services, and technology. The city's diversification helps support a robust job market – according to the most recent economic development workforce analysis, job growth over the past decade has seen steady improvement, nearly doubling the national average during that period.
Lifestyle and Recreation
Parks and Green Spaces
Georgetown boasts an array of parks, trails, and green spaces. San Gabriel Park and Blue Hole Park, in particular, are favorites among locals, featuring the scenic San Gabriel River, picnic areas, and playgrounds. Lake Georgetown is also the ideal spot to take a dip or go paddleboarding on those sunny summer days. If you’re looking for a truly unique outdoor experience, don’t miss Inner Space Cavern, one of the most impressive and well-preserved cave systems in the US.
Dining and Culinary Scene
The city's culinary scene is diverse, offering everything from Tex-Mex to international cuisine. Whether you’re looking for unique local eateries like the Blue Corn Harvest Bar and Grill, intimate cafes, or casual dining favorites like Longhorn Steakhouse, there are plenty of places to satisfy even the pickiest palates.
Arts and Culture
Georgetown takes pride in its arts and cultural scene, hosting numerous events, art galleries, and theaters. Whether it’s catching a show at the Georgetown Palace Theatre, catching a live concert, or checking out the murals and public exhibits in the city’s designated cultural district, there’s always something happening in Georgetown!
Local Events and Festivals
Georgetown hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year. The Annual Red Poppy Festival is always a crowd-pleaser, and the South Main Art Festival lets residents get in touch with their inner artist. There are also plenty of smaller events that pop up throughout the year, including live music shows at the library and holiday-themed events.
Shopping and Retail
Georgetown’s historic downtown district features a variety of local boutique stores and markets, while major retail outlets like the Wolf Ranch Town Center and Round Rock Premium Outlet Mall offer even more opportunities for a bit of retail therapy. Whether you're searching for antiques, clothing, or unique gifts, Georgetown has you covered.
Healthcare and Wellness
Healthcare and Medical Services
Georgetown offers a range of healthcare facilities, including St. David's Georgetown Hospital, which boasts a Level IV trauma center, Certified Primary Stroke Center, and Certified Chest Pain Center. There are also various in-patient and out-patient medical clinics such as Baylor Scott & White Clinic, ensuring that Georgetown residents receive top-notch medical care.
Discover Riverstone: Georgetown’s Hidden Gem
Georgetown, Texas, offers a welcoming environment for individuals and families looking to relocate, and once you’ve taken the time to explore the city, it won't be long before Georgetown truly feels like home. Whether you're drawn to the vibrant downtown, peaceful suburban neighborhoods, or plethora outdoor activities, this city has something for everyone.
If you’re ready to experience the best that Georgetown has to offer, Giddens Homes invites you to explore our newest community, Riverstone. Tucked away in the hills north of the San Gabriel River’s south fork, this community gives you access to all the conveniences you need while keeping you close to the area's top employers, schools, and recreation. Contact us today to learn more about our available move-in ready homes or to schedule a personalized tour of the community – we can’t wait to welcome you to Georgetown!