Georgetown and Leander are both fast-growing Williamson County cities north of Austin, but they sit on opposite sides of the county and attract different buyers. Here's my comparison.
Side by side
| Georgetown | Leander | |
|---|---|---|
| Location | North on I-35, about 28 miles from Austin | Northwest on US-183 and 183A |
| Main school district | Georgetown ISD: B (80) in 2026 | Leander ISD: B (87) in 2026 |
| 2026-27 school tax rate | $1.0206 per $100 | $1.0869 per $100 |
| City tax rate | $0.363 per $100 (FY 2026-27) | About $0.417 per $100 |
| Getting to Austin | I-35 or SH-130 toll road | 183A toll road or the MetroRail Red Line |
| Known for | Historic Square, San Gabriel River trails, Sun City | Hill Country views, Crystal Falls, newer master-planned communities |
School ratings are from the Texas Education Agency (August 2026). School tax rates are the 2026-27 rates that apply after both districts' November 2026 tax rate elections failed, according to unofficial results. City rates are as adopted or proposed for 2026-27. Verify for any specific address.
Home prices
Both cities have medians roughly in the low-to-mid $400,000s in 2026, but the mix is different. Leander has lots of newer two-story homes in master-planned communities like Crystal Falls, Travisso and Bryson. Georgetown has everything from historic homes near the Square to new construction in Wolf Ranch and the 55+ homes of Sun City. For current numbers, see my market reports.
Commute
If you work in northwest Austin, Cedar Park or near the Apple campus, Leander usually wins. It also has the northern end of the MetroRail Red Line, the only commuter rail in the area. If you work in Round Rock, Georgetown or along I-35, Georgetown is usually easier.
Schools
Leander ISD scored higher in 2026 (87 vs. 80), but Georgetown ISD made the bigger jump, up from a C. Some Leander addresses are zoned to Liberty Hill ISD, and some Georgetown addresses are zoned to Jarrell, Liberty Hill or Leander ISD, so always check the specific home. See my school guide.
Which one fits you?
- Choose Georgetown if you want small-town character, a walkable historic downtown, a lower city tax rate or a 55+ community.
- Choose Leander if you want Hill Country scenery, newer master-planned neighborhoods and an easier drive to northwest Austin.
Also comparing Round Rock? Read Round Rock vs Georgetown. And check any new neighborhood for a MUD or PID with my tax guide.
Can't decide between them?
I'll plan a tour day through both cities so you can feel the difference. Call or text me at (512) 629-9050, or book a quick call.
Prices, tax rates and school ratings change. Verify current figures for any specific address before you buy. This is general information, not tax or legal advice.
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