Round Rock or Georgetown? It's one of the most common questions I get from buyers moving north of Austin. The two cities sit right next to each other on I-35, but they feel different, cost different amounts, and fit different lifestyles. Here's my side-by-side.
The quick comparison
| Round Rock | Georgetown | |
|---|---|---|
| Feel | Established suburb, busy and convenient | Historic small-town square, more spread out |
| Commute to north Austin | About 20 to 30 minutes | About 30 to 45 minutes |
| Main school district | Round Rock ISD: B (89) in 2026 | Georgetown ISD: B (80) in 2026 |
| 2025 school tax rate | $0.8931 per $100 (RRISD) | $1.0506 per $100 (GISD) |
| Big draws | Dell HQ, Kalahari, Dell Diamond, outlet malls | The Square, Blue Hole, San Gabriel River trails, Sun City |
| Housing | More resale, denser existing neighborhoods | More new construction and acreage options |
School ratings are from the Texas Education Agency (August 2026). Tax rates are 2025 adopted rates; 2026 rates are being finalized after both districts' November 2026 tax rate elections failed, according to unofficial results. Rates and zoning vary by address.
Home prices
In 2026, median sale prices in both cities have mostly landed between about $400,000 and $450,000, depending on the month. Williamson County as a whole came in at $395,000 in September 2026, according to Unlock MLS. Georgetown's median often runs a bit higher because of Sun City and its newer luxury neighborhoods, while Round Rock has a deeper supply of established resale homes. For the latest numbers, see my monthly market reports.
Property taxes
The biggest difference is the school district. Round Rock ISD has one of the lower school tax rates in Williamson County, while Georgetown ISD's rate is higher. On the city side, Georgetown says its rate is one of the lowest in the Austin metro for cities over 20,000. Many newer neighborhoods in both cities also have a MUD or PID, which can matter more than either of those. Here's how MUD and PID taxes work.
Schools
Both districts earned a B in 2026. Round Rock ISD scored higher (89 vs. 80), but Georgetown ISD made the bigger jump, up from a C. Remember that a Round Rock or Georgetown address doesn't guarantee that district. Read my school district guide before you narrow your search.
Lifestyle
Round Rock is all about convenience: shopping at La Frontera and the Premium Outlets, Round Rock Express games at the Dell Diamond, Kalahari, and fast access to north Austin and the Domain. Downtown Round Rock has a growing restaurant scene too.
Georgetown is known for its historic courthouse square, Southwestern University, the Blue Hole swimming spot and miles of trails along the San Gabriel River. It also has Sun City, one of the largest 55+ communities in the country.
Which one fits you?
- Choose Round Rock if commute time, a lower school tax rate and established neighborhoods are your top priorities.
- Choose Georgetown if you want small-town character, newer construction, more land or a 55+ community, and you don't mind a longer drive south.
- Consider Hutto too if value and new construction are at the top of your list. See my Hutto neighborhood guide.
Still can't decide?
I'll set up a tour day that hits both cities so you can feel the difference in person. Call or text me at (512) 629-9050, or book a quick call.
Market, tax and school data change often. Verify current figures for any specific property before you buy.
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