If you buy through our links, we may earn money from affiliate partners. Learn more.
Airbnb
- Austin, Texas is known for its laid-back vibe, awesome food and music scene, and outdoor attractions.
- From bungalows in historic neighborhoods to sleek lofts, we found top-rated Airbnbs across the city.
- These exceptional Austin Airbnbs are all affordable and range from $87 to $194 per night to start.
While it’s the capital of Texas and the seat of state government, Austin is best known as the Live Music Capital of the World, home to more live music venues per capita than any other city in the nation. Music is typically one of the biggest draws for Austin visitors, especially in March.
In non-pandemic times, hundreds of thousands of people descend on the city for the massive South by Southwest (SXSW) festival, with more than 2,000 international acts. While SXSW is still happening this year, it will be an online event, with virtual speakers, film screenings, and showcases.
Beyond music, Austin is also a serious foodie destination, where barbecue, Tex-Mex, and tacos have been elevated to an art form. Natural jewels like Zilker Park, Barton Springs, and Ladybird Lake provide many opportunities to explore the outdoors. And, of course, there’s the city’s bohemian streak – best summed up by its famous moniker, “Keep Austin Weird.” You’ll find the offbeat everywhere, whether it’s a drink at the legendary circus-themed Carousel Lounge or a stop at the famous Bat Bridge, where a million roosting bats take flight come dusk.
While any lodging options have inherent risk amid the coronavirus pandemic, experts and the CDC have noted that private vacation rentals like Airbnbs are safer alternatives to traditional hotels. Rental properties greatly minimize, or in many cases, entirely eliminate, contact among people outside your pod. Additionally, Airbnb has enforced strict new Enhanced Clean protocols hosts must follow.
Be aware that even with the increasing availability of coronavirus vaccines, there’s still no guarantee of safety when it comes to travel right now. We always recommend following guidelines from the CDC and WHO, wearing a mask in public spaces, washing hands frequently, and practicing social distancing. This is especially true in Texas, where the governor recently lifted the statewide mask mandate and announced that businesses can now operate at full capacity.
With that in mind, spring is a great time to visit Austin and take advantage of the temperate climate and wildflowers blooming all over the city.
We selected the best Airbnbs in Austin based on the following criteria:
- We only included entire homes or standalone guesthouses with private entrances, per current expert recommendations.
- Every listing is highly-rated with a 4.61 score or higher and excellent recent guest reviews. Several are coveted Plus listings.
- We’ve chosen a range of rentals to suit different types of travelers, from couples to families to pet-owners, and kept affordability in mind, with price points starting between $87 and $194 (though rates can soar during popular events).
- Properties are well-appointed with appealing design touches and onsite amenities, and all are close to top attractions.
Here are the best Airbnbs in Austin, sorted by price from low to high.
Airbnb
Book this vintage guesthouse starting at $87 per night
In the past five years, East Austin has emerged as one of the city’s coolest neighborhoods. Art galleries, boutiques, craft cocktail bars, taquerias, and food trucks have popped up all over this former working-class district, whose leafy residential streets are lined with quaint, refurbished bungalows.
The backyard setting of this East Austin guesthouse is wonderfully quiet, yet it’s within easy walking distance of all the bars and restaurants of trendy Chicon Street. The freestanding studio is a stylish blend of contemporary and mid-century modern, featuring a chic, white-subway-tiled kitchen accented with gold hardware, vintage-style wood furnishings, Edison bulb lighting, and black-and-white framed photos throughout. A record player and curated collection of vinyl LPs add to the old-school feel.
Modern conveniences include a washer/dryer, heating, and reliable Wi-Fi. While you do have the option to add a floor mattress to sleep more guests, the open-plan space does not have a separate bedroom, so it’s really best for couples, solo travelers, or those with small children.
The guesthouse, which has been awarded Airbnb Plus designation, has availability starting in April. There is currently a four-night minimum.
A backyard studio in Bouldin Creek, $110
Airbnb
Book this cozy studio starting at $110 per night
Located in the quaint, quiet Bouldin Creek neighborhood, this freestanding backyard studio is close to Auditorium Shores, Palmer Auditorium, Lady Bird Lake, and two of Austin’s best outdoor spots: Zilker Park and the massive, three-acre Barton Springs Pool fed by natural springs.
While the guesthouse is petite, its high ceilings, glass sliders, and open-plan design make it feel much bigger. Contemporary furniture in neutral earth tones and warm woods give the place a serene feel, while a huge colorful artwork in the living room adds a whimsical touch. There’s a comfy Queen-sized bed in the sleeping area, plus a fold-out sofa bed, but given the studio’s small size and lack of a bedroom, it’s best for couples or solo travelers. The spacious bathroom was recently renovated and features a large, walk-in shower. Outside is a private deck shaded by big oak trees and guests have use of the shared backyard (the owner lives in the main house).
The space does not have a kitchen, but it is equipped with a coffee maker, kettle, mini-fridge, and microwave, and coffee and tea are provided. A variety of restaurants, coffee shops, and food trucks are a short stroll away on South First Street, and it’s just a few more blocks to all the bars, restaurants, and shopping on South Congress.
The studio has availability starting in April.
Tranquil Hyde Park apartment with private patio, $117
Airbnb
Book this apartment with patio starting at $117 per night
Located in the Hyde Park Historic District, known for its gorgeous assortment of landmark homes dating from the Victorian Age, this one-bedroom garage apartment was built in 2010 in the same architectural style as the original 100-year-old main house. Enter through the private brick patio, which features a gas grill, a small seating area, and a shady pecan tree, and head up the stairs to the light-filled hideaway. The apartment is cozy, but nicely laid out, with a combination living/dining room, separate bedroom, and full kitchen with modern appliances.
A tasteful mix of contemporary and mid-century modern pieces decorate the rooms, and walls are painted in a soothing neutral color. There’s a Queen-sized foam mattress and big, walk-in closet in the sunny, spacious bedroom and the living room has a fold-out Queen-sized sofa bed. The tiled bathroom, while petite, has a cool vintage vibe thanks to the pedestal sink. A washer/dryer in the hallway closet is convenient for longer stays.
The apartment is walking distance to the UT campus, but there are many homegrown treasures in the neighborhood worth checking out. Among them is the low-key Mexican spot Julio’s, Exploded Records for everything vinyl, and Austin’s oldest drugstore, Avenue B Grocery & Market, a beloved stop for deli sandwiches since 1909.
The rental isn’t suitable for children under 12. It has availability from April on.
Hilltop Clarksville apartment with skyline views, $149
Airbnb
Book this cityscape guesthouse starting at $149 per night
Sitting high on a hill in Clarksville, one of Austin’s most coveted, centrally located neighborhoods, this spacious garage apartment offers unbeatable city views. Big windows in the dining/living area look out over the skyline, or step out on the private deck and soak up unobstructed views of downtown and the domed capitol building.
The bright, airy, recently renovated space features cathedral ceilings and parquet flooring throughout. There are modern appliances and stylish wood cabinetry in the full-size kitchen, and the tiled bathroom has a large walk-in shower and a bonus seating area with a makeup mirror. The big, sunny bedroom has a Queen-sized sleigh bed, seating area, and plenty of closet space, and there’s a pull-out sofa that can sleep two. Simply furnished in a contemporary style, the highly-rated space is warm and welcoming, as are the hosts, who enjoy sharing homemade treats with guests.
Clarksville has a number of top restaurants, and it’s an easy walk to downtown Austin, Ladybird Lake, West 6th Street, home to the famous Swedish Bakery and the artisanal Amy’s Ice Creams.
This home is in high demand, with limited dates in April and more availability in June. There is a two-night minimum. The property is not suitable for infants or children under 2.
A contemporary downtown loft with balcony, $152
Airbnb
Book this downtown loft starting at $152 per night
Step outside the door of this contemporary condo building and you’re right on 6th Street, a blocks-long stretch packed with bars, nightclubs, and live music venues that’s arguably Austin’s most famous party zone.
This spacious, two-bedroom, two-bathroom loft can accommodate up to seven people and features an open-plan living room/kitchen that’s ideal for hanging out with friends. Floor-to-ceiling windows let in plenty of light, while high ceilings and exposed concrete beams give it a cool, industrial-style vibe. The look is complemented by sleek, modern furnishings, including a leather sofa, plexiglass coffee table, and cowhide rug in the living area, while a playful neon sign on the balcony makes for fun photo ops.
The large kitchen is equipped with all the latest appliances and the apartment comes with a huge Smart TV and high-speed Wi-Fi. Each bedroom has two beds — one with two Queens, the other with a Queen and a Double — giving larger groups plenty of sleeping space. The condo also comes with one reserved parking space (important in this downtown zone where parking is scarce).
This condo is available for booking from the end of March.
A vintage SoCo bungalow with backyard pig, $189
Airbnb
Book this unique bungalow starting at $189 per night
The city’s famous catchphrase, “Keep Austin Weird,” is alive and well at this bungalow dubbed the “Pig Parlor,” whose backyard is home to Gerdeth, a friendly little pig who guests adore. It also has a great SoCo (South Congress) location, just steps from the iconic street lined with vintage shops, restaurants, and bars—including one of Austin’s most famous music venues, the Continental Club.
The rustic-meets-modern interior features white-washed shiplap walls and ceilings, and every room is accented with a glass chandelier. Black leather sofas and a plush carpet decorate the living area, while the open, eat-in kitchen features new, retro-style appliances. Nice-sized bedrooms have Queen- and King-sized beds and big windows looking out onto the backyard. A fun touch are the brightly colored paintings of (what else?) pigs throughout the home.
This home has availability from March. Note that it is not suitable for infants or children under 2.
A 1930s cottage in the Heritage neighborhood, $189
Airbnb
Book this cottage starting at $189 per night
The aptly named Heritage neighborhood is dotted with historical homes and charming cottages like this one, built in 1935 and retaining its original hardwood floors, lovely trim detailing, and fireplace. The two-bedroom, two-bathroom home has been thoroughly updated and is artfully decorated with contemporary furnishings in neutral gray tones and black-and-white photos dotting the pristine white walls. Light floods in through the many windows throughout the kitchen, living room, and separate dining room, giving the cottage a bright, airy feel. Both bedrooms are spacious, but the larger of the two has a Queen-sized bed and direct access to a terrace. The private backyard features a hammock beneath a large oak tree and is the perfect spot for napping.
While the neighborhood is mainly residential, it’s within walking distance of the UT campus and the many bars and restaurants along Guadalupe Street — commonly referred to as the “The Drag.” Because of its proximity to the university, you can expect higher rates during big events like football games.
The home, which has received Airbnb Plus designation, has availability starting in late March. Note that the property is not suitable for children under 12.
An architectural gem in Windsor Park, $194
Airbnb
Book this glass-walled bungalow starting at $194 per night
This sleek, redesigned 1950s bungalow located in trendy Windsor Park offers fantastic indoor/outdoor space. Sliding glass walls in the living room open to a private, fenced backyard, whose big wood deck, 12-foot-long outdoor dining table, and fire pit with seating area make for an ideal gathering place.
The home is impeccably decorated with chic, contemporary furnishings and carefully curated artwork. The streamlined open kitchen with breakfast bar features glossy white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and natural wood walls. Both bedrooms are large and each has its pluses. One with a King-sized bed features a standout ensuite bathroom with wood-lined walls and ceiling, gray-tiled floors, and a Chromatherapy Jacuzzi bathtub. The other has a Queen-sized bed and sliders with direct access to the backyard.
Windsor Park is a bit farther out from downtown — it’s a 15-minute drive to 6th Street — but it has its own cool scene with plenty of restaurants, coffee shops, and bars (don’t miss the old-school, circus-themed Carousel Lounge), as well as the Mueller Blue Starlight Drive-In.
The home allows one pet with prior approval and infants or children over the age of 8. The Airbnb Plus property has availability from March.
More great Airbnb getaways
Airbnb