History of Leander: What is Leander, Texas known for?

Leander, Texas, nestled in the heart of Williamson County and Travis County, seamlessly blends small-town charm with the convenience of big-city access. Established in 1882 on land sold by the railroad company, its rich history is intertwined with the development of the Austin and Northwestern Railroad Co. line, thanks to Leander “Catfish” Brown, a notable railroad official.

Leander’s history extends far beyond the railroad tracks. The area holds a fascinating archaeological discovery: the “Leandrathal Lady“, one of the earliest fully intact skeletons ever found in the United States. This remarkable find offers a glimpse into the lives of Leander’s earliest inhabitants. With a history as captivating as its landscape, Leander offers a unique blend of heritage and modernity.

Leander has come a long way since its railroad-centric origins. Today, it’s a thriving community known for its safety, peaceful atmosphere, and appeal to young professionals and families. In fact, it held the title of the fastest-growing city in the US between 2018 and 2019!

Leander’s Climate & Geography: Why Move To Leander, TX?

Leander’s climate is characterized by hot, muggy summers, with temperatures averaging over 86°F (30°C). In Leander, water conservation is essential due to periodic droughts and population growth. Residents are urged to conserve water to protect our supply, reduce costs, lower bills, and benefit the environment. While the summers may be sweltering, winters are brief, cold, and accompanied by occasional winds.

Expect partly cloudy weather year-round, punctuated by frequent thunderstorms and rainfall during the summer months. While snowfall is rare, flurries can occasionally dust the cityscape, adding a touch of winter wonder.

Leander’s geographical proximity to Austin allows residents to enjoy the best of both worlds—a tranquil escape with easy access to a vibrant city. Plus, with the commuter MetroRail connecting Leander to North Austin, commuting has never been more convenient.

13 Things To Know Before Moving To Leander

Moving to Leander can be an exciting adventure! But before you pack your bags, here are 13 valuable tips to help you prepare for your new life in this Texas city:

1. Finding Your Place: The Best Neighborhoods in Leander

Leander offers a diverse range of neighborhoods to suit different lifestyles. Here are a few popular choices:

2. Stretch Your Dollars: Enjoy Affordable Living in Leander Without Compromise

One of the most appealing aspects of Leander is its affordability. It is ranked 155 out of 273 cities across the US in terms of cost of living, with a 7% lower cost of living compared to the national average. Residents can also enjoy more spacious homes and larger yards as they have 6% lower housing prices compared to the national average. So whether you’re looking to rent an apartment or buy a house, you’ll find a range of housing options to suit your budget.

3. Setting the Standard With Leander’s Acclaimed School System

Families moving to Leander will appreciate the esteemed education system. The Leander Independent School District (LISD) is known for its high-quality schools and dedicated teachers and is ranked around the top 2% of Texas’ more than 1,250 public school districts.

LISD offers a comprehensive educational experience from elementary to high school, setting the foundation for a successful future. Here’s a glimpse into some of the schools:

Elementary Schools:

• Monta Jane Akin El
• Laura Welch Bush Elementary School
• River Ridge Elementary School
• Rutledge Elementary School
• Parkside Elementary School

Middle Schools:

• Stiles Middle School
• Canyon Ridge Middle School
• Four Points Middle School
• Leander Middle School
• Cedar Park Middle School

High Schools:

• Leander High School.
• Vista Ridge High School
• Cedar Park High School
• Rouse High School
• Vandegrift H

Leander’s proximity to Austin opens doors to exceptional post-secondary education opportunities. Within a 20-mile radius, you’ll find renowned institutions like Southwestern University situated in Georgetown along with Concordia University Texas.

4. Just a Short Commute to Austin

Despite its small-town feel, Leander is conveniently located just 30 miles north of downtown Austin. Commuters will appreciate easy access to major highways including US-183 South and Texas 45 Toll.

If public transportation is more your vibe, Leander is serviced by Capital Metro, Austin’s public transit system. The Leander Station serves as the northernmost stop, with trains running every two hours and a commute time of around 1 hour. Additionally, Capital Metro offers several bus routes connecting Leander to various parts of Austin, including the MetroExpress 985, which utilizes MoPac’s Express Lanes for a quicker trip.

5. Your Daily Escape: Enjoying Leander’s Remarkable Scenery

Nature lovers will feel right at home in Leander. The city offers an abundance of parks, trails, and green spaces where you can enjoy hiking, biking, water activities, and more.

Popular sites:

• Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge: Hike, bike, or rock climb amidst breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife.
• Sandy Creek Park: Explore this 92-acre park with hiking trails, a swimming area, and opportunities for fishing and birdwatching.
• Williamson Park Nature Trail: This short and easy trail is perfect for a family outing, offering a glimpse of the local flora and fauna.
• San Gabriel River: Kayak, fish, or simply relax by the river and soak up the natural beauty.

6. In Leander, Adventures Await Around Every Corner

While the commute to Austin is convenient, there’s no need to venture far for entertainment or activities. Leander offers a mix of its own charming shops, restaurants, and green spaces.

We’ve included some of our local Leander movers’ favorite activities and places for you to check out:

Explore Leander’s Local History

• Old Town Leander
• Pickle-Mason House
• Leander Presbyterian Church
• Pioneers House (Bryson Farmstead)
• Dinosaur Trail along the San Gabriel River

Endless Entertainment: Leander’s Events and Festivals

There’s nothing Leanders loves more than a colorful celebration! Here are some of our Leander movers’ favorite events:

• Old Town Street Festival
• Old Town Christmas Festival
• Leander Liberty Fest
• Honda Leander Blue Grass Festival
• Mason Heritage Days
• Tricks & Treats Spooktacular
• Kite Festival

Leander’s Shopping Scene

• Lakeline Mall
• Main Street Marketplace
• Round Rock Premium Outlets
• Leander Flea Market

A Taste Of Fun For The Whole Family

If you’re looking for brain-stimulating experiences and family-friendly activities, our movers recommend the following:

• Trail of Trains
• Cedar Rock Railroad
• Lakewood Park
• Waterloo Adventures
• Quarry Splash Pad
• Volente Beach

Explore Leander’s Great Outdoors

There’s nothing like enjoying the outdoors on a beautiful day! Here are some of our movers’ favorite outdoor spots:

• Devine Lake Park
• Sandy Creek Park
• Crystal Falls Golf Club

Music and Nightlife

• H-E-B Center — catch a hockey or basketball game or a concert
• Haute Spot
• Fieldhouse

7. Indulge in Leander’s Craft Breweries and Local Flavors

Leander’s craft beer scene is flourishing, offering a variety of unique and refreshing beverages for locals and visitors to enjoy. Dive into the world of artisanal brews at:

• Leanderthal Distillery and Bar
• Whitestone Brewery
• Redhorn Brewery

When it’s time to refuel, be sure to visit some of Leander’s favorite foodie destinations:

• Sharks Burger
• Bella Sera
• Blue Corn Harvest
• Noodle Alley

8. Leander’s Thriving Job Market

The city sits within the dynamic Austin metroplex, offering residents access to a wealth of career opportunities. With a short commute to Austin’s booming job market, Leander positions itself perfectly for those seeking professional growth.

Leander has a healthy economy, with a consistently low unemployment rate that sits below both the Texas and national averages. The city’s job market is particularly strong in several sectors, including education, healthcare, professional and technical services, and retail. This diversity ensures a wide range of opportunities for residents of all backgrounds and skill sets.

9. Feel Safe Raising Your Family in Leander

Leander isn’t just a great place to live, it’s a fantastic place to raise a family. One of the top priorities for parents is safety, and Leander puts your mind at ease. Crime rates here are much lower than the average across Texas and the nation. That means you can relax knowing your kids are growing up in a safe and secure environment.

10. Get Around Leander Like a Local

Getting around Leander just like a local couldn’t be easier, thanks to CapMetro. They’ve got buses and trains connecting Leander with nearby spots, including Austin. If you’re commuting, just park your ride at the Leander Station Park & Ride near U.S. 183 and Metro Dr., and hop on for a smooth trip into Austin. Plus, within Leander, CapMetro is ready to take you wherever you need to go with its on-demand Pickup service. Check out CapMetro’s website for all the simple details on fares and services.

11. Soak Up the Sun, All Year Long In Leander

Prepare to bask in sunshine year-round in Leander, with an average of 229 sunny days per year, you will have no shortage of opportunities to enjoy the warmth and brightness of the Texan sky.

August takes the crown as the hottest month, but don’t let that deter you. Embrace indoor activities by taking a short trip to Austin Aquarium to beat the heat or take a refreshing dip in one of the local pools or lakes. Need a fun way to cool off the family? Head over to Lake Travis and treat your family to a cooling adventure with Waterloo Adventures.

Snow is a rarity in Leander, even in January, the coldest month of the year. April, October, and May emerge as the most pleasant months for outdoor activities. With mild temperatures and sunny skies, these months beckon adventurers to explore the natural beauty surrounding Leander. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or simply picnicking in the park, these months offer ideal weather conditions.

12. Leander is Among the Nation’s Fastest Growing Cities

Leander is experiencing a period of exciting growth, consistently ranking as one of the nation’s fastest-growing cities. This boom can be attributed to several factors including its affordability, proximity to Austin, and its strong and diverse economy.

The city is strategically planning for this growth, ensuring that infrastructure and amenities keep pace with the rising population. So, whether you’re a young couple starting out or a growing family, Leander offers a vibrant and welcoming community with plenty of room to grow alongside you.

13. Leander’s Water Capacity and What to Expect

As a new resident of Leander, you might be curious about the city’s water situation. Leander previously relied on a single, limited-capacity water treatment plant. This, particularly during droughts, led to stricter water conservation measures, including water bans. These bans typically restricted outdoor watering and encouraged residents to be mindful of overall water usage.

Leander is actively addressing these concerns:

• The city is expanding its water treatment facilities to ensure a reliable supply for the growing population.
• Leander is building a system to treat wastewater for irrigation and other non-drinking uses, reducing pressure on the freshwater supply.

While Leander is working towards water security, it’s still possible to experience water restrictions during periods of extreme drought or unexpected strain on the system. Be prepared to adjust your water usage habits if necessary.

Tips To Remember After Your Move To Leander

If the above list was enough for you to book your move, our Leander moving team wanted to provide you with some additional tips to make sure you’re safe and comfortable in your new home:

• Update your address! Don’t forget to update official records and other important documentation (e.g. passport, medical records, banking, etc) with your new address.
• Change your locks! Ensure your and your family’s safety with new locks.
• Confirm your driver’s license is valid in Leander and update your vehicle registration.
• Set up utilities: electricity, water, gas, internet, and other cable services.
• Remember to register to vote at your new address — the sooner you remember the less of a headache the next election will be!
• Learn how waste management in Leander works! There’s nothing worse than a growing pile of garbage and/or recycling in your garage.

Check out our blog for more helpful tips on settling into your new home!