Market Overview for Holly
There are 36 active listings in Holly with a median list price of $750K and a median sold price of $673K.
Homes average 57 days on market.
Over the past 30 days, 5 homes have sold, with 58 sales in the past 12 months.
The average price per square foot is $548.
About Holly
Holly is a historic East Austin neighborhood situated between East Cesar Chavez Street and Lady Bird Lake, named after the former Holly Street Power Plant that once anchored the area. The neighborhood has deep roots in Austin's Mexican-American community, with a cultural heritage that remains visible in its murals, family-owned businesses, and community landmarks even as significant gentrification has reshaped the housing market over the past two decades.
Homes in Holly range from approximately $400,000 for smaller bungalows to over $1 million for renovated or new-construction properties, reflecting the neighborhood's dramatic price appreciation. The housing stock is eclectic: original 1940s-60s cottages and bungalows sit alongside modern infill construction, contemporary townhomes, and fully renovated residences. Lot sizes are modest, typically 5,000 to 7,000 square feet, but the proximity to Lady Bird Lake and downtown makes every parcel valuable.
Holly is served by the Austin Independent School District (Austin ISD). Students typically attend Sanchez Elementary and Austin High School. Martin Middle School closed at the end of the 2025-26 school year under Austin ISD's consolidation plan; its students were reassigned to Kealing, Marshall, or Lively Middle School. The neighborhood's East Austin location also provides access to charter and private school options in the area.
The neighborhood's location is arguably its greatest asset: Lady Bird Lake's hike-and-bike trail is nearby, downtown Austin's bars and restaurants on East 6th Street and Rainey Street are minutes away, and I-35 provides quick highway access. The former Holly Power Plant site has been redeveloped as the Edward Rendon Sr. Metro Park, adding waterfront green space to a neighborhood already defined by its central urban location.
Living in Holly
Holly delivers one of the most walkable urban lifestyles in Austin, with Lady Bird Lake, downtown, and East Austin's dining and nightlife scene all within easy reach. Homes from $400K to over $1M reflect the price that buyers pay for this location — steps from the hike-and-bike trail, minutes from East 6th Street, and in the heart of one of Austin's most culturally rich neighborhoods.
The neighborhood's ongoing transformation means coexistence between long-time residents, new homeowners, and renters drawn by the urban convenience. Original bungalows share blocks with modern builds, and legacy taquerias operate alongside craft cocktail bars. For buyers who want Austin's urban core without the high-rise living of Rainey Street or the pricing of Zilker, Holly offers a walkable, culturally textured alternative with strong appreciation potential.
Things to Do in Holly
- Edward Rendon Sr. Metro Park at Festival Beach: Waterfront park on the former Holly Power Plant site with Lady Bird Lake access, open green space, and community event facilities.
- Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail: 10-mile paved trail circling Lady Bird Lake, accessible a short distance from Holly. Popular for running, cycling, and kayaking.
- East Cesar Chavez Dining: East Cesar Chavez Street features well-known Austin restaurants, taquerias, coffee shops, and bars reflecting the neighborhood's cultural heritage and evolving food scene.
- Fiesta Gardens: City of Austin event venue on Lady Bird Lake hosting cultural festivals, concerts, and community celebrations throughout the year.
- East Austin Studio Tour: Annual art event showcasing East Austin's active artist community with open studios, galleries, and live demonstrations in the Holly area and beyond.
Major Employers in Holly
- Downtown Austin Employers (Technology & Professional Services): Corporate offices within walking or biking distance including tech companies, law firms, and government
- Austin Energy (Utilities): Municipal electric utility with facilities in the area
- City of Austin (Government): City Hall and municipal offices within minutes of the neighborhood
- University of Texas at Austin (Higher Education): Major university approximately 10 minutes north, employing over 24,000
- Seton Medical Center (Healthcare): Major hospital on East 15th Street, approximately 10 minutes north
Holly Schools
Holly is served by Austin ISD. Students typically attend Zavala Elementary or Sanchez Elementary or Govalle Elementary for elementary school, Kealing, Marshall, or Lively Middle School for middle school, and Eastside Early College or Travis High School for high school.
School District: Austin ISD
Public Schools
Pre-Schools
- Escuelita del Alma - Bilingual preschool in the East Austin community
- Children's Discovery Center - Early education center near downtown Austin
Private Schools
- Austin Montessori School - Private Montessori school in the East Austin area
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Holly neighborhood in Austin?
Holly is a historic East Austin neighborhood between East Cesar Chavez Street and Lady Bird Lake, just east of I-35. It is named after the former Holly Street Power Plant, whose site is now the Edward Rendon Sr. Metro Park.
How much do homes cost in Holly?
Homes in Holly range from approximately $400,000 for smaller bungalows to over $1 million for renovated or new-construction properties. The neighborhood has experienced significant price appreciation due to its proximity to Lady Bird Lake and downtown.
What school district is Holly in?
Holly is served by Austin ISD. Students typically attend Sanchez Elementary and Austin High School; Martin Middle School closed at the end of 2025-26.
Is Holly near downtown Austin?
Yes, Holly is one of Austin's most walkable neighborhoods relative to downtown. Lady Bird Lake's hike-and-bike trail is nearby, and downtown's East 6th Street and Rainey Street are minutes away by foot or bike.
What is the history of the Holly neighborhood?
Holly has deep roots in Austin's Mexican-American community and was historically a residential East Austin neighborhood. The area was named after the Holly Street Power Plant, which operated from 1960 to 2007. The plant site has been redeveloped as waterfront parkland.
Is Holly gentrifying?
Holly has experienced significant gentrification over the past two decades, with home prices rising substantially. Original bungalows now share blocks with modern infill construction, and the neighborhood's demographics and business landscape have shifted, though cultural landmarks and legacy businesses remain.
