Market Overview for Howard Ranch
There are 7 active listings in Howard Ranch with a median list price of $1.2M and a median sold price of $1.2M.
Homes average 16 days on market.
Over the past 30 days, 2 homes have sold, with 13 sales in the past 12 months.
The average price per square foot is $363.
About Howard Ranch
Howard Ranch is a residential neighborhood in the greater Austin metro area, situated in the Driftwood area within the 78620 zip code in Hays County. The neighborhood is positioned along the US 290, FM 1826, FM 150 corridor and Elder Hill Road, approximately 35-50 minutes via US 290 or SH 12 from downtown Austin. Howard Ranch is part of the broader Driftwood area residential landscape that has seen ongoing development and population growth as the Austin metropolitan area continues to expand outward from the city core into surrounding communities.
Homes in Howard Ranch are primarily single-family residences that reflect the development patterns typical of Hays County communities in the Driftwood area area. The neighborhood offers housing options ranging from newer construction to established homes, depending on the section and phase of development. Properties in this part of Hays County generally sit on standard suburban lot sizes, with some sections featuring larger homesites. Nearby amenities include H-E-B (Dripping Springs), Hays City Store, along with restaurants and retail along Driftwood and Dripping Springs.
Howard Ranch is served by Dripping Springs ISD. Students in the neighborhood typically attend Walnut Springs for elementary grades, Dripping Springs Middle for middle school, and Dripping Springs for high school. Dripping Springs ISD operates multiple campuses across the Driftwood area region and has maintained consistent enrollment growth in recent years.
Howard Ranch residents benefit from proximity to Salt Lick area and Camp Ben McCulloch for outdoor recreation, as well as commercial areas along Driftwood for shopping and dining. The commute to downtown Austin from Howard Ranch is 35-50 minutes via US 290 or SH 12, primarily via US 290 or FM 1826. Major employers accessible from the neighborhood include Dripping Springs ISD and Local ranches and agriculture, both within a reasonable commuting distance. Grocery shopping is available at nearby H-E-B (Dripping Springs) and Hays City Store locations. The Driftwood area continues to attract new residents and families drawn to the combination of residential settings, quality Dripping Springs ISD schools, and convenient access to Austin's major employment centers and entertainment districts.
Living in Howard Ranch
Howard Ranch provides a residential setting in the Driftwood area of Hays County with access to local amenities, schools, and parks. The neighborhood draws a mix of families, working professionals, and established homeowners who value the Driftwood area location and its proximity to both suburban conveniences and Austin's urban core. Nearby grocery options include H-E-B (Dripping Springs), Hays City Store, and dining options are available along Driftwood and Dripping Springs. Dripping Springs ISD serves the area, with students attending Walnut Springs, Dripping Springs Middle, and Dripping Springs.
The commute to downtown Austin from Howard Ranch is 35-50 minutes via US 290 or SH 12, primarily using US 290 or FM 1826. Residents have access to outdoor recreation at Salt Lick area and Camp Ben McCulloch, and the broader Driftwood area area offers additional parks, trails, and green spaces for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The neighborhood is part of the Driftwood area growth corridor that has seen continued residential development, retail expansion, and infrastructure investment as the Austin metro's population has grown. New commercial services, dining options, and recreational amenities continue to open along major corridors serving the Driftwood area community and its surrounding neighborhoods.
Things to Do in Howard Ranch
- Salt Lick BBQ: Iconic Texas barbecue restaurant on 40 acres in Driftwood, known for open-pit cooking and BYOB policy.
- Driftwood Estate Winery: Hill Country winery with tastings, live music, and panoramic views of the surrounding Hill Country.
- Camp Ben McCulloch: Historic campground and event venue hosting the annual Old Settlers Music Festival and community gatherings.
- Hays County natural areas: Rolling Hill Country terrain with hiking, horseback riding, and scenic drives along ranch roads.
Major Employers in Howard Ranch
- Dripping Springs ISD (Education): Growing school district with multiple campuses serving Dripping Springs and rural Hays County.
- Local ranches and agriculture (Agriculture): Working ranches, organic farms, and agritourism operations in the rural Hays County area.
- Wimberley area employers (Tourism): Nearby Wimberley provides year-round employment in tourism, retail, hospitality, and artisan craft businesses along the Wimberley Square.
Howard Ranch Schools
Howard Ranch is served by Dripping Springs ISD. Students typically attend Walnut Springs Elementary or Dripping Springs Elementary for elementary school, Dripping Springs Middle for middle school, and Dripping Springs High School for high school.
School District: Dripping Springs ISD
Public Schools
- Walnut Springs Elementary
- Dripping Springs Middle
- Dripping Springs High School
Pre-Schools
- Liberty Hill Montessori - Montessori-method preschool in Liberty Hill serving ages 18 months through 6 years with hands-on learning curriculum.
- Primrose School of Georgetown - Accredited early education center near I-35 in Georgetown serving infants through pre-K with Balanced Learning curriculum.
Private Schools
- Summit Christian Academy - Private school in Williamson County offering pre-K through 12 with college-preparatory curriculum and small class sizes.
- Grace Academy Georgetown - Christian school in Georgetown serving pre-K through 8 with integrated faith-based academics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What school district serves Howard Ranch?
Howard Ranch is served by Dripping Springs ISD. Students typically attend Walnut Springs for elementary grades, Dripping Springs Middle for middle school, and Dripping Springs for high school. The district serves the broader Driftwood area community.
How far is Howard Ranch from downtown Austin?
Howard Ranch is located in Driftwood area and the commute to downtown Austin is 35-50 minutes via US 290 or SH 12. Primary routes include US 290 and FM 1826. During peak rush hour, commute times may be longer depending on traffic conditions along these corridors.
What is there to do near Howard Ranch?
Residents of Howard Ranch have access to several recreational options in the Driftwood area area. Salt Lick BBQ and Driftwood Estate Winery are within a short drive. The area also offers dining and shopping options along Driftwood and Dripping Springs, with additional entertainment and recreation throughout the Austin metro.
What county is Howard Ranch in?
Howard Ranch is located in Hays County, Texas, within the greater Austin metropolitan area. The neighborhood falls within the Dripping Springs ISD attendance zone and the 78620 zip code. Hays County provides local government services including road maintenance, law enforcement, and parks.
What grocery stores are near Howard Ranch?
Nearby grocery options for Howard Ranch residents include H-E-B (Dripping Springs), Hays City Store, and other retailers. These stores are accessible along US 290 and serve the Driftwood area community. Additional shopping and dining options are available along the major commercial corridors in the area.
What zip code is Howard Ranch in?
Howard Ranch is located in the 78620 zip code in Hays County, Texas. The neighborhood is served by Dripping Springs ISD and is part of the Driftwood area area. The 78620 zip code includes several nearby neighborhoods and communities.