According to statistics shared by the REALTORS Land Institute, residential land sales accounted for approximately 59% of all land transactions in the US in 2024. Interestingly, states like Florida, Georgia, California, Arizona, and, as expected, Texas accounted for a significant portion of land sales.
At CKN Homes, our team can confirm that buying land in Austin, TX, is becoming increasingly popular. We've encountered several clients in recent months who are interested in Austin land development and new construction in Austin, TX. So, if you're thinking about buying land in Austin in 2026, you're not alone.
In our latest blog, we've shared Austin land costs and where there is land for sale in Austin to help with your budgeting. And when the time comes, our team is more than happy to help you with building a custom home in Austin. So, let's walk through current land prices, how different neighborhoods stack up, and what you'll want to consider before taking the plunge.
What Is the Average Cost of Land Per Acre in Austin, Texas, in 2026?
In recent years, Austin has grown into a nationally recognized culture and tech hub, so it should come as no surprise that people are clamoring at its gates to make this place their home.
However, with the city's growth comes rising land costs, but how much does land cost in Austin? This is a good question, but it's a little tricky to answer since Austin lot prices can ebb and flow based on many factors, including the Austin land market in 2026.
The cost to buy land in Austin can be quite steep, but it is not unattainable. But don't fret; we have a ballpark answer that might help. According to Texas Real Estate Source, land within Austin city limits ranges from around $300,000 to well over $1 million per acre, depending on location, zoning, and development potential.
If this is a little too far out of your price range, you can always try looking beyond the city and into the broader Austin-Waco Hill Country region. This region offers greater price flexibility, with land prices averaging approximately $7,306 per acre, based on 2025 estimates. We can't deny it's much cheaper but don't expect those prices in South Austin or anywhere near the city's most desirable districts.
Additionally, pricing in Austin and its surrounding areas is likely to be higher in 2026, but not by a significant amount, considering current market trends.
How Do Land Prices Vary Across Different Neighborhoods in Austin?
At CKN Homes, we're part of the community, so we're well aware that this city is a patchwork of personality-packed neighborhoods and that land prices reflect this variety.
Different areas in the city will have differing price points, but if you're on the hunt for luxury, charm, or up-and-coming value, there's a spot in Austin that fits the bill.
Below, we've shared our insights on the best places to buy land in Austin and central Texas land prices:
High-End Neighborhoods
If you've ever driven through Pemberton Heights and thought, "Wow, this feels fancy," you're not wrong. This historic neighborhood is as elite as it gets in Austin. The land here can easily hit $1 million per acre – or more – thanks to its prestige, history, and proximity to downtown.
Mid-Range Neighborhoods
Mueller is what happens when smart planning meets serious curb appeal. It's full of parks, shops, and homes designed with sustainability in mind. With median home prices around $765,000, land prices are up there but still less intimidating than Austin's most exclusive zones.
Emerging Neighborhoods
Looking for potential without the million-dollar sticker shock? Windsor Park might be your sweet spot. In our opinion, it's gaining traction with first-time buyers and young families, offering a welcoming community and long-term promise.
Trendy Hotspots
If you want somewhere trendy, you won't want to look further than South Congress – aka SoCo. This is a place where creativity, live music, and food trucks collide. It's lively, walkable, and in demand. With median home prices near $840,000, land in this area is competitive and priced to match its popularity, but still somewhat affordable for some.
What Factors Influence Land Prices in Austin in 2026?
We get it. Land for sale in Austin, TX, can feel like a mystery. One plot costs a small fortune, and another down the road feels like a steal. Here's a look at what factors are influencing prices in Austin in 2026 so you don't get any nasty surprises:
- Zoning and development potential: Not all lots are created equal. Some are zoned for single-family homes, while others have the green light for multi-unit development. The more you can do with a lot, the more it will cost.
- Location: Land closer to downtown, the lake, or top-rated schools comes at a premium. Everyone wants to be where the action is, so it will cost more to buy land here. If you're on a budget, we can discuss other desirable areas that might fit your lifestyle and your budget.
- Regional demand: Austin's population continues to boom, particularly with remote work enabling people to relocate from across the country. Add in the expanding tech scene, and you've got a recipe for high demand and limited supply, so getting your hands on a piece of land you love can not only be costly but also a real struggle.
- Utilities and infrastructure: Land that already has access to water, sewer, electricity, and roads? That's gold. The less prep work required, the more attractive the land, and the faster you can start building, but the more you will pay in most cases.
Is Buying Land in Austin a Good Investment in 2026?
Yes, provided you do your homework. Austin remains one of the US's fastest-growing cities. While some of the major price surges may have leveled off, we're still seeing steady growth, especially in areas that are being revitalized or rezoned.
So, if you're planning to build a custom home, buying your lot now lets you lock in current pricing before demand rises again. Just be sure the lot you're considering is ready for construction or can reasonably be prepped, as some properties look great on paper but hide costly complications.
Choose CKN Homes for Your Custom Home Building Needs
At CKN Homes, we believe finding the right Austin land for sale is just as important as building the right home. We work closely with you to evaluate potential lots, not just for views and square footage but for things like access, zoning, drainage, and buildability.
Once the land is right, we help you design and build a home that suits your needs, lifestyle, and budget. And we keep things transparent the whole way through, so there are no surprises. You can contact us here today to get started!
