15 Reasons to Retire in Leander, Texas

There is a saying that everything’s bigger in Texas, and this includes retirement lifestyles. In fact, Texas ranks as one of the top ten states for retirees. But given Texas’s big personality and size, choosing places to live can seem daunting.

Allow us to introduce Leander, Texas. This lively suburb of Austin offers all the amenities you associate with a city like Austin but also presents the community atmosphere you expect from a smaller town.

Why retire in Leander, Texas? Keep reading to learn fifteen reasons you’ll want to say “Howdy!” to your new home in Texas.

General Information About Leander, Texas

Before we dive into all the wonderful aspects of Leander, it’s important to have a look at some of the city’s facts. This information is courtesy of the United States Census Bureau.

The Demographics of Leander, Texas

According to the 2020 census, the population of Leander is 59,202. The median age of Leander’s residents is 30 years old, and the average annual income is $101,872.

The population of Leander primarily consists of families with children in the home and married couples. 20.3% of Leander’s population is 45 years and older. The average price of a single-family home is $292,000, and the average commute time is 30 minutes.

1. Leander, Texas, is Perfectly Located

If proximity to a bustling city suits your independent living goals, then Leander, Texas, fits the bill. Let’s discover more about Leander’s location and the fantastic opportunities and activities that await you.

Where is Leander, Texas?

Leander, Texas, is an Austin suburb located just north of the city. As one of the many suburbs of Austin, Leander allows you easy access to the city and its many things to do and see. Leander lies within both Williamson County and Travis County.

The greater Austin area lies in the Hill Country of central Texas. This part of Texas debunks the notion that the entire state is flat, although the hills in Hill Country don’t compare to mountainous regions in other parts of the United States. The limestone hills surrounding Austin are rarely higher than 500 feet, but the hills are perfect for light hiking and exploring.

Proximity to Austin International Airport

Proximity to an international airport is always a plus when looking for a place to spend your retirement. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is just a 25-minute drive from Leander, allowing you to travel with ease and making it that much easier for friends and family to visit.

Numerous airlines offer non-stop flights from Austin to destinations like Boston, Chicago, Honolulu, Los Angeles, and more. You can even fly non-stop to international destinations like Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Cancun, London, and Vancouver. If you love to travel, the Austin area makes getting away ultra-convenient.

2. Experience Four Seasons in Leander, Texas

Retirees looking for new places to live might think of Florida. And Florida is indeed perfect for some people. But those who enjoy experiencing the beauty of four distinct seasons will love the Leander, Texas, area.

Spring

Spring in central Texas is a glorious time of the year. Temperatures between March and May range from daytime highs in the mid-70s to mid-80s, and nighttime lows are in the mid-50s to low 60s. Rainy days tend to occur about five times per month during the spring.

But one of the most exciting benefits of retiring in Leander, Texas, is bluebonnet season. During March and April, these gorgeous blue flowers blanket the fields of central Texas. Just like the tulips in the Netherlands, people travel from all over the world to witness this stunning display of nature.

But if you live in Leander, the bluebonnets will practically be in your backyard.

Summer

The summer months in Leander, Texas, are warm, with June averaging highs in the low 90s. July and August can see high temperatures of 96. However, summer nights cool down quickly to pleasant temperatures in the low 70s. And, frankly, there’s nothing quite like watching a Texas summer sunset with a cold glass of iced tea or a frosty beer.

Summer is also the perfect time to cool off in one of the region’s many rivers, lakes, and swimming holes. Summer is also an ideal time to visit the Crystal Falls Golf Club to practice your swing or play a quick nine holes in the morning.

Fall

Fall is a great time to be in central Texas. While September temperatures still hover around 90 degrees, October and November cool off quickly, with daytime highs in the low 80’s and 70s. Nights become crisp, with temperatures dropping to the 50s and 60s.

The Texas Hill Country is home to numerous tree species that show off with brilliant shades of red, gold, orange, and purple in the fall months. Be on the lookout for maples, dogwoods, sweetgum, and hickory trees to discover why fall is one of the most beautiful times to be in Texas.

Winter

If you enjoy mild winters, Leander, Texas, is the place to be. Aside from the occasional cold snap, winter temperatures in Leander reach the mid-60s during the daytime hours and fall to the mid to low-40s at night. Precipitation averages 7 inches during the winter, which is 20% of the region’s yearly average.

Since winter is so mild in Leander, Texas, this gives you the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors without the constant presence of ice and snow.

3. Leander, Texas, is the Perfect Hub for Weekend Getaways

One of the best things about active retirement is the ability to be spontaneous. Road trips and weekend getaways can happen whenever you want them to. Leander is within driving distance of some of Texas’ most exciting locales and is just one of the benefits of retiring in Leander, Texas.

Georgetown, Texas

Georgetown, Texas, is only 25 miles from Leander, but its small-town charm will have you enchanted. Its downtown area features lovingly restored Victorian buildings, including the courthouse and county jail.

If you’re a golfer, the Georgetown Country Club, Legacy Hills Golf Club, and Berry Creek Country Club all offer challenging courses in beautiful settings. Lastly, you can’t miss Lake Georgetown. It’s the perfect place for a picnic, a hike, or simply relaxing alongside its beautiful shoreline.

San Antonio, Texas

If you’d like to venture a little further afield, San Antonio is a mere two-hour drive from Leander, Texas. San Antonio was the capital of Texas until 1884 and now boasts an abundance of historical sites alongside the amenities of a bustling, modern city.

San Antonio’s main attraction is The Alamo, the site where an army of Texans fought off the Mexican Army, eventually leading to Texas’ independence. A visit to this old Franciscan mission is an excellent way to learn a great deal about the history of Texas.

And if you’re in the mood for a laugh, ask your tour guide about the basement.

4. Leander, Texas, is the Perfect Place to Be Outdoors

With wonderful weather and stunning scenery, Leander is an outdoor lover’s paradise. No matter your fitness level, independent living in Leander means you can take in the gorgeousness at your own pace.

Devine Lake Park

For fishing and hiking, Devine Lake Park is the perfect destination. Explore the trails, throw a barbecue, or try your hand at fishing. Motorized boats are prohibited at Devine Lake Park, so peace and quiet are practically guaranteed.

Bushy Creek Greenbelt

The mixed-use trails at the Bushy Creek Greenbelt are perfect for a leisurely bike ride. Most of the paths are paved for those who prefer to take it easy, but there are also several unpaved trails perfect for mountain bike enthusiasts.

Tennis, Anyone?

If you love a good game of tennis, you’ll find several courts in Leander, Texas, to suit your needs. The tennis courts at Rouse High School and Leander High School are open to the public during certain hours of the day. If you prefer something more private, Cimmaron Hills offers tennis courts as well as pickleball, golf, and swimming.

Dining and Shopping in Leander

From mouthwatering burgers to Bahn mi, you’ll always find something delicious at one of Leander’s restaurants. Tex-Mex and barbecue dominate the restaurant scene here, but there are also plenty of options for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone else who loves great food.

Leander also features the big box stores you’re familiar with, as well as charming boutiques.

5. Leander, Texas, is a History Buff’s Dream

While the greater Austin area is a wonderful place to explore in general, we can’t discount what Leander has to offer specifically. Leander has its own unique story that begs to be discovered.

Explore Leander’s History

Prior to its founding as a city, the land around Leander was settled by First Peoples from the Tonkawa, Lipan Apache, and Comanche Nations. Subsequently, the Spanish and Mexican colonizers made their presence known. Still, they left the area under the control of the tribes who already lived there.

The Texas Revolution began in 1835 and ended in 1836, with Texas winning independence from Mexico. The Republic of Texas was founded in 1836, immediately after Texas declared victory.

The town we know as Leander was originally called Bagdad in 1855, named for the hometown of a settler from Tennessee. When the Austin and Northwest railroad began planning a route from Austin to Abilene, it was intended to pass through Bagdad. When the railroad moved the route a few miles east, most Bagdad businesses followed suit.

As a result of the move, the town was named Leander in 1882 after the former mayor of Austin, Leander Brown.

Leander’s Historic Landmarks

For a small town, Leander has a number of landmarks and sites that are historically significant. Exploring these important sites gives you a better idea of life in Leander and the events that brought us to the city we know today.

Historical Markers

Many of the important aspects of Leander’s history are memorialized by markers. Some of the most important of these are the A.S. Mason House, the Bagdad Cemetery, the Heinatz Homestead, and the site of the Webster Massacre.

The Leanderthal Lady

One of the most significant archeological discoveries in the United States was found in Bushy Creek, near Leander. In 1983, the Texas Department of Transportation unearthed a nearly intact female skeleton. Carbon dating results indicate this woman lived 10,000 to 30,000 years ago.

Also nicknamed Leanne, the Leanderthal Lady now lives at the University of Texas in Austin, but the marker of the grave site is on Highway 183.

6. Downtown Leander, Texas, Offers Fun for Everyone

A city’s festivals celebrate the community in extraordinary ways. Not only can you join in the fun, but you’ll also be able to learn more about what’s important to the city of Leander and about living in Texas. In addition to festivals, Leander offers weekly markets and more.

Festivals in Leander, Texas

Whether it’s food, music, art, or holiday celebrations, Leander goes all out to celebrate its community. Choosing Leander, Texas, retirement means you’ll be able to celebrate alongside your new friends and neighbors.

Leander Arts Fest

The Leander Arts fest is only in its second year, but it’s proving to be one of the city’s favorites. Held in September in Lakewood Park, this festival focuses on delicious food, kid-friendly activities, and music and celebrates the park itself.

Be sure to take a guided walk of the recently opened sculpture garden.

Leander Harvest Festival

There’s no better way to celebrate fall than with a harvest festival. Also held at Lakewood Park, the Leander Harvest Festival features a 5k run, a children’s fishing tournament, local crafts, and a fun cornhole tournament for adults.

You’ll also find plenty of local chefs on hand offering a wide variety of cuisine.

Explore Downtown Leander

In recent years, many cities have focused on revitalizing their downtown areas. This hasn’t just been a boon for local merchants. It’s also a delightful way for residents to participate in their community and feel more at home.

Visit Northline

Northline in Leander is a planned multi-use space in the city of Leander. This revolutionary space features shopping, dining, residences, hotels, and more. Since Leander is one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, a robust space like Northline serves to connect this expanding community with the services they need.

Old Town Leander Famer’s Market

Texas has a long growing season, and you’ll be able to reap those fresh and delicious rewards. You’ll find locally grown fruits and vegetables, locally raised meat, farm fresh eggs, and more. And if you get hungry while you’re shopping, food trucks are always available.

7. The Children in Your Life Will Love Leander

Whether you have grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, or other children in your family, they’ll love visiting you in Leander. Rain or shine, you’ll find many play options that children will love.

Cedar Rock Railroad

The Cedar Rock Railroad is a scaled-down train that carries passengers through the lush forests near Leander. They’re closed on Mondays but are open year-round for family fun throughout all the seasons of the year.

Mess Maker Studios

If you have a budding artist, don’t miss Mess Maker Studios in Leander. Here children can create to their heart’s content, and the lovely staff takes care of the clean-up! Mess Maker Studios is in Jonestown, about 20 minutes from Leander, but the drive is worth it.

8. Leander’s Proximity to Austin

While there is plenty to love about Leander, one of its most appealing aspects is its proximity to Austin. Austin, Texas, is one of the most vibrant and lively cities in the country and one of the best reasons to retire in Leander, Texas.

Getting From Leander to Austin

Leander is only about 25 miles from downtown Austin, but highway traffic can make that 25 miles feel a lot longer. The good news is that Metro Rail offers train service from Leander directly to Austin’s downtown area. By riding the rails, you’ll be able to skip car traffic and won’t have to worry about parking.

9. You’ll Never Run Out of Things to Do in Austin

You might be familiar with the South by Southwest and Austin City Limits festivals, but Austin is teeming with music, exceptional dining options, and beautiful parks.

Concerts in Austin

From rock and roll to classical, Austin hosts hundreds of music events each year. The Austin Symphony Orchestra has been performing since 1911 and presents an impressive calendar. You could see a live band each night of the week if you wish.

Keep an eye on Austin’s event calendar so you never miss your favorite performers.

Visit Rainey Street

The Rainey Street Historical District lies on the banks of the Colorado River and is the perfect spot to eat, drink, and be merry. Developers renovated older homes into bars, and restaurants line the streets. You can try some famous Texas BBQ or choose fine dining options. Rainey Street is also perfect for people-watching, and it’s truly a community treasure.

Hike Austin, Urban Style

One of Austin’s best features is its proximity to nature. For walkers, hikers, and birdwatchers, Austin is the perfect city. Visit Butler Metro Park for a stunning view of Austin’s skyline, and Zilker Park offers space for your dogs to frolic off-leash. Also, try the Turkey Creek Trail for leisurely hikes, especially in the spring and fall months.

Get a Pint at One of Austin’s Many Breweries

Austin’s brewmasters are consistently awarded top marks for their beers, and you can dive into a pint at one of many of the city’s breweries. Try Jester King in Dripping Springs, Live Oak Brewing for one of their smoked beers, or Austin Beerworks, one of the most popular breweries in the city.

10. You’ll Likely Have Lots of Visitors

The greater Austin area is one of those places that people want to visit but often don’t because they might not feel there’s enough to do. Once you’ve learned more about the benefits of retiring in Leander, Texas, you might be surprised by the number of friends and family who’d like to visit.

Showing people around your new home is one of the best parts of moving. With all there is to see and do in Leander and Austin, your guests will be grateful for you, a knowledgeable and local tour guide.

11. Your Family May Decide to Join You

When thinking about retirement communities, it might be hard to imagine leaving friends and family. But since many more people shift to remote work and have more freedom to move, your family might fall in love with Leander, just like you.

Leander Has Excellent Schools

The Leander Independent School District is one of the top-rated school districts in Texas. The student/teacher ratio averages 16:1, and nearly 100% of the student population graduates from high school. Leander also offers several top-rated private schools.

Leander is the Best Place to Raise a Family in Texas

According to Smart Asset, Leander is the top spot in Texas to raise a family. Leander’s excellent school system is a major factor, but Leander also boasts a younger population of families, so children have opportunities to make friends, participate in sports and, best of all, be closer to their grandparents.

12. The Greater Austin Area Has Excellent Healthcare

Whether you’re looking for a friendly GP or need more specialized care, the hospitals and clinics in the Leander/Austin area are among the best in the state. In fact, three of Austin’s hospitals landed in the top 26.

St. David’s Medical Center came in at number 8 in the survey, and you can rest assured that excellent healthcare is one of the many benefits of retiring in Leander, Texas.

13. Leander is the Country’s Second Hottest Neighborhood

Summers in Texas can be warm, but it’s not the temperature that makes Leander so hot. After analyzing many data sets, Open Door determined that Leander is the second most popular city in the country for new arrivals. Leander’s school systems, short distance to Austin, and ample green space are all contributing factors to this ranking.

14. Texas Has No State Income Tax

Making good financial decisions is important at all stages of your life. Still, when choosing retirement communities, it makes sense to consider one in a state with no income tax. As always, do your own financial research, but a state free of income tax can be a smart decision when considering a move.

15. Why Retire in Leander, Texas? Get to Know Verena at Leander

When looking for a 55+ community that offers an active retirement lifestyle, Verena at Leander stands out. Our luxury senior apartments and our attentive staff make Verena at Leander the perfect place for independent living.

The Verena at Leander Residences

Verena at Leander offers several floor plans for your convenience. You can opt for a one-bedroom apartment with or without a patio or a spacious two-bedroom with a patio. The interiors are uniquely designed for maximum comfort, individual decor, and functionality.

Meet Our Chef

Verena at Leander is proud to have an exceptionally talented chef on our team. Executive Chef Fred Perry brings his multi-faceted education and extensive work and life experience to the kitchen at Verena at Leander. Chef Fred is dedicated to providing Verena residents with exciting meal choices, themed dinners, and delightful holiday feasts.

Explore Our Amenities and Services

Retirement communities are not all the same, and our Verena at Leander stands out. Offering our residents a wide array of resort-style amenities and services is one of the ways we accomplish that.

All of our residences are pet friendly. We offer on-site salon services and a fitness center. Residents can utilize our library, media center, and movie theater or get creative in our art studio. Our heated saltwater pool and spa is a great place to relax and cool off. Join our many social activities, including happy hours, group outings, and day trips. Taking advantage of these activities also allows you to meet other residents, who may become fast friends.

Retirement Never Looked So Good

Retirement is a big change, but it’s also an excellent opportunity to explore new things and broaden your horizons. Verena at Leander is the perfect place to embrace this change and have fun doing it.

Why retire in Leander, Texas? Speak with one of our team members to find out. We look forward to hearing from you.