RioT

Holly is the most conveniently located neighborhood in Austin. I live right in the middle of the neighborhood, and am very pleased. I am walking distance to all the restaurants and bars along E. 5th, 6th, and 7th streets, as well as Cesar Chavez. Going downtown is also possible to walk, very quick on bike, and about a 5 minute drive. Not to mention less than 15 minutes from the airport (without any airplane noise!).

Most streets are tree-lined, and I have never had any trouble finding parking on the residential streets. As the commercial streets become increasing popular for nightlife and shopping, it can be a bit difficult to park directly on main streets during peak hours.

If you enjoy an active lifestyle, Holly is bordered by the hike & bike trail along the river. Many people actively jog and walk their dogs along the water. Also, in recent years, there have been a few gyms that have opened, such as Fortitude Fitness and Atomic Fitness.

Many old-timers have a misconception that the neighborhood is dangerous. In my experience, this simply isn't the case. I don't doubt that it used to be this way, but not any more. The neighborhood is gentrifying to the extent that it is safe to walk the streets at night. I have never felt threatened, never heard gunshots, and have never seen any criminal activity take place (in the past 6 months since moving to Holly).

Lastly, the affordability of Holly is what brought me here initially. The homes can be a bit small, but this is in line with my lifestyle at the moment. Not accumulating 'stuff' that needs space, I can afford an attractive home with a nice yard that can't be found anywhere else so close to all the areas of Austin I value being close to (downtown, Zilker park, South Austin, University, East Austin, airport). This goes for both renting and owning.