If you're already living near the University of Texas at Austin, you know the apartments near the campus can be small and pricy. Looking for apartments outside Austin, TX, can open up options with more room. The Bower is located about 15 miles north of campus in Pflugerville, TX. It’s an easy drive on State Highway 130 and I-35. It’s a great choice if you want to trade a cramped unit for a one-, two-, or three-bedroom home. This guide covers the details.

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Getting to UT Austin from Pflugerville

Driving routes by way of State Highway 130 and I-35

Pflugerville is roughly 14 miles northeast of downtown Austin. State Highway 130 gives you a quick connection south. I-35 carries you the rest of the way into campus. Depending on traffic, plan on 20 to 25 minutes door to door. Many apartments near Austin are in the middle of downtown congestion and have limited parking. From Pflugerville, you get a more predictable drive instead.

Nearby transit options served by Capital Metro

If you'd like to skip the drive, Capital Metro's Route 1 bus goes from Pflugerville into downtown Austin. The UT's West Mall Station is a convenient stop. There is service about every 30 minutes. UT students, faculty, and staff ride free with a valid UT ID. It is a solid option on days you'd rather not deal with parking near campus.

Life in Pflugerville Beyond Campus

Parks and recreation: Lake Pflugerville and Gilleland Creek Park

When you need a break, Lake Pflugerville the spot to visit. It offers swimming, fishing, and trail access that makes for a relaxing outdoor excursion. Gilleland Creek Park has a pool, picnic pavilions, and a play space. Both give you outdoor options without a trip all the way into Austin.

Dining and entertainment: Texas Roadhouse, Cinemark, and Spare Time Texas

Closer to home, you'll find Texas Roadhouse and a handful of other local restaurants. There is also the Cinemark Pflugerville for a movie night. When you don’t feel like a flick, Spare Time Texas has bowling and arcade games. It's the kind of everyday variety that makes Pflugerville feel like its own community, not an extension of Austin.

Choosing a Home Near UT Austin

One-, two-, and three-bedroom floor plans at The Bower

If you've been comparing apartments near downtown Austin, floor plans here tend to give you more square footage for the price. Some can give you extra space for a dedicated den or a guest room. The Bower offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and luxury vinyl-plank flooring. Select units include a built-in desk and full-size washer/dryer.

Amenities that support a connected lifestyle

Community amenities are built around staying connected without leaving home. There are personal focus rooms, a reservable conference room, a fitness center with Peloton equipment, and a resort-style pool. Outdoors, there is a pickleball court, two pet parks, and an outdoor kitchen. With all this, it's easy to see how The Bower supports a well-rounded routine.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is The Bower from UT Austin?

The Bower is about 15 miles from UT Austin. This typically means a 20- to 25-minute drive on State Highway 130 and I-35, depending on traffic.

What is the best route to campus?

Most residents take State Highway 130 south and connect to I-35 into campus. Capital Metro's Route 1 bus is an alternative way to get there as well. 

Ready to see it for yourself? Explore floor plans or schedule a tour at The Bower today.