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Buda, Texas: Unlocking Retail Growth and Community Development for Forward-Thinking Investors and Tenants

As a developer and community builder dedicated to creating meaningful, thriving spaces, I see Buda, Texas, as more than just a growing city — it’s a land of opportunity where retail, community, and economic vitality converge.

Located just 15 miles south of Austin along the I-35 corridor, Buda is experiencing rapid growth and transformation. With a population now exceeding 16,000 and a regional population surpassing 2.5 million in the Austin metro, the potential here is undeniable. Our local economic development team is committed to supporting those who want to be part of Buda’s exciting future through incentives, efficient permitting, and a dedicated focus on community-driven growth.

Why I Believe Buda is the Perfect Place to Invest or Expand Your Business

Strategic Location & Accessibility:
Buda sits at a major crossroads, with over 100,000 vehicles passing daily on I-35, a vital corridor for trade and travel. It’s within the Texas Triangle, reaching Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio — three of Texas’s largest markets — making logistics and distribution straightforward. Just 20 miles from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and 182 miles from the Port of Houston, Buda offers unmatched connectivity for business.

Growing Community & Strong Market Potential:
Our city has transformed from a quaint town of fewer than 2,000 residents in 1990 to a bustling hub with over 16,000 residents today. More importantly, Buda is part of the Austin Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), which boasts a population exceeding 2.5 million people as of 2024. The Austin MSA continues to experience rapid growth, making Buda’s community even more attractive for retail and commercial development. Driven by migration, economic opportunities, and a robust local economy, our region offers a vast and expanding customer base eager for new retail, dining, and entertainment options. With an average household income over $108,000, Buda residents are among a highly engaged and affluent market ready to support your business.

High Demand for Retail & Community Space:
A retail leakage study from 2013 identified over $247 million in unmet retail demand annually — a clear signal that Buda’s market is primed for new development in dining, shopping, and entertainment.

Supporting a Thriving Business Environment

Our local Economic Development Corporation (EDC), established in 2001, is passionate about fostering growth while preserving Buda’s small-town charm. Here’s what makes our environment attractive:

  • Generous Incentives: From tax abatements and sales tax grants to impact fee waivers and forgivable loans, the EDC offers tailored incentives that help reduce upfront costs and boost your ROI.
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  • Streamlined Permitting & Development: Our “City Navigator” team provides hands-on support, making the process of permitting, zoning, and plans review smooth and efficient. Many sites are shovel-ready, ready for your project.
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  • Cost-Effective Operating Environment: Property taxes are below the Texas average, utility rates are competitive, and overall cost of living remains affordable — all factors that support higher profit margins.
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  • Proven Retail Success: Major brands like Walmart, H-E-B, and Cabela’s thrive here, alongside vibrant local markets and innovative projects like the 11+ acre retail center anchored by CVS.

Exciting Retail Opportunities

Whether you’re seeking to establish a flagship downtown boutique, open a high-traffic retail hub along I-35, or tap into the growing Sunfield master-planned community, Buda has options:

  • The historic Downtown district offers curated art, unique shops, and destination dining.
  • The I-35 corridor features national retailers and planned developments aimed at specialty and high-end retail.
  • The Sunfield community is quickly becoming a demand-driven marketplace, with thousands of residents projected in the coming years.
  • Currently, there are over 120,000 square feet of retail space available for lease or sale, with flexible zoning and infrastructure support.

Building a Community with Passion & Purpose

Buda isn’t just a good place to do business — it’s a community where people want to live, work, and play. Our educated workforce, with nearly 50% holding bachelor’s degrees, coupled with strategic partnerships with local colleges and business resources, ensures your retail venture will thrive in a vibrant and collaborative environment.

Our success stories include the Buda Mill & Grain mixed-use development, Pinballz Kingdom, and major distribution centers like Amazon and US Foods — all testament to Buda’s growth and strategic importance.

This Is the Moment – Why You Should Get Involved Now

  • The market demand is high, and infrastructure investments are making growth easier.
  • Incentives and local support are designed to reduce risk and accelerate success.
  • Beautiful parks, outdoor lifestyle options, and a community-focused atmosphere make Buda attractive to residents and visitors alike.

Take the Next Step


Buda is poised for remarkable growth, and I invite you to be part of our vibrant community’s future. Let’s work together to build the retail destination that Buda deserves — a place where community and business thrive side by side. The future of retail in Buda starts with you — don’t miss out on this exciting moment.

Why Retail Tenants Are Choosing Roundabout in Buda: A Premier Retail Destination in Buda, Texas

Buda, Texas, is fast becoming a retail hotspot, and Roundabout in Buda, a 64,000-square-foot retail development, is drawing significant interest from retail tenants. Strategically located close the bustling I-35 corridor, just 15 miles south of Austin, this project is designed to be a vibrant community hub, offering diverse dining, shopping, and entertainment for all ages. With Phase 1 breaking ground soon and Phase 2 already generating strong interest, retailers are eager to secure their spot in this high-potential destination. Here’s why Roundabout Buda is the top choice for retail tenants looking to thrive in a growing market.

A Community Hub with Unmatched Appeal

Roundabout Buda is more than a retail center—it’s a destination where families, professionals, and visitors come together. The development features:

  • Restaurants catering to a variety of tastes, including a flagship venue with pickleball and volleyball courts and large play areas for kids, making it a go-to gathering spot for families in the suburbs, just minutes from Austin.
  • A coffee shop perfect for morning crowds and remote workers.
  • An ice cream shop to attract families and sweet-tooth enthusiasts.
  • Unique retail offerings, such as home goods and jewelry stores, featuring local and artisanal products.

This diverse, family-friendly mix ensures Roundabout Buda will draw consistent foot traffic, providing tenants with a steady customer base and a dynamic environment to showcase their brands.

Phases 1 and 2: Strong Momentum and Tenant Confidence

Retail tenants are flocking to Phase 1, which will deliver 24,000 square feet across five buildings, with groundbreaking imminent. This phase has already secured 50% of its space through letters of intent and pre-leases, reflecting strong market demand and tenant confidence. Similarly, Phase 2 is gaining significant traction, with 46% of its space already spoken for through letters of intent and pre-leases. This early commitment across both phases highlights Roundabout Buda’s appeal as a prime location for retailers looking to establish or expand their presence in a high-growth area.

Buda: A Business-Friendly Retail Haven

The Buda Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and the City of Buda create an ideal environment for retail success, making Roundabout Buda a tenant favorite. The EDC supports businesses with:

  • Competitive incentives, such as small business grants up to $10,000 per year and performance-based incentives.
  • Site selection assistance and workforce training programs to help tenants succeed.
  • Streamlined permitting processes, enabling faster store openings.

Buda’s low tax burden, reasonable operating costs, and predictable regulations further enhance its appeal. The EDC’s partnerships with organizations like The Retail Coach to attract and retain retailers align seamlessly with Roundabout Buda’s vision, ensuring tenants have the support they need to thrive.

Booming Demographics and Retail Demand

Buda’s explosive growth and underserved retail market make Roundabout Buda a strategic choice for tenants. Key market factors include:

  • Population Growth: Buda’s population has surged over 200% in the past decade, reaching 15,108 in 2020, with continued growth projected.
  • Housing Surge: Nearly 9,000 homes are built or planned within a 2-mile radius of the site over the next 3-4 years, creating a large and growing customer base.
  • Retail Shortage: A 2013 study identified over $247 million in annual retail leakage, highlighting a significant undersupply of retail options in Buda—a gap Roundabout Buda will fill.
  • High Traffic Exposure: The site benefits from a daily traffic count of approximately 20,000 vehicles, ensuring exceptional visibility and accessibility along I-35.

With a median household income of $111,179 and a highly educated workforce, Buda’s residents have the purchasing power to support diverse retail and dining experiences, making Roundabout Buda a tenant’s dream location.

Prime Location and Connectivity

Roundabout Buda’s location at the intersection of I-35 and SH-45 is a major draw for retail tenants. Key advantages include:

  • Proximity to Austin: Just 15 miles from downtown Austin and 17 miles from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, tapping into a major metropolitan market.
  • Regional Access: Easy connections to San Antonio, Dallas, and Houston via I-35, positioning Buda as a Central Texas gateway.
  • Infrastructure Improvements: Recent federal funding of $1.6 million is enhancing nearby Robert S. Light Boulevard, improving access for customers.

This prime location ensures Roundabout Buda will attract both local residents and regional visitors, driving high foot traffic and sales potential for tenants.

A Vision for Community Integration

Roundabout Buda aligns with Buda’s Our Buda, Our Future Comprehensive Plan (2024), which emphasizes sustainable growth while preserving the city’s unique charm. By offering family-friendly amenities like pickleball courts and kids’ play areas, the development creates a welcoming space that resonates with Buda’s community spirit. Tenants benefit from being part of a destination that enhances the local quality of life and fosters customer loyalty.

Why Retail Tenants Are Choosing Roundabout Buda

  • Proven Demand: 50% of Phase 1 and 46% of Phase 2 are pre-leased or under letters of intent, showcasing strong retailer interest and market strength.
  • High-Growth Market: Buda’s population boom, housing growth, and retail shortage create a captive audience for tenants.
  • Prime Visibility: High traffic along I-35 ensures maximum brand exposure and customer draw.
  • Supportive Ecosystem: The Buda EDC and City of Buda provide incentives and resources to drive tenant success.
  • Community Appeal: Family-friendly amenities and a vibrant atmosphere make Roundabout Buda a beloved destination, boosting tenant sales.

Secure Your Spot at Roundabout Buda Now—Don’t Miss Out!

Retail tenants are choosing Roundabout Buda for its unbeatable location, robust market demand, and community-focused vision. With Phase 1 breaking ground soon and 50% pre-leased, and Phase 2 already 46% spoken for, spaces are filling up fast. We are committed to curating a diverse mix of businesses that complement each other without competing, ensuring every tenant thrives. Don’t delay—opportunities like this won’t last long! Contact our leasing team today, contact options located on the website, to secure your place in Buda’s premier retail destination. Join the retail revolution at Roundabout Buda before the opportunity is gone!


Sources: Buda Economic Development Corporation, City of Buda, U.S. Census Bureau, The Retail Coach

Buda’s Thriving Business Environment: Insights from the Panel Discussion

Buda’s Thriving Development: Key Insights from Industry Leaders

Panel Discussion Date: March 28, 2025
Panelists:

  • Leigh Ellis, Principal, Aquila Commercial
  • Mitchell Becker, Senior Vice President, Stream Realty Partners
  • Tim Dowling, Broker, Beyond the Move Realty & The Roundabout in Buda
  • Ryder Jeanes, Broker, CLD Realty

Moderators: Abby Mellott, Market President & Publisher, Austin Business Journal; Jennifer Storm, CEO, Buda Economic Development Corporation.

Emerging Developments in Buda

  • Aquila Commercial is developing the Buda Midway, a 474,000-square-foot industrial facility targeting distribution and manufacturing, with 100% occupancy upon Phase 1 delivery in 2022.
  • Stream Realty has delivered nearly a million square feet of industrial space, attracting larger companies like Siete and smaller tenants in food distribution and manufacturing.
  • Tim Dowling is breaking ground on a 64,000-square-foot community retail center that focuses on local businesses and family-oriented amenities.

Key Features Driving Growth

  • Community-Centered Projects: The focus on creating walkable, family-friendly destinations that connect local populations to services and amenities.
  • Connectivity: Key features include trails and walkways that foster easy access to nearby residential areas.
  • Sustainability and Modern Facilities: Emphasis on environmentally friendly designs and quality construction, appealing to companies seeking modern workspaces.

Financial Insights

  • Average Household Income: Buda features an average household income significantly above the national average, with many residents reporting income levels well above $100,000.
  • Residential Growth: The community is experiencing substantial growth, with over 15,000 homes planned in the greater Buda area and additional developments like 2,200 homes at Persimmon and 800+ homes in nearby projects.

Role of Incentives in Development

  • Incentives are Crucial: Developers noted that financial incentives play a significant role in attracting businesses, helping to attract new tenants while keeping operating costs manageable.
  • Competitive Packages: City incentives are vital for competing with other municipalities. Developers find flexibility and resource availability in Buda attractive.

Buda’s Unique Market Position

  • Buda is recognized as “budget-friendly” compared to nearby areas, particularly due to rising costs in Austin.
  • Substantial residential growth continues, presenting significant opportunities for retail and commercial project developments as the population increases.

Challenges Ahead

  • Utility Management: With ongoing growth, managing water and power resources remains essential.
  • Land Lock Issues: The limited available space poses challenges for future expansion; optimizing existing spaces is critical.
  • Infrastructure Needs: Improving connectivity and infrastructure on the east side is important to accommodate future developments.

Positive Sentiment from Developers

  • Industry leaders expressed strong confidence in Buda’s business-friendly environment, with efficient permitting processes and alignment with community goals.
  • Strategic Location: Buda’s position between major highways, making it appealing for logistics and distribution companies.

Takeaways from the Panel

  • Industry Growth is fueled by a local workforce and increasing household incomes.
  • Long-Term Vision: Leaders emphasized the importance of collaborating with the city to create a thriving economic environment while maintaining Buda’s unique character.

Conclusion

Buda is highlighted as a community full of potential, driven by strong leadership, a commitment to developmental integrity, and a focus on meeting the needs of its growing population.

Why Everyone’s Talking About Buda, Texas: A Local’s Guide to Life in the Outdoor Capital of the Lone Star State

Do you ever dream of living in a place where life slows down just enough for you to enjoy it—without sacrificing access to city conveniences?

Welcome to Buda, Texas—a fast-growing suburb just south of Austin where families ride bikes on tree-lined trails, entrepreneurs launch big ideas, and the scent of smoked barbecue fills the air on Sunday afternoons.

Nicknamed the “Outdoor Capital of Texas,” Buda offers that rare mix of natural charm, economic opportunity, and small-town heart. And with thousands of people relocating to Central Texas every year, Buda is standing out as one of the smartest (and most soulful) places to live.

Here’s why more buyers, sellers, and homeowners are taking a closer look at Buda—and why you might fall in love with it too.


Where is Buda, Texas?

Buda sits about 20 minutes south of downtown Austin, tucked right along I-35 in Hays County. While once considered a pit stop between San Antonio and Austin, Buda has blossomed into a destination of its own—one with beautiful parks, a thriving job scene, and a growing sense of identity.

Whether you’re commuting to Austin tech campuses, working remotely, or building a business locally, Buda offers an unbeatable combination of access, affordability, and atmosphere.

It’s the kind of place where:

  • Kids still play in the front yard
  • Neighbors wave from their porch
  • And downtown festivals light up the community calendar

🛠️ What’s Fueling Buda’s Boom?

Let’s talk jobs and growth—because this little city is making big moves.

1. Business is Booming
Major players like US Foods and Amazon have already invested in Buda, and the momentum hasn’t slowed. In late 2024, electric vehicle manufacturer Futronic announced a $17M investment to open its first U.S. location here. Add in over 3 million square feet of industrial space currently under development, and it’s clear: Buda is becoming a major player in the Central Texas economy.

2. Smart Redevelopment
In a bold move, H-E-B proposed a 135,000 sq ft store on a former landfill. It’s a unique project—featuring BBQ, pharmacy, and green spaces—and a testament to how Buda is tackling growth with sustainability in mind.

3. A Culinary Scene with Character
BBQ lovers, rejoice: Salt Lick BBQ is opening a brand-new concept called Roxie’s, offering family-style meals inspired by the owner’s grandmother. It’s just one of many small but meaningful changes bringing fresh energy to Buda’s local flavor.


🏡 Real Estate in Buda: What Can You Expect?

The Buda real estate market is one of the most dynamic in the region. As demand in Austin continues to rise, Buda offers a more accessible entry point without compromising on lifestyle.

Here’s what buyers are loving:

  • New construction homes in planned communities with trails, splash pads, and HOA amenities
  • Charming resale homes in quiet cul-de-sacs or with mature landscaping
  • Larger lots and acreage just outside city limits for those seeking a little elbow room

Search terms like “Buda homes for sale,” “78610 homes,” or “best neighborhoods in Buda for families” are trending—and for good reason. You can still find great value here, and the inventory includes everything from starter homes to luxury estates.


🏞️ Why It’s Called the Outdoor Capital

You don’t earn the title of Outdoor Capital of Texas without showing up in a big way—and Buda does exactly that.

Parks and Trails Galore
From Long Branch Park to Stagecoach Park, Buda’s green spaces are well-loved and well-maintained. There are playgrounds, picnic areas, shaded walking paths, and dog parks scattered throughout the city. A recent grant from Texas Parks and Wildlife is funding new pickleball courts and ADA-compliant trails, making outdoor fun even more accessible.

A Walkable Downtown with Weekend Vibes
Historic Downtown Buda offers a cozy, walkable vibe—with boutiques, cafes, and wine bars tucked into 19th-century buildings. On weekends, it comes alive with live music, farmers markets, and festivals like the annual Buda Birthday Celebration.

Outdoor Living is a Lifestyle Here
From porch swings to community gardens, living in Buda often means spending more time outside. Families bike to local parks, friends gather at food trucks, and sunset walks aren’t just a nice idea—they’re part of everyday life.


🎓 Schools, Safety & Family Appeal

Families continue to flock to Buda thanks to its reputation for safety and its access to quality schools within Hays Consolidated Independent School District (HCISD).

While Buda isn’t immune to the occasional headline (as with the 2024 Shadow Creek shooting ruled self-defense), crime rates remain low relative to other rapidly growing cities. Police and fire departments are proactive, and emergency response—like the quick containment of the 150-acre Onion Creek Fire in 2025—has proven both coordinated and effective.

Local families appreciate:

  • Strong community watch and city involvement
  • Thoughtful infrastructure upgrades, such as storm-ready roads
  • Walkable neighborhoods with playgrounds, schools, and greenspace nearby

🎶 Culture, Character & Community Spirit

One of Buda’s standout qualities is how much locals care about preserving its soul—even as the skyline changes.

In 2025, Buda earned the title of Music Friendly Texas Community, joining a growing list of cities that prioritize live music and local arts. Events like open mic nights, neighborhood block parties, and city-run festivals make it easy to connect with neighbors and discover hidden talents.

Even when the weather gets tough—like the deep freeze of February 2025—businesses pivot, neighbors pitch in, and the city adapts. That kind of resilience says a lot about the people who call Buda home.


🚨 Growth Comes with Challenges

Of course, no city is perfect. And as Buda grows, it faces real pressure:

  • Infrastructure must keep up with demand (especially water supply)
  • Environmental risks, like fire and drought, require long-term planning
  • Housing affordability is shifting as demand increases

There are also valid concerns about how large-scale development might impact Buda’s small-town charm. It’s something locals and city leaders are keeping a close eye on—and it’s part of the reason Buda is investing in smart, sustainable growth strategies.


Is Buda Right for You?

Buda, Texas, offers a unique mix of accessibility, authenticity, and opportunity. It’s close enough to Austin to stay connected to city life but far enough to find peace, space, and affordability. And more importantly, it’s a place where people show up—for each other, for their community, and for the future of their town.

Whether you’re buying, selling, relocating, or investing, Buda is a city to watch—and a place to call home.