Discover new homes for sale in San Marcos, where the hill country meets the river, and Austin’s creative spirit rolls downstream. San Marcos blends natural beauty, small-town warmth, and university energy into something entirely unique—and entirely Texan.
Whether you prefer a quieter pace or the pulse of the city, Empire builds homes where you want to be.
Perched on the edge of Austin’s southern frontier, San Marcos is more than a pretty stop along the I-35—it’s a town where spring-fed waters carve out a lifestyle that’s bold, easygoing, and built to last. You’ll find families laying roots on wide open lots, students and entrepreneurs drawn to Texas State University, and locals gathering downtown for live music and good food in The Square. Whether you’re casting a line at Sewell Park or sipping coffee before class, life in San Marcos feels personal and peaceful. Empire welcomes you to San Marcos, where you’re just a short drive from the buzz of Austin’s cultural core.
Here, the outdoors aren’t just nearby—they are the neighborhood. The San Marcos River is a year-round invitation to paddle, swim, or float your worries away. Spring Lake Preserve offers glass-bottom boat tours and wildlife in every direction, while Purgatory Creek Natural Area crisscrosses through limestone canyons and oak groves. Ringtail Ridge tempts quiet wanderers with shady paths, and Rio Vista Park is made for long lunches and lazy afternoons. In San Marcos, the world outside your door is the reason you step out in the first place.
San Marcos puts you within arm’s reach of everything that matters—in either direction. I-35 stretches north to Austin and south to San Antonio, giving you the freedom to explore, commute, or just wander where the day takes you. Downtown and Texas State University are walkable, bikeable, and CARTS-connected, while local shops, parks, and schools are all close to home. Amtrak service makes regional travel simple, and Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is just up the road when business or adventure calls. In San Marcos, you’re right where Texas comes together—and always moving at your own pace.
Gather at dusk for a sky full of wonder. Watch as 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats rise in swirling flight from beneath the bridge—an only-in-Austin spectacle locals relish.
This beloved swimming hole in Zilker Park stays a crisp 68 degrees year-round. A perfect place to cool off, lay back, and share space with locals and established acts alike.
Start with Franklin Barbecue’s brisket then wander toward 1,200 food trucks, craft coffee shops, and patio dinners. South Congress is where Austin eats, meets, and keeps it cool.
From misty mornings along the San Marcos River to summer nights lit up by music in the park, this town knows how to slow things down and make every moment count. Strolls through The Square turn into concerts, festivals, and holiday lights—where neighbors gather, bands play, and memories linger like laughter in the air. Empire Homes is proud to welcome you to San Marcos—where Austin’s creative spark meets small-town spirit, and life flows a little smoother under the shade of old trees and the sound of live music echoing through the streets.
From local favorites to everyday living, explore what makes this area truly special. Our articles offer insights and inspiration to help you feel connected to the place you’ll call home.
Finding the right home is a journey, and every stage comes with questions. Whether you’re just starting to explore, considering a move, ready to buy, or settling in, our curated guides, blogs, tools, and expert insights help you navigate each step with clarity.
At this stage, you’re exploring the possibilities. Maybe you’re curious about homeownership...
At this stage, you’re exploring the possibilities. Maybe you’re curious about homeownership...
At this stage, you’re exploring the possibilities. Maybe you’re curious about homeownership...
At this stage, you’re exploring the possibilities. Maybe you’re curious about homeownership...
“We cannot say enough great things about this company. We worked with Kristen and Tim closely to build our dream home and they exceeded our wildest expectations! As opposed to other builders we’ve heard about, our crew was always on schedule and we were updated consistently throughout the process. So grateful for them!”
MCKAY M.
Heirloom, Atlanta, GA
“We cannot say enough great things about this company. We worked with Kristen and Tim closely to build our dream home and they exceeded our wildest expectations! As opposed to other builders we’ve heard about, our crew was always on schedule and we were updated consistently throughout the process. So grateful for them!”
MCKAY M.
Heirloom, Atlanta, GA
“We cannot say enough great things about this company. We worked with Kristen and Tim closely to build our dream home and they exceeded our wildest expectations! As opposed to other builders we’ve heard about, our crew was always on schedule and we were updated consistently throughout the process. So grateful for them!”
MCKAY M.
Heirloom, Atlanta, GA
Hear what other homeowners are saying about us in the state of Texas, based on Google Reviews from all of our communities in Houston, Austin, and San Antonio.
For over 30 years, Empire Homes has been crafting homes and neighbourhoods designed to inspire growth and connection.
As one of North America’s largest privately held homebuilders, we’ve built over 38,000 homes across more than 100 vibrant communities.
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Interested in making this home yours? Fill out the form below, and one of our New Home Specialists will reach out within 24 hours to set up an appointment or schedule a tour.
Fill out the form below, and one of our New Home Specialists will reach out within 24 hours to set up an appointment or schedule a tour.