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Castle Forest, San Marcos,TX

Neighborhood Data
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Castle Forest in San Marcos, TX, is a charming neighborhood that offers a perfect blend of suburban tranquility and convenient city living. Nestled in the southeast part of San Marcos, this community is ideal for families, young professionals, and anyone looking to settle into a friendly and welcoming environment. One of the standout features of Castle Forest is its beautiful, tree-lined streets and well-maintained homes, which create a peaceful atmosphere that’s hard to find in more urban settings. Residents often enjoy leisurely walks, bike rides, and the close-knit feel that makes this neighborhood more than just a place to live—it’s a place to call home.

If you love the outdoors, Castle Forest won’t disappoint. The neighborhood is close to several parks and green spaces, including the popular Purgatory Creek Natural Area, which offers miles of hiking and biking trails amidst scenic Texas Hill Country landscapes. For families, nearby schools are highly rated, making the area a great choice for those with children. Additionally, Castle Forest is just a short drive from the San Marcos Premium Outlets, where you can indulge in shopping from a variety of brand-name stores. When it comes to dining and entertainment, the neighborhood’s proximity to larger commercial areas means you have easy access to local eateries, coffee shops, and recreational activities.

One of the biggest advantages of living in Castle Forest is its convenient distance to Downtown San Marcos, roughly a 10 to 15-minute drive. This means you can enjoy the vibrant downtown scene with its unique boutiques, live music venues, and a variety of restaurants without sacrificing the peace of suburban life. Whether you’re attending a Texas State University event, exploring the San Marcos River, or simply enjoying a weekend farmers' market, Castle Forest’s location makes it easy to experience everything the city has to offer. For anyone relocating to San Marcos, Castle Forest represents a fantastic option, combining comfort, convenience, and community spirit in one lovely neighborhood.

Community Snapshot

Population 662
Density (People/sqml.) 171
Median Age 40.5
Married Couples
42%
42% of the population of Castle Forest aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
16%
16% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

16% of the Castle Forest population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 16% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Age Breakdown

Castle Forest neighborhood age breakdown chart

Castle Forest demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 662 residents, Castle Forest is notably smaller than many other San Marcos neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

With a lower than average population density of 171 people per square mile, Castle Forest offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other San Marcos neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

With an average age of 41, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

Crime in Castle Forest

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Types of Crime

Castle Forest neighborhood age breakdown chart

Castle Forest Crime Map

The Castle Forest crime map provides an in-depth look at crime rates throughout the community, using block group data to reveal both safer pockets and places with more frequent incidents. By visualizing these patterns, the crime map helps residents and newcomers alike better understand the dynamics of neighborhood safety. It’s worth noting that higher-crime areas on the map aren’t always indicative of danger — spots near busy commercial centers, transportation hubs, or popular attractions may naturally show more reports due to increased activity.

Housing

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Home Price $333,025
Median Rent $1,554
People/Household 2.6

Home Price Breakdown

Castle Forest neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 34% Own 66%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 61% After 2010 39%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Castle Forest, the median home price is about $333,025, which is on par with many comparable areas. This average pricing reflects a stable, affordable housing market and makes the neighborhood an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers seeking both value and long-term potential. Examining how home prices and appreciation rates in Castle Forest have shifted over time can reveal important clues about the neighborhood’s future value. These trends help potential buyers and investors understand market momentum and determine whether the area is likely to deliver strong returns over the long term.

With an average rent price of $1,554, rental rates in Castle Forest are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Wake the Dead Coffee House
Coffee Shop
min.
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Jo's Cafe
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Grandmother's tree
Attraction
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Texas Wildlife Petting Park
Zoo
min.
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Food & Drink

Jack's Roadhouse
Bar
min.
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Chick-fil-A
Fast Food
min.
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Groceries

Phoenix Rising Bakery
Bakery
min.
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H-E-B
Grocery Store
min.
min.

Parks

Jaycees Park
Park
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Franklin Square Park
Park
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Shops

Convenience Store
Convenience Store
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Stripes
Convenience Store
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

Bus Stop
Bus Stop
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LBJ
Bus Stop
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Transit Stations

San Marcos
Transit Station
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Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

H-E-B Pharmacy
Pharmacy
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B & J Pharmacy
Pharmacy
min.
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Health Care

San Marcos Family Dentistry
Dentist
min.
min.
Sullivan & Carothers Dental: Carothers Corey DDS
Dentist
min.
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Safety

Pecan Building (PECN)
Police
min.
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San Marcos Fire Station 2
Fire Station
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Ki Charter Academy
120 Bert Brown Rd, San Marcos, TX
High School 2 - 12 School Score
The Master'S School
1664 Center Point Rd, San Marcos, TX
Elementary School KG - 7 School Score
Mendez El
1805 Peter Garza, San Marcos, TX
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
San Marcos H S
2601 Rattler Rd Mccarty Ln, San Marcos, TX
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Jhw Inspire Academy - Hays County
2250 Clovis R Barker Rd, San Marcos, TX
High School 6 - 12 School Score
San Marcos Adventist Junior Academy
1523 Old Ranch Rd 12, San Marcos, TX
High School KG - 10 School Score
Bonham Pre-K School
1225 Hwy 123, San Marcos, TX
Elementary School PK - PK School Score

Education Level Achieved

Education is a key factor in understanding the character and opportunities within a community like Castle Forest. School ratings here reflect important indicators such as academic performance, graduation outcomes, and standardized testing, while NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores offer a valuable national comparison to gauge how local schools measure up. Looking at the overall education level of residents in Castle Forest can also provide meaningful insight into the neighborhood’s focus on learning and long-term growth, helping families choose a community that aligns with their educational goals.

Economy

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Income Per Capita $37,615
Household Income $103,573
Unemployment 4.7%

Income Breakdown

Castle Forest Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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The economic makeup of a neighborhood often tells a deeper story about its lifestyle, opportunities, and overall character. In Castle Forest, median household incomes average $103,573, which is higher than many surrounding neighborhoods. This elevated earning power helps support a more upscale environment, offering residents access to premium amenities, well-maintained surroundings, and a standard of living that emphasizes comfort and quality.

The employment landscape offers valuable insight into the stability and economic health of a neighborhood. In Castle Forest, the unemployment rate sits at around 5%, which is about average compared to many other areas. This balanced rate reflects a steady local economy and a reliable foundation for residents and businesses alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the overall lifestyle like?

Castle Forest in San Marcos, TX offers a relaxed suburban lifestyle with a strong emphasis on family-friendly living. Residents enjoy proximity to outdoor activities such as hiking and picnicking at nearby Purgatory Creek Natural Area, while also benefiting from easy access to the vibrant city amenities of San Marcos. The neighborhood is perfect for those who appreciate a balance between nature and modern conveniences.

Are there any community events or local gatherings throughout the year?

Yes, Castle Forest residents often participate in community events organized by the San Marcos Parks and Recreation Department. Popular local gatherings include seasonal farmers markets, outdoor movie nights at Purgatory Creek Park, and neighborhood holiday celebrations. These events foster a strong sense of connection among neighbors and provide fun opportunities for families and individuals alike.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Castle Forest is conveniently located near Interstate 35, providing quick access north to Austin and south to San Antonio. This makes commuting or weekend trips very accessible for residents. Additionally, Capital Metro Transit offers bus services in the San Marcos area, although most residents rely on personal vehicles due to the suburban nature of the neighborhood.

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