The vibrant metropolis of Austin, Texas, famous for its world-class music scene, sumptuous dining, and the sprawling University of Texas campus, has been quietly climbing the charts as the latest hotspot for celebrity residents. Boasting a reputation as one of the coolest cities in the U.S., it is no surprise that several A-list stars have selected Austin as their home. Below, we embark on a guided tour of the celebrity homes in Austin, stopping by the luxurious estates of some of the most celebrated names in Hollywood who have settled in this lively, fantastic Texan city.
Emma Stone’s West Austin mansion
In May 2021, actress Emma Stone, known for roles in La La Land and recipient of an Academy Award, a Golden Globe Award, and a British Academy Film Award, bought a mansion in West Austin. In 2017, Stone was the world’s highest-paid actress, and it’s rumored that her Austin home is valued somewhere between $7 million and $8 million.
Stone’s mansion is a 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom house situated on a 1.24-acre lot. It’s reported the property also houses a swimming pool, formal gardens, and a detached garage.
Joe Rogan's Austin Xanadu
Popular podcast host and comedian Joe Rogan happily merged with the Austin celebrity home scene through his $14.4 million, 10,980-square-foot mansion. Beautifully transformed by designer Benjamin Wood, the property features an elegant fusion of East meets West, adorned with antique Eastern furniture — a touch that perfectly suits Rogan's tastes and sensibilities. It almost seems the house was custom-built for Rogan, given its beige plaster walls in the entryway transformed into shiplap and an interior redesigned to showcase an open floor plan.
The heart of the house boasts a humongous dining table, living room, and library that all share one grand, open space. The open floor plan exudes a calm ambiance heightened by deep, designer blue walls and ceilings. Meanwhile, the two kitchen islands, rustic farmhouse-style light fixtures, and recessed lighting contribute both functionality and style to the home. Further enhancing the dining experience is a large farmhouse-style table, accessorized with eye-catching dining chairs. Per the mid-century modern aesthetic, the rear of the house features floor-to-ceiling glass walls, integrating the outdoors seamlessly. The rustic wooden pillars and an exposed wooden ceiling contribute a touch of rustic charm that resonates with Austin's atmosphere.
Rogan's personal workout haven is a custom-built home gym by Sorinex, known for its premium weights, racks, and high-end machines. This sacred space is now recognizable to many fans through its appearance in Rogan's podcast videos on YouTube. A welcoming outdoor lounge area with an in-ground pool is comfortably nestled amid a canopy of trees beside a stonework patio with (purposefully grown to further the rustic vibe) tufts of grass peeking through the cracks. Moreover, the property sports the luxury of an extensive double lot, enjoying 300 feet of water frontage adjoining Lake Austin. Ultimately, Rogan's property is an incredible mix of personal tastes, designer touches, and distinct Texan charm — a dream home indeed.
Jensen Ackles' Hill Country Dream home
Nestled on the lakeside, the Austin residence of "Supernatural" star Jensen Ackles embodies Texan charm and elegant comfort. Constructed in the 1960s, this 7,500-square-foot estate underwent a significant transformation from a Tuscan-inspired villa into a stunning ranch-style abode, thanks to the collaborative efforts of Paul Lamb Architects and Crowell Builders.
The eye-catching family room stands out with its magnificent arched oak beams and a dual-sided fireplace shared with the dining area. Additionally, the home's gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring top-of-the-line appliances and an inviting island surrounded by bar seating. Beyond the living and family rooms, the estate includes a casual lounge space adorned with its own bar.
The expansive primary suite features hand-scraped oak flooring throughout the home, while the sitting area walls are covered entirely in reclaimed barn wood, adding a rustic touch. The master ensuite pairs luxurious amenities such as a glass stall shower and freestanding tub with a breathtaking view of Lake Austin.
The outdoor living space of Ackles' home is nothing short of spectacular. Picture a massive two-story screened-in porch that serves as an entertainer's paradise, decorated with beautiful four-foot lanterns sourced from the estate of the late Tony Duquette. This outdoor retreat offers stunning views of Lake Austin and overlooks a serene nature preserve across the lake.
This lakeside haven is more than just a celebrity's residence; it is a testament to the harmonious blend of Southern charm, modern elegance, and the serenity of nature, making Jensen Ackles' home a sight to behold.
Lance Armstrong's Spanish colonial mansion
Once a haven for world-renowned cyclist Lance Armstrong, this stately Spanish Colonial-style house is another notable celebrity home in Austin. A luxurious 8,000-square-foot property featuring imported Mexican doors, hand-painted tiles, a wine cellar, and a sprawling courtyard complete with a pool and outdoor fireplace, this estate screams elegance and retro charm. Although Armstrong has since moved to a nearby Austin cottage, this house remains a landmark of the city and its Tex-Mex aesthetic.
Willie Nelson's enormous Hill Country ranch
Any list of Austin area celebrity homes obviously requires mentioning country music legend Willie Nelson's "Luck Ranch." Situated just outside of Austin, the 300-acre property includes a film-worthy reproduction of a western town. Willie's home is modest, echoing his down-to-earth personality, but the ranch's scenic beauty and tranquil solitude are undoubtedly grand. On his sprawling property, "Shotgun,” Willie hosts a number of music festivals and events, as well as a revolving door of country music celebrity friends.
The value of a quality agent
If looking into the world of celebrity homes fascinates you, perhaps it is time to make your own Austin dream home a reality! Look no further than Kathryn Scarborough Real Estate, one of Austin's leading real estate teams, who will make your Austin home ownership dreams come true. Kathryn’s team enjoys a stellar reputation founded on deep market knowledge and exceptional customer service; they are committed to helping you navigate the diverse neighborhoods and dynamic features of Austin, Texas real estate. Kathryn herself has worked with several celebrities, from athletes to movie stars, and helped them find the luxury homes of their dreams. Call the team today to ensure you find a property that perfectly fits your lifestyle.
