Named for the fast-spreading cedar trees that cover the area, Cedar Park is one of the fastest-growing towns in the Central Texas area.  Its popularity is due to the fact that it bumps right up onto the city of Austin, which not only makes it convenient for commuters, but also provides the residents many of the benefits of city life while still maintaining the peaceful suburban atmosphere. 

The expansion of Highway 183 into Cedar Park has helped the city grow, from 26,000 people in 2000 to 50,000 now. With the Capital Metrorail linking Cedar Park to downtown Austin and to the University of Texas area slated to be finished in 2008, the popularity of the area is expected to rise.  With the growth of the tech industry, commuting to Round Rock for work has become a favorite option for Cedar Park residents as well.  Most commuters report a drive of 30 minutes or less to work every day.  The affordability of the area plus the proximity to Austin make this a popular home for those raising families. 

The rapid growth of Cedar Park has brought a rapid growth in recreational opportunities to the area.  Residents can shop at the Barton Creek Mall, as well as the bevy of national superstores that have moved to the area to serve the growing population.  Some Austin institutions have crept into the area as well.  The Alamo Drafthouse has opened a branch in the area, so residents can eat dinner and have drinks while watching the latest movie releases.  A multitude of restaurants have opened in the area, too, giving diners a wide range of options from Tex-Mex to Asian to American food.  The short drive to Round Rock offers residents the chance to cheer on the minor league baseball team the Round Rock Express.

 Cedar Park lies on the edge of the Hill Country, so fans of outdoor living have a stream of activities to choose from.  Cedar Park itself has a number of cave preserves, and the city sponsors Cave Days for would-be spelunkers.  For fun in the water, you can visit the Bushy Creek Lake Park, complete with a water park for kids, or the pool at Elizabeth Milburn Park, with its huge water slide.  A drive 8 miles up the road takes residents to the famous Lake Travis, where they can engage in the whole multitude of water sports, from skiing to fishing to plain old swimming.  For more water park fun, residents can also visit Volente Beach Water Park, located on Lake Travis.  Golfers can take advantage of the nearby Avery Ranch or Twin Creek Country Club.