In a market obsessed with big names like Austin and Dallas, Lake LBJ is quietly building a reputation among the country's most discerning waterfront buyers. Horseshoe Bay, located in Llano County, has emerged as a data-backed real estate story, one filled with luxury properties, stable values, and amenities that rival international resort towns.
"Lake LBJ isn't just scenic, it's statistically one of the most stable, luxury waterfront markets in Texas. And we've got the numbers to prove it.", Chad Thibodeaux, Broker, RE/MAX Horseshoe Bay Resort Sales Co.
Lake LBJ Market Overview: Key Statistics (April 2025)
Metric |
Value |
Average Waterfront Home Price |
$4.7 million |
Entry-Level Waterfront Listings |
$250,000 |
Top-End Listings |
$17 million |
Total Active Waterfront Listings |
43 |
Average Price Per Square Foot |
$860 |
Market Status |
Buyer's Market |
Most In-Demand Features |
Private docks, lake views, golf access |
Fastest Growing Buyer Segments |
Remote professionals, retirees, vacation home investors |
Top Buyer Origins |
Texas, California, Colorado, New York, Florida |
Horseshoe Bay vs. Other Texas Lakefront Markets
Lake |
Avg. Price/Sq. Ft. |
Water Level |
Avg. Days on Market |
Luxury Amenities |
Lake LBJ |
$860 |
Constant |
71 days |
High |
Lake Travis |
$940 |
Fluctuates |
52 days |
Medium |
Lake Austin |
$1,250 |
Fluctuates |
41 days |
High |
Lake Granbury |
$465 |
Fluctuates |
63 days |
Low |
Source: Local MLS, Realtor.com, internal brokerage data
Who's Buying Lake LBJ Waterfront Properties?
Remote workers, baby boomers, and tech founders are all discovering Lake LBJ. According to Chad Thibodeaux, the shift is clear:
"We're seeing more buyers from Silicon Valley and Manhattan, people who want their money to go further without sacrificing lifestyle. They're shocked to find a $5M home here that would cost them double in California."
Buyer Profile Breakdown:
- 42% are second-home buyers
- 31% are primary residents relocating from out of state
- 15% are investors eyeing long-term appreciation
- 12% are retirement-focused purchases
Top Performing Neighborhoods in Horseshoe Bay
Neighborhood |
Avg. Price |
Highlights |
Applehead Island |
$5.6M |
Gated, private docks, exclusive access |
Escondido |
$3.2M |
Spanish villas, golf club, resort living |
The Trails |
$2.4M |
Hill Country aesthetic, equestrian-friendly |
Blue Lake Estates |
$2.1M |
Peaceful, panoramic views, solid resale |
Oak Ridge |
$1.7M |
Affordable waterfront entry, strong growth |
What Sets Lake LBJ Apart?
- Constant-Level Water: Unlike most Texas lakes, Lake LBJ maintains a steady water level year-round, preserving shoreline property values.
- Low Inventory, High Quality: Fewer listings, but better homes. This balance keeps prices competitive without flooding the market.
- Amenities That Compete Internationally: Think fine dining, full-service marinas, and private golf clubs within golf cart distance.
Commentary: The Broker's Eye
"Lake LBJ is that rare place where you get lifestyle and long-term investment value. Whether it's a retiree who wants a quiet dock or a CEO wanting a no-traffic escape, this market has depth and resilience." - Chad thibodeaux
He adds:
"There's a reason I've stayed here for over 40 years. I am familiar with these homes, the shorelines, and the hidden opportunities that are not visible online. And trust me, they're out there."
Why This Market Matters to Global Investors and Media
- Stable Growth: Over the last 5 years, Lake LBJ waterfront property values have grown 28%, with fewer than 3% foreclosure rates.
- International Appeal: Buyers from Canada, the UK, and even parts of Asia have shown increased interest in the past 12 months.
- Climate Advantage: Horseshoe Bay's subtropical climate supports year-round outdoor activity, unlike colder northern lake markets.
A Lake Worth Watching
Lake LBJ has gone from "Texas secret" to "data-backed luxury frontier." With the average price per square foot still lower than more saturated markets, but the lifestyle and amenities far exceeding expectations, this lakefront haven is primed for even more attention.