South Congress
Description
Where Local Flair Meets Global Brands in the Heart of Texas
This legendary street traces its roots back to the 1850s and it slowly evolved into a counterculture hotspot in the 1970s. It is where the spirit of Austin’s “Keep It Weird” ethos took shape. Today, it’s a dynamic blend of high-end retail, independent boutiques and internet-native brands debuting their brick-and-mortar locations. With retailers like Hermès, Nike, Lululemon, ALO Yoga and Austin icons such as Tecovas and Kendra Scott, SoCo is a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists.
The South Congress Experience
South Congress is where old-school cool meets modern sophistication.. SoCo’s iconic neon signs, vintage sho
Austin's South Congress welcomed The Wheel South on February 24th, a bicycle-themed bar, formerly home to the Crow Bar before it was destroyed by a fire in 2022.
This new venture is spearheaded by FBR Management, the team behind popular Austin establishments such as Mean Eyed Cat, Sign Bar, and Gibson Street Bar. The Wheel South is the second location of their East Side bar, The Wheel, which has cultivated a loyal following of cyclists and craft beer enthusiasts over the past decade.
The opening of The Wheel South is expected to enhance the vibrant bar and dining scene along South Congress, attracting both locals and visitors to this bustling corridor.
New retail spaces open up on South Congress, Austin
H-E-B Opens New Flagship Store on South Congress Ave in Austin
Kendra Scott Opens Yellow Rose Store on South Congress
Local Expert Analysis
Market Positioning and Financial Metrics
South Congress is widely regarded as the best high street in Austin’s Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), attracting brands eager to establish flagship locations in the city. Gross rents on the street range from $200 to $300 per square foot, reflecting its coveted status. With a vacancy rate of less than 5%, the street remains highly competitive, and retailers are often willing to pay a premium for spots that can yield sales exceeding $1,000 per square foot.
Customer Demographics and Foot Traffic
South Congress draws a broad mix of visitors, including young professionals, high-income locals, and tourists. Its unique retail and dining offerings, pa
New Developments
Recent additions, including New Balance, Lucchese, and Birkenstock, have strengthened SoCo’s status as Austin’s top retail hub. Looking ahead, projects like Leland South Congress (expected in 2027) and another large-scale development slated for 2030 will further enhance the area’s appeal. While space is limited due to the presence of two schools along the street, this scarcity only fuels demand, driving up rents and underscoring South Congress’s premier position in Austin’s retail scene.
