Known as "The Most Historic Small Town in Texas," Bastrop sits along the Colorado River about 30 miles southeast of Austin. The downtown district features over 130 historic buildings, while the surrounding Lost Pines Forest provides a stunning backdrop of loblolly pines — the westernmost stand of the southern pine forest. This blend of preserved history and natural beauty makes Bastrop a distinctive place to call home.

Rental options in Bastrop range from boutique apartment communities to single-family homes, with average one-bedroom apartments renting for around $1,379 monthly. Downtown's Main Street district features locally-owned boutiques, art galleries, and the historic Bastrop Opera House, while neighborhoods near Lake Bastrop offer access to fishing, boating, and hiking trails. The Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort adds upscale dining and entertainment options to the area.

Bastrop's location provides an easy commute to Austin while maintaining a more relaxed pace of life. Major employers include Bastrop Independent School District, the Hyatt Regency resort, Bastrop County government, and MD Anderson Cancer Center. The area has attracted numerous film productions over the years, including "The Tree of Life" and "Bernie," adding a touch of Hollywood to this historic Texas town.