Located just 22 miles northeast of Austin, Hutto is known for its whimsical claim to fame - the hippopotamus became the city's official mascot in 1915 when a circus hippo escaped a train and wallowed in the mud of Cottonwood Creek. Today, this former railroad town of over 36,000 residents celebrates its heritage with hippo statues throughout the community. The Star Ranch and Heritage on San Gabriel neighborhoods feature well-maintained streets and parks, while Lakeside Estates offers homes near the natural beauty of Brushy Creek. With a typical 30-minute commute to Austin and easy access to Round Rock and Georgetown, Hutto's location puts residents within reach of Central Texas's major employment centers. The rental market includes a variety of single-family homes and townhouses, with three-bedroom properties averaging $2,318 monthly. The developing Co-Op District, anchored by the restored cotton gin and featuring local shops and eateries, complements the historic downtown area, creating a community that honors its past while embracing growth.