Military Relocation to Round Rock, TX: 2026 PCS Guide for Buyers
Military Relocation to Round Rock, Texas: 2026 PCS Guide
Round Rock offers military families an exceptional combination of affordability, lifestyle amenities, and strategic location—but 2026's shifting market conditions require informed navigation. As a buyer's market takes hold with prices down 3.5% year-over-year and homes lingering 40% longer on market (102 days vs. 73 in 2025), relocating service members have unexpected leverage.
Round Rock Housing Market in 2026: Strategic Advantages for Military Buyers
The current median sale price of $387,000 (January 2026) reflects a 3.5% year-over-year decline, creating rare opportunities in this traditionally competitive Austin suburb. Three key dynamics military buyers should understand:
- Negotiation Power Strengthens: Homes now sell for 4% below asking price on average (Source)
- Expanded Selection: 40% more days on market means less rushed decision-making (Source)
- Construction Deals Emerging: Solerno subdivision offers new builds at $138/sqft, 32% below market median (Source)
Price Corrections in Round Rock: Where Value Emerges
With price per square foot down 11.4% to $190, certain neighborhoods show particular promise:
| ZIP Code | Price Trend (YoY) | Days on Market | Key Military Proximity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 78664 | -4.1% | 98 | Closest to Fort Cavazos |
| 78681 | -3.7% | 115 | Best school districts |
| 78665 | -2.8% | 89 | Near Dell Diamond |
Melissa Weiner's team specializes in military relocations, helping families leverage VA loan benefits and Texas' homestead exemptions (which cap property tax increases at 10% annually for primary residences).
Mortgage Rates and PCS Timing: 2026 Strategic Window
Current 6.23% mortgage rates (projected to remain between 6.0%-6.8% through 2026) create a calculated opportunity when combined with:
- VA Loan Advantage: No down payment requirements in a market where sellers are accepting more contingencies
- Price Floor Projections: Analysts expect Round Rock's market to bottom Q3-Q4 2026 (Source)
- Military Clause Flexibility: Extended closing timelines now more negotiable
School Districts and Lifestyle: Why Military Families Thrive Here
Round Rock ISD (rated A by Niche) serves most military families with:
- Blue-Ribbon campuses near neighborhoods with optimal price-to-value ratios
- Dell Children's Medical Center and exceptional youth sports infrastructure
- Fort Cavazos commuter routes with manageable 45-60 minute drive times
The city's 'Sports Capital of Texas' branding delivers family-friendly perks like:
- Kalahari Resorts' massive indoor water park
- Annual youth baseball/softball tournaments at Old Settlers Park
- 50+ miles of hike-and-bike trails
Action Plan for Military Buyers in 2026
- Secure Pre-Approval Early: Mortgage rate locks gain importance in volatile markets
- Target Motivated Sellers: Focus on listings >60 days on market for maximum leverage
- Explore Solerno's New Construction: $399,800 median price with builder incentives (Source)
- Claim Texas Benefits: File for homestead exemption immediately after closing
Frequently Asked Questions (Military PCS to Round Rock)
What's the military housing allowance (BAH) for Round Rock?
The 2026 BAH rates range from $2,172/month (E-5 with dependents) to $2,676 (O-3). Round Rock's affordability allows most service members to purchase homes well below the VA loan limit of $766,550.
How does Texas' property tax system work for military homeowners?
Texas has no state income tax but higher property taxes (2-3% annually). Military homeowners qualify for:
- Homestead Exemption: Capped 10% annual appraisal increases
- Disabled Veteran Exemption: Up to 100% property tax reduction
- Active Duty Deferral: Option to postpone payments during deployment
What's the typical commute to Fort Cavazos from Round Rock?
Most neighborhoods provide 45-60 minute access via Highway 195. Melissa's team prioritizes showing homes with optimal commute routes and VA-friendly features like ramp-ready entryways.
Conclusion: Seizing Round Rock's 2026 Opportunity
With prices softening and sellers more flexible, military families relocating to Round Rock have a strategic window to acquire exceptional value. Combining VA loan benefits with Texas' tax advantages and the city's top-tier schools creates a rare alignment of financial and lifestyle benefits.
Contact Melissa Weiner, Trust Real Estate's military relocation specialist, to build your customized Round Rock home search strategy. Her team provides VA loan experts, school district analysis, and negotiation tactics tailored to 2026's unique conditions.
Sources & References
About the Author
Melissa Weiner
Real Estate Agent · Trust Real Estate · Dallas/Fort Worth, TX
Melissa Weiner is a licensed real estate agent serving all of Texas, with deep expertise in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. A Military Relocation Professional (MRP) and MAPS-certified agent, she brings integrity, assertive negotiation, and first-class service to every transaction — whether you're buying your first home, selling a luxury property, or relocating for the military.
(469) 949-9000
