Ed Neuhaus 
Why Round Rock ISD Buyers Keep Comparing These Two High Schools
Round Rock High School scored a 95 out of 100, earning an A on the 2025 TEA accountability report. Cedar Ridge High School posted an 87 and earned a B. Both are large, well established high schools in Round Rock ISD, both offer extensive AP and extracurricular programs, and they sit just 3.6 miles apart. The 8 point TEA gap is real, but the $177,000 difference in median home prices ($592,000 for Round Rock High vs $415,000 for Cedar Ridge) is what makes this comparison actually matter for buyers.
And here is the part that catches people off guard: Cedar Ridge at 87 is not a school anyone should be concerned about. A strong B at a high school level in Round Rock ISD puts it ahead of most high schools in the entire Austin metro. But the A on Round Rock High pulls buyers like a magnet, and the price gap reflects that gravitational pull.
Cedar Ridge vs Round Rock: Quick Comparison
| Cedar Ridge High School | Round Rock High School | |
|---|---|---|
| TEA Rating | B (87/100) | A (95/100) |
| Enrollment | 2,700 students | 3,812 students |
| Grades | 09 – 12 | 09 – 12 |
| District | Round Rock ISD | Round Rock ISD |
| Median Home Price | $415,000 | $592,000 |
| Key Feeder | CD Fulkes MS | CD Fulkes MS |
TEA School Performance Comparison (2025)
The Texas Education Agency evaluates every public school annually across multiple performance domains. Here is how both campuses performed in the 2025 accountability cycle.
| Performance Metric | Cedar Ridge High School | Round Rock High School |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | B (87/100) | A (95/100) |
| Student Achievement | B (87/100) | A (95/100) |
| School Progress | B (87/100) | A (95/100) |
| Academic Growth | B (87/100) | A (95/100) |
| Closing the Gaps | B (87/100) | A (95/100) |
| Enrollment | 2,700 students (09 – 12) | 3,812 students (09 – 12) |
| Economically Disadvantaged | 35.4% | 25.5% |
| English Learners | 11.8% | 9.2% |
| TEA Distinctions | 0 of 7 earned | 2 of 7 earned |
Round Rock High’s 95 is exceptional. Full As across every domain plus 2 TEA distinctions. Cedar Ridge’s 87 is consistently solid across the board. The demographic difference (35.4% vs 25.5% economically disadvantaged) explains some of the gap, but Round Rock High is simply performing at an elite level right now.
For the full breakdown, visit the Cedar Ridge HS school page or the Round Rock HS school page.
Round Rock High School: The District Standard Bearer
Round Rock High is the original campus in the district and it performs like it. With 3,812 students it is one of the largest high schools in central Texas, which translates into more AP offerings, more athletics programs, more fine arts options, and more pathways to graduation than smaller campuses can support. The school sits near historic downtown Round Rock, and the surrounding neighborhoods include some of the most established and charming in the district. Old Round Rock homes with big lots and mature trees, walkable streets, local restaurants. The $592,000 median reflects all of that plus the school’s reputation.
Cedar Ridge High School: Underappreciated and Underpriced
Cedar Ridge serves 2,700 students and has been steadily building its reputation since opening. The campus has invested in STEM programs and career academies that give students real world skills alongside traditional academics. At $415,000, the Cedar Ridge zone is significantly more affordable than Round Rock High’s territory, and you are still getting a B rated campus in one of the best public school districts in Texas. The neighborhoods tend to be newer developments with modern layouts and community amenities.
I have had multiple buyers over the past few years who started their search locked on Round Rock High, toured some homes, saw the price tags, and then asked me about Cedar Ridge. By the time we looked at the numbers side by side, most of them made the switch. An 87 is not settling. It is being smart with your money.
The Neighborhoods
Round Rock High’s zone covers the heart of Round Rock near downtown, extending into established neighborhoods along McNeil Road and Sam Bass Road. Cedar Ridge’s zone stretches into the newer developments to the north and east, where builders are still actively constructing. If you want charm and character, the Round Rock High zone wins. If you want newer homes at a lower price, Cedar Ridge’s zone is the play.
Browse all homes zoned to Cedar Ridge HS or homes zoned to Round Rock HS.
Which School Fits You?
You might lean toward Round Rock High if:
- An A rated high school with a 95/100 is your non-negotiable standard
- Historic downtown Round Rock neighborhoods appeal to you
- Maximum AP and program options matter for your student’s path
You might lean toward Cedar Ridge if:
- A strong B (87/100) gives you sufficient confidence in school quality
- Saving $177,000 on the median lets you invest in other priorities
- Newer construction with modern amenities is your preference
The value conscious buyer looks at these numbers and sees Cedar Ridge. The buyer who wants the absolute best TEA score in the district goes Round Rock High. Neither is wrong. I just want you to make the choice with clear data instead of assumptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Find Your Home?
Choosing the right high school zone in Round Rock ISD is one of the biggest financial decisions buyers make in this market. I have 19 years of experience helping people navigate these choices. Lets connect and walk through your options together.
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