North Shoal Creek is an older, established, middle-class neighborhood. There are some restaurants and businesses in the neighborhood and surrounding area. Also, the neighborhood is bounded by major local highways and thoroughfares which makes it easy for residents to reach other parts of the city.

Though the neighborhood has shops, businesses, a cinema, and dining establishments, there are not as many nightlife and entertainment options as in some other neighborhoods. However, downtown and south Austin are just a short commute away.

North Shoal Creek is named for the creek and forested area that runs through north and central Austin, almost down to the lake. Within the forest are bike and hiking trails that traverse north Austin. North Shoal Creek is a suburban neighborhood with older, but well-maintained homes and shady, tree-lined streets.

It is mostly residential, but has businesses and shops along its borders. In addition to a supermarket, gluten-free bakery, pilates, yoga, and acupuncture, there are a variety of ethnic restaurants such as Indian, Thai, Persian, Chinese, and even a karaoke bar. Also close is Northcross Mall, which is not as prominent as it once was but does have some stores and an ice skating rink.

The neighborhood is adjacent to Hwy. 1 (MoPac) to the west and is near Hwy. 183 to the east. There are also public bus lines going through the neighborhood, so it is easy to commute to surrounding areas.

The neighborhood is close to the high-technology companies and shopping districts in north Austin. There is also a bike route running parallel to Shoal Creek that leads through the neighborhood to north Austin. Although there are major thoroughfares along the neighborhood's borders, the neighborhood is relatively quiet.

The neighborhood appeals to many different demographic groups including singles, young professionals, and young families, and so the population is a mix of different types of people. There are also older couples who are attracted to the peace and quiet and relatively slow pace of life in this neighborhood.

Housing is relatively affordable here, making it a good place for a younger professional person or family to start out. There are also several apartment complexes in the area, so it is attractive to college students.