City of Bee Cave Information
History
The City of Bee Cave is a community with deep roots, shaped by a long-standing desire to preserve a welcoming place to live, work, and raise a family away from the pressures of a large city.
Long before Bee Cave became an incorporated city, the area was home to early settlers drawn to its natural beauty and open spaces. In the 1850s, Dietrich Bohls moved west from Austin to settle near the confluence of Barton Creek and Little Barton Creek, seeking a quieter place to build a home for his family. At the time, the area was largely undeveloped, with few settlers and vast stretches of wilderness.
The community’s name comes from the colonies of Mexican honeybees that lived along the banks of Barton Creek and Little Barton Creek throughout western Travis County.
The City of Bee Cave was officially incorporated in 1987, beginning with a small but dedicated city administration operating out of a portable building. At incorporation, the City covered approximately two square miles with an 8,800-acre extraterritorial jurisdiction. Since then, Bee Cave has grown into a thriving Hill Country community while maintaining its commitment to thoughtful growth and a high quality of life.
City Information
Date of Incorporation: 1987
Form of Government:
The community originally incorporated as the Village of Bee Cave, operating as a Type A General Law city with an Alderman-Mayor form of government. In 2006, the community officially became the City of Bee Cave. In 2013, voters approved a Home Rule Charter, establishing the current form of government.
The City Council establishes policies and provides direction for the operation of the City. The City Manager, appointed by City Council, oversees daily administrative operations.
The City Council consists of six elected members: a Mayor and five Council Members. Elections are held annually on the first Saturday in May, with members serving two-year staggered terms.
Population Growth
Bee Cave has experienced significant growth while maintaining its community-focused character.
- 2000 U.S. Census: 656 residents
- 2010 U.S. Census: 3,925 residents
- March 2020 Population Estimate:
- City Limits: 8,618 residents
- Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ): 5,388 residents
- Total Estimated Population: 14,006 residents
Nearest city with a population of 50,000 or more: Austin, Texas (approximately 14 miles away)
Community Today
Located at the gateway to the Texas Hill Country, Bee Cave continues to grow as a vibrant community known for its scenic surroundings, family-friendly atmosphere, strong local economy, and commitment to preserving the character that has defined the area for generations.
City Designations
The City of Bee Cave is proud to be designated by notable organizations that strive to protect the environment and wildlife, as well as maintain charm and beauty in towns across Texas.