The Ultimate Guide to Moving to Austin, TX

Austin, Texas, has become a top choice for many people moving within the U.S. It’s known for its great lifestyle, affordable living, and many jobs. This guide will show you everything you need to see if you’re considering moving to Austin. It will cover where to live, how much it costs, job chances, fun things to do, and more.

Austin is famous for its music, outdoor fun, and big tech industry. It’s a place where culture, new ideas, and businesses thrive. Whether you love the city’s unique vibe, job market, or natural sites, this guide will help you decide about Austin, TX. It’ll give you the details to make an intelligent move.

Why Move to Austin?

Austin, Texas, is known for being a lively place. In the last five years, it has ranked high among great places to live in the U.S. This is because of its strong job market, excellent quality of life, and lots to do. These things make Austin attractive to people of all ages, like families, young folks, students, and retirees. The number of people moving here has been going up, showing more and more find it a top place to live.

Austin’s Top Rankings

Austin has won many awards for being a top city. It was named the third “Best Place to Live” by U.S. News & World Report. Forbes also chose it as the prime spot for doing business and retiring. These honors show Austin’s strong economy, excellent living conditions, and lively community.

Population Growth

In the decade leading up to 2020, Austin saw the most growth of the top 100 U.S. cities. It added over half a million new people, growing by 33%. This shows how many people are choosing Austin as their new home. People from all over the U.S. are being drawn to Austin.

Austin keeps growing because people see the good life waiting for them. There are many jobs, a great place to live, and pleasant weather. Austin is full of good reasons to move here for anyone looking to advance their career, find a strong community, or enjoy retirement.

Austin Neighborhoods

Austin is a city known for its diverse and vibrant neighborhoods, each offering unique charm and appeal. Here are some popular neighborhoods in Austin to consider:

Travis Heights: This charming neighborhood, just south of downtown over the Congress Avenue Bridge, embodies the essence of Austin. It boasts a mix of historic and renovated homes and is shaded by magnificent oak trees, making it a delightful place to live.
East Cesar Chavez: This neighborhood is often part of the broader “Eastside” area, just east of I-35 and downtown. It extends south to Lady Bird Lake and offers easy access to the hike and bike trail and Fiesta Gardens, which hosts many outdoor events throughout the year.
Clarksville: Located just west of downtown, Clarksville is a historic neighborhood established in 1871 by freed slave Charles Clark. It became Austin’s first African American community. Despite developers pushing the Black community to the east side in the early 20th century, a section of Clarksville was declared historic in the 1970s. The 1879 Hezikiah Haskell House represents the neighborhood’s rich history.
Cherrywood: Nestled along the east side of I-35, just northeast of the University of Texas Austin and south of the Mueller development, Cherrywood features tree-lined streets with original single-family bungalows from the 1940s and some duplexes.
Bouldin Creek: Located just south of Lady Bird Lake via the South 1st Street Bridge and west of Travis Heights, Bouldin Creek is known for its quirky vibe. However, like Travis Heights, it has become quite expensive in recent years.
Downtown Austin is the city’s bustling epicenter, boasting a lively blend of arts, culture, and entertainment. Residential skyscrapers mingle with a thriving nightlife scene, particularly along the iconic Sixth Street and Rainey Street.

Consider visiting these neighborhoods, exploring their amenities, talking to residents, and researching property prices and crime rates to find the best fit for your needs and preferences.

Choosing the Right Neighborhood

When moving to Austin, Texas, picking the right area is vital. Austin has many neighborhoods, each with its charm and costs. To choose well, you must think about a few essential things.

First, consider your budget. Austin’s housing market has grown significantly. The average home costs about $546,600. Rent prices range from $1,450 for a one-bedroom in Crestview to $3,200 in downtown Austin.

Consider how close you want to be to work, services, and fun things to do. Some places, like Downtown Austin, have many businesses and excellent healthcare. Other areas, like Barton Hills, are known for their excellent schools.

Think about if you like to walk and how safe you want to feel. Places like Bouldin Creek are great for walking and have a friendly vibe.

The right place in Austin is different for everyone. Look into the options, understand what you want, and you’ll find a great place to live.

Cost of Living in Austin

Austin, Texas, has been growing fast and is becoming a top spot for many people. However, the high demand has raised the cost of living. Knowing what it costs to live in Austin is critical for those considering moving here.

Housing Expenses

Housing in Austin costs a lot. The median home value is $551,906, much higher than the national median. Rents for a two-bedroom can be from $1,500 to $2,560 monthly.

Utility, Grocery, and Transportation Costs

Some living costs in Austin are on par with or cheaper than the national average. Utility prices and groceries are below the U.S. standard. But getting around is nearly 10% more expensive, with gas and car insurance.

Cost of Living Category	Compared to the National Average
Housing Costs	89% higher
Utility Prices	0.9% lower
Grocery Prices	4.3% lower
Transportation Costs	9.9% higher

Overall, Austin’s cost of living is 29.1% over the national average. Housing is the main reason. Those thinking of moving should look at their budget closely.

Job Opportunities in Austin

Austin, TX, is a top spot for jobs in the U.S. The tech industry, called “Silicon Hills,” is a big reason for this. It has attracted top companies and workers from all over. Big names like Apple, Google, and Facebook are now in Austin.

The city’s economy is not just about tech. Jobs can be found in many other areas, like healthcare and education. For example, the Austin Independent School District has over 12,000 employees, and Tesla is growing its operations in Austin and Del Valle.

Tech Sector

The tech scene in Austin is booming. Many startups and big companies call this city home. There are jobs in software, cybersecurity, and more. The Austin tech sector is growing fast, thanks to its talented pool of workers and welcoming business environment.

Major Employers

Austin has several big employers besides tech, including the Austin Independent School District and Apple Inc. Tesla has also made a mark in the region.

Company	New Jobs Created	Location
Black Ore	15	Austin, TX
Grander Distributing	15	Georgetown, TX
RealCold	100	Lockhart, TX
Ascension Seton Williamson	400	Round Rock, TX
Hanyang Eng USA Inc.	50	Cedar Park, TX
ZT Systems	1,500	Georgetown, TX
Oracle HQ	1,000	Austin, TX
NXP	59	Austin, TX
Alithya Group Inc.	30	Austin, TX
Compedia	228	Cedar Park, TX

Schools in Austin

Austin is a fantastic place for families because it has many types of schools: public, charter, private, and homeschooling. The schools here are excellent, and that’s one reason why families are moving here.

In Austin, there are big school districts that serve many students. The three largest ones are the Austin Independent School District, Round Rock Independent School District, and Leander Independent School District. The Austin Independent School District is the biggest in Texas, with over 125 schools and around 82,000 students.

If you want to go to college, Austin has some great options. The University of Texas–Austin is one of the best in the country, and there are other colleges like Austin Community College, St. Edward’s University, and Huston-Tillotson University, too. So, whether you’re looking for a good school for your kids or considering college, Austin has you covered.

Entertainment and Attractions in Austin

Austin, Texas, is full of fun. It’s known for its strong live music scene, which features shows in places like the airport, grocery stores, and downtown.

Live Music Scene

Austin is famous worldwide for its live music. You can see music in places like ACL Live at the Moody Theater. There’s also The Contemporary Austin-Jones Center.

Want more live tunes? Head to 6th Street and the Red River Cultural District. Here, bands play every night. It’s a great way to be part of Austin’s music vibe.

Outdoor Activities

Austin is great if you love the outdoors. Walk the 10-mile Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail by Lady Bird Lake, try kayaking or paddleboarding, or swim at Barton Springs Pool.

The city is also known for its cool street art. Colorful paintings cover the walls, making the city look beautiful.

If you enjoy music or outdoor fun, Austin is for you. It’s packed with excitement, and visitors can dive into the local scene. There’s something for everyone here.

Guide to Moving to Austin, TX

Welcome to Austin, Texas! It’s growing fast and becoming more popular. If you’re considering moving here, it’s essential to check out its many neighborhoods. Learn about the cost of living, how to get around, and local customs. You’ll love the city’s green spaces, biking paths, and intense tech scene.

Here are some critical tips for a smooth move to Austin:

Check out Austin’s cool neighborhoods, such as Downtown and North, South, East, and West Austin. Each one has its own special vibe. Research the cost of living, types of homes, and community.
Know the price of living in Austin, especially how much you’ll spend on a place to live. It can be more expensive here than the national average. Also, think about your extra costs for things like utilities and groceries.
Look for job openings in Austin’s tech world and other fields. It’s a city with diverse job opportunities. This will help you fit right in with a good job.
Enjoy the outdoors in Austin. There are lots of parks and places to be active outside. The sunny weather is perfect for exploring the Barton Creek Greenbelt and Zilker Park.
Get ready for summers in Austin. They’re hot and sticky, often over 100°F. Make sure you’re prepared clothing and activity-wise for the weather.
Consider working with a local expert to find your home in Austin. They can help you with the tough housing market, pick the best place, and smooth the moving process.

You’ll have an easier time moving to Austin by checking out this guide and these tips. Life in this lively Texas city is waiting for you!

Active Lifestyle in Austin

Austin, Texas, is full of life and energy. It’s known for the 10-mile Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, which is very popular and passes by the downtown area. Austinites love outdoor activities like paddleboarding and climbing.

Austin’s lively vibe isn’t just about doing things alone. There are lots of groups and clubs. The Austin Sports & Social Club lets people meet others and do fun things together. They have games, from pickleball to bike polo, for everyone to enjoy.

If you love being active, Austin is a great place to be. There are many ways you can stay fit and have fun with others. There are beautiful parks to explore and clubs to join. This shows how much Austin cares about being lively, healthy, and connected.

A group of people kayaking on Lady Bird Lake with the downtown Austin skyline in the background, surrounded by green trees and blue water.n trees and blue water.

Outdoor Activity	Description
Paddleboarding	Enjoy the serene waters of Austin’s lakes and rivers while paddleboarding.
Bouldering	Scale the challenging bouldering walls at local climbing gyms in Austin.
Pickleball	Join the growing community of pickleball enthusiasts in Austin and compete in local tournaments.
Bike Polo	Experience the unique and fast-paced sport of bike polo, which has a thriving community in Austin.

Austin’s Tech Hub

Austin is now a central tech hub in the U.S. Many big tech names, including Google, Apple, and Amazon, have made it their home. Their presence has led to more jobs and attracted workers from all over.

In 2022, Tesla’s CEO, Elon Musk, launched Gigafactory Texas near Austin. This site is now the main place for making Tesla cars and batteries. With over 8,300 tech companies, Austin has 176,404 people employed in the tech field. This is around 17.1% of its job market.

The big tech offices in Austin are mostly downtown and in the north. Downtown has Google, PayPal, and TikTok’s offices. In North Austin, you’ll find Dell Inc., the biggest tech employer in the area. They have about 14,000 workers. The Apple campus and offices for Microsoft and Oracle are in Northwest Austin.

Tech Employer	Location in Austin	Number of Employees
Dell Inc.	North Austin	Approximately 14,000
Google, PayPal, Cloudflare, TikTok, Meta	Downtown Austin	Not specified
Apple, Microsoft, Oracle, Hewlett Packard	Northwest Austin	Not specified
Tesla Gigafactory	Del Valle, TX	Expected 5,000 jobs

Austin is often called “Silicon Hills” due to its tech growth. It’s great for jobs, especially in tech. The city has been named one of the top in the U.S. for job growth. This makes Austin a top pick for job-seekers, especially those in tech.

Language and Local Customs

Being new in Austin, Texas, you should know the city has many languages and customs. English is mostly used. However, Spanish is also essential in Austin’s culture and daily life.

Austin is strongly influenced by Latin America, as evidenced by its large Hispanic and Spanish-speaking groups. About 32% of people in Austin speak a language other than English, more than the U.S. average of 21.9%. Learning even a little Spanish can help you a lot in Austin. It helps you connect with the Spanish community.

Aside from languages, Austin has its unique customs. For example, people have nicknames for some streets. For instance, Guadalupe is called “Guada-loop.” Burnet has the stress on the first part of the word. The freeway known as Loop 1 is often called MoPac instead of its official name.

Another big part of Austin’s local customs is its love for being different and creative. “Keep Austin Weird” is the city’s motto. It encourages unique and local things, including local shops, exciting activities, and the city’s fun and unusual side. This is how newcomers can dive into Austin’s exciting life. They can enjoy the city’s art, music, and outdoor events.

Local Terminology	Meaning
Guadalupe	Pronounced as “Guada-loop”
Burnet	Accent on the first syllable
Loop 1	Commonly referred to as MoPac

Understanding the many languages and unique Austin local customs helps anyone fit into Austin’s lively and friendly community.

Austin’s Food Scene

Austin is known for Tex-Mex, barbecue, and tacos. However, it has much more to offer. With new restaurants and various cuisines, there’s something for everyone. The outdoor dining vibe is excellent, with many places welcoming dogs on their patios.

The city’s food truck scene is still strong. Although there are fewer trucks now, many gather in parks, making it easy for visitors to try different foods in one spot.

Austin Food Truck Highlights	Popular Austin Restaurants
KG BBQ: Serving Egyptian-Texan barbecueCon Todo: North Austin food truck, Eater Austin’s best food truck of 2022Sushi A-Go-Go: Transformed into the full-service restaurant Kome	Ramen del Barrio: Crowned the best restaurant in 2023 by Eater AustinCharlotte Restaurant: Offers classic Italian dishes for dinner and brunchHimalaya Kosheli: Specializes in North Indian/Nepalese cuisine

The Austin food scene is always changing. New places offer tasty dishes, from Tex-Mex to global cuisine. Austin is a food lover’s dream.

Eat and Drink in Austin

Austin is a culinary playground catering to the most discerning palates with its diverse range of eateries and vibrant food scene. Whether you’re craving the smoky goodness of traditional BBQ, farm-to-table freshness, zesty Tex-Mex, innovative Asian fusion, or haute cuisine crafted by culinary maestros, Austin has it all.

Dining Destinations:

Austin boasts a vibrant dining scene, ranging from food trucks to upscale eateries. Outdoor dining is trendy, allowing you to savor your meal amidst the city’s natural beauty. Here are some notable Restaurants:

Patika: Treat yourself to a delightful brunch experience at this beloved spot.
Loro: Immerse yourself in the unique flavors of Asian fusion cuisine in a stylish setting.
Odd Duck: Sample seasonal dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients in a chic modern patio ambiance.
Launderette: Delight in award-winning New American cuisine at this charming cafe.
Ramen Tatsu-ya: Indulge in authentic Japanese soul food with piping-hot bowls of ramen.
Blue Dahlia: Enjoy al fresco dining and refreshing mimosas at this charming eatery.

Austin’s culinary landscape extends beyond traditional dining establishments, with an array of food trucks adding to its dynamic allure, perfect for those on the move.

Coffee Culture:

For caffeine connoisseurs, Austin boasts an array of coffee havens serving the perfect brew. Start your day at Mary’s Cafe, where locally roasted organic coffee meets mouthwatering paninis and salads. Quack’s 43rd Street Bakery offers a nostalgic charm alongside its delightful coffee and baked treats in Central Austin.

At Cosmic Coffee and Beer Garden, soak in the laid-back atmosphere while indulging in delicious coffee and exploring nearby food truck delights. Jo’s coffee, famous for its “I love you so much” mural, beckons with its iconic Iced Turbo. Meanwhile, Easy Tiger promises heavenly pastries and invigorating coffee to fuel your adventures.

Craft Breweries:

Beer aficionados rejoice in Austin’s vibrant brewery scene, where creativity knows no bounds.

Zilker Brewing Company: Explore a wide selection of beers, including both classic and innovative varieties.
St. Elmo Brewing Co.: Enjoy local beers in a vibrant atmosphere with live music and community events.
Jester King Brewery: Delight in wild ales and fermented beers that showcase the unique flavors of the Texas Hill Country.
Austin Beer Garden Brewing Co.: For a satisfying dining experience, pair delicious hot pizzas with refreshing pints of beer.
Austin Beerworks: Sample the core four beers at this beloved brewery, perfect for refreshing your taste buds year-round.

With abundant brewpubs and breweries to explore, beer enthusiasts are in for a treat in Austin’s vibrant beer scene. Whether savoring the latest culinary creations, indulging in artisanal coffee, or toasting with craft brews, Austin promises an unforgettable gastronomic adventure.

Austin Nightlife

Austin’s nightlife scene is legendary. Vibrant hotspots are scattered throughout the city, each offering a unique experience that captures the essence of the Texas capital.

Austin’s nightlife scene is legendary, drawing revelers from all corners to its vibrant streets, particularly in Downtown and East Austin. From South Congress to Rainey Street and the iconic 6th Street, many bars, clubs, and music venues exist to explore, ensuring an unforgettable evening for all.

The Warehouse District is a nightlife hub boasting a dynamic mix of dining, live music, and dancing. It’s a top choice for those seeking a diverse and entertaining night out on the town.

Transformed from a quiet neighborhood into a bustling entertainment district, Rainey Street boasts a collection of charming bars and restaurants. It’s not just a nightlife destination but also a thriving residential area, adding to its unique charm.

Renowned for its lively atmosphere, Sixth Street attracts revelers seeking diverse entertainment options. From bars and restaurants to theaters and music venues, this iconic stretch has something for everyone’s taste.

Austin’s nightclubs offer pulsating beats and electrifying atmospheres for those with a penchant for dancing. With top-notch DJs and state-of-the-art sound systems, these venues are the perfect place to let loose and dance until dawn.

Austin’s reputation as the “Live Music Capital of the World” shines brightly in its many live music venues and bars. Whether catching a local band’s set or enjoying a laid-back evening with friends, these establishments offer the perfect backdrop for memorable nights filled with great tunes and refreshing drinks.

With its diverse and dynamic nightlife scene, Austin caters to every taste and preference, ensuring that every night out is filled with excitement and memorable moments.

Traffic

According to Business Insider, Austin’s traffic is notoriously bad, ranking 18th out of 31 U.S. cities for worst traffic. The rapid population growth and limited public transportation contribute to this issue. Our founder, Cameron Brown, who has lived in Austin his entire life, confirms that traffic is a significant concern for both native and new residents.

Here’s a helpful tip: avoid crossing the river (Lady Bird Lake) during rush hour. Austin has two main north-south highways: MoPac and I-35. The river acts as a major pinch point, causing significant traffic congestion. If you work south of the river, consider living south of the river. If you work north of the river, live north.

Also, familiarize yourself with local pronunciations:

Ranch Road 2222: “Twenty-two, twenty-two”
Manchaca Road: “Man Chack”
Mueller: “Miller”
Guadalupe Street: “Guad a loop”
Buda: “Bee-you duh.”

Understanding these tips and local lingo can make navigating Austin a bit easier.

Austin Loves Pets!

Austin is a super pet-friendly city, and we’re very proud of it. We might even be one of the most pet-friendly cities in America!

Most restaurants and bars in Austin welcome pets, either inside or on their patios, and we have many patios! Some bars, like Yard Bar, even have a dog park as a main feature.

The best neighborhoods for pets are:

Zilker: Home to Zilker Park, where you’ll see dozens of dogs off-leash daily.
Allandale and North Burnet: These areas have the city’s most dog-friendly restaurants and parks.

Tons of nearby places to travel to

Living in Austin offers the perfect launching pad for exploring some of Texas’s most vibrant cities, all within a few hours’ drive! It means you’re close to some of Texas’ coolest cities:

McKinney: About 3.5 hours away, McKinney has one of Texas’ oldest authentic downtowns.
Dallas: A 3-hour drive from Austin, Dallas offers attractions like the AT&T Stadium and the largest permanent model train exhibit at the Dallas Children’s Medical Center.
Houston: Just 2.5 hours away, Houston features the Space Center and the Museum District.
San Antonio: Only 1 hour and 15 minutes away, San Antonio is home to the historic Alamo, the famous River Walk, and Natural Bridge Caverns.

With these cities nearby, you’ll have plenty of exciting places to explore just a short drive from Austin!

Conclusion

Austin, Texas, is now one of the top places to live in the U.S.A. It’s known for its excellent job opportunities, fun culture, and good quality of life. There’s a lot to enjoy, from music and outdoor fun to tech jobs and many different areas. This guide has shared tips for anyone moving to Austin, whether you’re young, have a family, or are retiring.

Austin has a solid economy and is full of smart people. It mixes city life with nature well. The city cares about the environment and offers culture and outdoor fun. As Austin grows, it keeps getting better. It’s a key place for anyone moving here who is looking for growth, fun, and a sense of community.

There are many reasons to love Austin, like it vital to move to Austin’s tech scene, lively arts and music, and beautiful nature. This guide has given you essential details to help you decide on your move. Learning about Austin’s different areas, cost of living, jobs, and activities will help you prepare for your move. You’ll get to enjoy everything as soon as you get to this great place in Texas, known as the “Live Music Capital of the World”!

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FAQs about Moving to Austin, TX

What makes Austin a great place to live?

Austin boasts a vibrant live music scene, beautiful views of the Texas Hill Country, numerous parks, and a dynamic event scene. It’s also known for its quality of living, affordability, and thriving job market.

What are some popular neighborhoods in Austin?

Popular neighborhoods include Downtown Austin, North Austin, South Austin, East Austin, and West Austin, each offering unique settings and characteristics.

What are the average rental prices in Austin?

Rental prices vary based on home size, with studios averaging $1,330 and four-bedroom homes reaching up to $2,560.

What’s the median home value in Austin?

As of May 2024, the median home value in Austin is $551,906, with waterfront homes and downtown condos being significantly more expensive.

What is the job market like in Austin?

Austin has a strong job market, particularly in the tech sector, which has earned it the nickname “Silicon Hills.” Major employers include Apple, Dell Technologies, and Tesla.

Which neighborhoods are popular for families in Austin?

Barton Hills, Clarksville, and Hyde Park are popular neighborhoods for families due to their quiet, charming atmospheres and proximity to amenities.

What are some popular outdoor activities in Austin?

Residents enjoy exploring natural attractions like Barton Springs, McKinney Falls State Park, and Hamilton Pool. Events like South by Southwest (SXSW) and Austin City Limits are also popular.

How’s the transportation system in Austin?

Driving is common in Austin, but the city also has a public bus system called CapMetro, with over 3,000 stops and 53 routes. Car rentals and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available.

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