Moving to Austin? A Complete Guide

Moving to Austin, TX, is a popular choice thanks to its amazing culture, arts, and culture, as well as because it’s known as the "Live Music Capital of the World." 

Austin offers a growing technology sector, outdoor activities for nature lovers, and a more affordable cost of living than other major U.S. cities like New York or San Francisco. 

Over the last decade, Austin has grown in popularity among homebuyers, first-time buyers, and investors as its housing market has steadily appreciated.

This guide covers moving to Austin and provides a snapshot of the city’s housing market, cost of living, top neighborhoods, and entertainment to help you decide if it is right.

Is Moving to Austin Worth It?

Austin is a great city, but that doesn’t mean it’s for everyone. Let’s explore if moving to Austin is right for your lifestyle.

The Pros

• Booming Job Market: Austin has become a central tech hub, often dubbed "Silicon Hills." Top companies, including Tesla, Oracle, and Apple, have expanded operations here, driving the region’s economy. As of October 2024, the unemployment rate is 3.6%, below the national average.
  
• Affordable Compared to Other Major Cities: While housing prices have increased, Austin remains more affordable than cities like San Francisco or New York. With no state income tax, residents enjoy greater financial freedom.​
• Outdoor Lifestyle: Residents can access numerous outdoor activities, including hiking in the Hill Country, kayaking on Lady Bird Lake, and swimming at Barton Springs Pool.

The Cons

• Rising Costs: The median home price in Austin is $540,000, up over 50% since 2019. This rapid growth has made the real estate market more competitive for first-time home buyers.
• Traffic: As the population grows, so does traffic congestion. Austin’s infrastructure has struggled to accommodate its rapid expansion, leading to peak-hour congestion
  
• Hot Summers: Austin has long summers, often exceeding 100°F from June to August.
  

The Austin Housing Market

In 2024, the average home sale price is around $540,000, higher than the national average. 

Here are a variety of neighborhoods in Austin that fit different lifestyles and budgets:

• Downtown Austin: This area is filled to the brim with luxury apartments and condos, perfect for working professionals who want to be near the city’s energetic nightlife and technology offices. The median price of homes in Downtown Austin is $670K.
• South Congress (SoCo): This area is renowned for its artsy aesthetic and vibe, trendy local shops, and excellent dining options. It also has a balanced combination of historic and modern constructions. Properties in this area typically start at $600,000, with prices climbing to over $1 million in some neighborhoods, depending on location and property features.
• East Austin: An excellent blend of traditional old Austin charm and new home developments. The median home price in East Austin is $533,770.
• Suburbs: Cedar Park, Round Rock, and Leander are some of the popular suburban neighborhoods in Austin that provide more affordable housing and are family-friendly with great amenities, excellent schools, and larger lots for the children to play. 
  
  

Here are the median prices in these suburbs:

• Cedar Park: $540,000
• Round Rock: $407,000

• Leander: ranging between $450,000 to $500,000

New Homes in Austin

New homes in Austin offer state-of-the-art amenities, eco-friendly efficiency, and spacious open floor plans. These properties appeal to homebuyers seeking modern features and customizable options and contribute to the city’s growing demand for new construction. Austin's housing market continues to respond to homebuyers' preferences. 

Communities like Easton Park and Mueller have a mix of single-family homes, condos, and apartments. These developments provide residents with parks, retail outlets, and easy access to the enviable Austin nightlife.

The city's suburbs, including Round Rock, Leander, and Dripping Springs, are also seeing a surge in new construction. These areas are ideal for families seeking larger lots and more affordable housing, with home prices starting around $350,000.

Austin, Texas, has witnessed robust home appreciation in the past ten years. More recently, the value of homes has climbed at the rate of 8 – 10% annually. These statistics make Austin a desirable market for long-term real estate investment. 

The Cost of Living in Austin

Despite its growing popularity, living in Austin remains more affordable than in coastal cities like Los Angeles and New York. Regardless, if you're moving to Austin, TX, you need to be aware of the overall costs to budget accordingly. Here is a breakdown of essential living costs:

• Housing

The median home price in Austin is greater than the national average at around $540,000. Of course, the cost varies depending on the area you choose to live in. 

Due to their popularity, an area like West Lake Hills is more expensive, while suburbs like Round Rock or Cedar Park are more budget-friendly. 

• Food & Groceries

On average, a resident in Austin spends around $300 to $400 monthly on groceries. In addition to the various supermarkets, Austin has an extensive range of restaurants across budget types. 

• Transportation

Operated by CapMetro, Austin has a growing public transportation system. A monthly pass currently costs $41.25. 

Utilities

Austin's scorching summers result in slightly higher utility costs than the national average. The typical electricity bill is between $150 and $200 per month, based on the size of the home and the measures taken to be energy efficient. 

The water rates in Austin range from $40 to $80 per month, depending on usage. Trash and recycling are included in utility bills or homeowner association fees. 

• Healthcare

If you're moving to Austin, TX, you'll have access to healthcare facilities like St. David’s HealthCare and Dell Seton Medical Center are available, making healthcare accessible for Austin, Texas, residents. 

Austin Nightlife and Entertainment 

If you are moving to Austin, the city’s charming nightlife is probably among the top reasons. Being the “Live Music Capital of the World,” Austin offers a vibrant music scene with legendary venues like The Continental Club and Antone’s, where nightly performances span genres from blues to rock. These iconic spots embody Austin’s musical heritage, attracting locals and visitors, and are some of the most fun things to do in Austin, TX.

For those seeking a livelier experience, Sixth Street is the hub of Austin's nightlife. This place offers various bars, dance clubs, and pubs. Popular hotspots like The Blind Pig Pub and Elysium keep the vibe going all night. Rainey Street is the perfect place if you’re in the mood for a more relaxed atmosphere. 

Known for its unique bungalow-style bars, it features local favorites like Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden and Icenhauer’s, where you can enjoy craft cocktails in a laid-back setting.

Whether you love music, dancing, or fun evenings with good food and drinks, the Austin nightlife has something for everyone.

Fun Things to Do in Austin

Living in Austin offers an exciting blend of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and fun events, making it an ideal city for most.

Lady Bird Lake is perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding, with scenic trails along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail for those who prefer biking or walking; Barton Springs Pool in Zilker Park offers a year-round swimming experience, attracting both locals and tourists.

The Thinkery offers interactive science exhibits for family-friendly fun, and the Austin Nature & Science Center offers hands-on learning in a natural setting. Cultural enthusiasts can tour the Texas State Capitol or explore South Congress Avenue's vibrant art and food scene.

One of the most fun things to do in Austin is watching over a million bats emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset between March and October. 

Music lovers can witness world-class performances at the Austin City Limits Festival or immerse themselves in the arts at South by Southwest (SXSW).

With activities ranging from outdoor adventures to famous events, there is never a shortage of fun things to do in Austin, TX.

Thriving Job Market in Austin

• Moving to Austin provides access to its booming economy, driven by the tech sector, with major companies like Tesla, Apple, and Oracle setting up significant operations in the city. 

Job growth is projected to continue at 39.8% over the next decade, well above the national average, and unemployment is currently lower than the U.S. average at 3.6%​ 

Austin’s job market spans multiple sectors, offering diverse opportunities.

• Tech Industry: Major tech companies like Tesla have offices in Austin, and there are opportunities in software development, engineering, and data analytics.
• Healthcare: Institutions like St. David’s HealthCare and Dell Medical Center provide numerous roles for healthcare professionals and administrative staff.
• Education: The University of Texas at Austin is a major employer that offers research, academia, and administration opportunities.
  
  

Top Reasons People Move to Austin

• Vibrant Culture: Austin is renowned for its thriving cultural scene, with live music at its core. The city hosts world-famous festivals like Austin City Limits and South by Southwest (SXSW), attracting music lovers, artists, and creatives. Beyond festivals, Austin offers independent theaters, art galleries, and museums that cater to a diverse audience. 
• Outdoor Lifestyle: Austin’s hot climate offers plenty of outdoor-friendly activities. This is the ideal location for those who adore being active and close to nature. 
• Family-Friendly: Austin's reputation for being family-friendly is well-earned. Most of the neighborhoods are relatively safe. There are top-rated schools and family-oriented events year-round.
• Healthcare & Safety: Austin's excellent healthcare infrastructure includes Dell Seton Medical Center and Dell Children’s Medical Center. Additionally, the low crime rates in most neighborhoods appeal to families considering moving to Austin.
• Sustainability & Innovation: Austin has committed to sustainability, and the city urges environmentally friendly practices through initiatives like zero-waste goals, solar energy adoption, and bike-friendly urban planning. 

Best Places to Eat in Austin, TX

Moving to Austin offers a ton of benefits, one of which is its thriving culinary scene. Whether you’re exploring food trucks or upscale eateries, restaurants in Austin promise a memorable culinary journey. 

• For barbecue lovers, Franklin Barbecue is a fantastic stop. This Austin institution is celebrated for its smoked brisket, ribs, and sausages. It’s a quintessential experience for those waiting for some of Texas's finest barbecues.​
• 
• Another beloved spot is Veracruz All Natural, a food truck known for its fresh and flavorful tacos. Their breakfast tacos, like the migas, are local favorites. This food truck exemplifies Austin's street food culture using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
• If you're in the mood for creative fusion, Loro has the best Asian flavors and Texan barbecue techniques. Its laid-back vibe makes it an excellent spot for casual dining.
• For a classic, rustic barbecue experience, The Salt Lick BBQ, located just outside Austin, offers family-style platters of smoked meats. Known for its brisket and pork ribs, the Salt Lick provides a more traditional, home-style barbecue experience.

Is Moving to Austin Right for You?

Austin’s vibrant job market, high quality of living, and real estate investment potential make it an appealing destination for homebuyers. And don't forget about all the fun things to do in Austin, TX.

With a growing technology sector, diverse cultural scene, and community, the city attracts families, professionals, and families looking for an upgrade in lifestyle. Outdoor enthusiasts will also appreciate the city's numerous parks, trails, and recreational amenities. The absence of a state income tax and the potential for property value appreciation provide noteworthy financial advantages. 

Whether you're looking for an energetic urban lifestyle or a family-friendly suburban community, moving to Austin offers opportunities and fun experiences. 

FAQs 

• Is Austin, Texas, an affordable city to live in?

Even though the cost of living in Austin, Texas, has increased over the last couple of years, it continues to be more affordable than in New York, Los Angeles, or San Francisco. The median home price is around $540,000 as of 2024, and utility costs average $150-$200 monthly. 

• Which neighborhoods in Austin are best for families?

Family-friendly neighborhoods like Circle C Ranch, Avery Ranch, and Westlake Hills are known for their top-rated schools, community events, and recreational amenities. Suburban areas like Cedar Park and Round Rock offer larger homes and green spaces, making them ideal for families seeking a quieter lifestyle close to Austin.

• What is the job market like in Austin?

Austin has a thriving technology job market, with a significant presence from companies like Tesla, Google, and Apple. In addition to tech, the healthcare and education sectors offer ample employment opportunities.

• What is the property tax in Austin?

Property taxes are higher than the national average in Austin, Texas, but this balances out as no state income tax is imposed. They are typically around 2.3% of the home’s assessed value. For example, a home priced at $540,000 would have an annual property tax bill of approximately $12,650. 

• What is the median household income in Austin, TX?

The median household income in Austin is about $86,000, which is higher than the national median of $74,580.