Moving to Austin: A Guide
Are you considering making Austin, Texas your new home? Whether you're relocating for an exciting job opportunity, following your heart for a relationship, or simply drawn to Austin's famous vibe, moving to a new city represents both thrilling possibilities and significant challenges. As an Austin therapist who has helped many clients navigate the emotional journey of relocation, I've created this comprehensive guide to help you understand what life in the "Live Music Capital of the World" is really like and how to make your transition as smooth as possible.
Moving to Austin means joining one of America's most dynamic cities—a place that consistently ranks among the best places to live in the United States while maintaining its proudly "weird" identity. But beyond the headlines and reputation, what's it really like to call Austin home? Let's explore everything you need to know about relocating to this vibrant Texas city.
Is Austin a Good Place to Live?
This fundamental question deserves a nuanced answer. For many people, Austin represents an ideal blend of economic opportunity, cultural richness, outdoor recreation, and that special something that makes the city feel both cosmopolitan and approachable. But like any city, whether Austin is right for you depends on what you're looking for.
Austin consistently ranks at the top of "best places to live" lists for good reasons. The city offers a robust job market, particularly in tech, healthcare, education, and government sectors. The unemployment rate typically runs below the national average, and the startup ecosystem continues to thrive, creating opportunities for entrepreneurs and professionals alike.
The cultural scene is genuinely distinctive. Austin's legendary live music venues, world-class festivals like South by Southwest (SXSW) and Austin City Limits, and thriving arts community create an energy that few cities can match. The food scene ranges from award-winning restaurants to iconic food trucks, with Tex-Mex, barbecue, and innovative farm-to-table cuisine leading the way.
Outdoor enthusiasts find plenty to love with the city's extensive trail systems, natural swimming holes like Barton Springs Pool, and easy access to the Texas Hill Country. Lady Bird Lake cuts through downtown, offering kayaking, paddleboarding, and the popular 10-mile hike-and-bike trail that surrounds it.
However, Austin's popularity has created challenges. The cost of living, while still below coastal cities like San Francisco or New York, has risen significantly. Traffic congestion is a daily reality, particularly on major highways like I-35 and MoPac. And the summer heat can be intense, with triple-digit temperatures common from June through September.
For those moving from smaller communities, Austin's rapid growth (the metro area now approaches 2.4 million people) can feel overwhelming. Conversely, those relocating from larger metropolises might find certain amenities or cultural offerings more limited than what they're accustomed to.
Perhaps what makes Austin most distinctive is its community feel despite its size. Neighborhoods maintain unique identities, local businesses receive passionate support, and the city's unofficial slogan "Keep Austin Weird" reflects a genuine appreciation for individuality and creative expression that persists even as corporate headquarters and luxury developments reshape parts of the landscape.
The Pros of Living in Austin
Thriving Job Market
Austin's economy and job market have shown remarkable resilience despite national downturns. The technology sector forms a major pillar, with companies ranging from established giants like Apple, Google, and Amazon to countless startups and mid-sized firms. Dell Technologies, headquartered in nearby Round Rock, remains a major employer.
Beyond tech, opportunities abound in:
Healthcare, anchored by institutions like St. David's, Ascension Seton, and the new University of Texas Dell Medical School
Higher education, including the University of Texas at Austin and numerous colleges
Government positions at the state, county, and city levels
Creative industries spanning music, film, gaming, and marketing
This diverse economy provides both stability and opportunities for career growth that few cities of comparable size can match.
Rich Cultural Scene
Austin's cultural offerings extend far beyond its famous music scene (though with 250+ live music venues, that alone would be impressive). The city hosts world-class museums like The Blanton Museum of Art and The Contemporary Austin, theater companies producing everything from classic plays to experimental works, and film festivals that complement the mainstream and arthouse cinema options.
Annual events create a steady rhythm to city life:
South by Southwest (SXSW) combines music, film, interactive media, and conferences
Austin City Limits Music Festival brings headliners and emerging artists to Zilker Park
Fun Fun Fun Fest, Blues on the Green, and countless smaller music festivals
Texas Book Festival draws literary stars downtown
East Austin Studio Tour opens artists' workspaces to the public
For everyday cultural engagement, districts like South Congress (SoCo), East Austin, and the Red River Cultural District offer concentrations of galleries, performance spaces, and creative energy.
Outdoor Lifestyle
Austin's natural beauty and generally mild climate (extreme summer heat notwithstanding) encourage an active outdoor lifestyle year-round. The city maintains over 300 parks and more than 30 miles of urban trails, with standouts including:
Zilker Metropolitan Park, a 350-acre oasis that hosts major events and everyday recreation
The Barton Creek Greenbelt, offering 12+ miles of trails, limestone cliffs for climbing, and swimming holes
Emma Long Metropolitan Park with lakeside camping just minutes from downtown
McKinney Falls State Park featuring scenic waterfalls within city limits
Water forms a central element of Austin's outdoor identity, with Lady Bird Lake (actually a dammed portion of the Colorado River) flowing through downtown. Barton Springs Pool, a spring-fed natural swimming pool maintaining 68-70°F year-round, provides refreshing relief from summer heat and a gathering spot for diverse Austinites.
The nearby Hill Country offers weekend escapes to charming small towns, wineries, and state parks with more challenging hiking, while lakes Travis, Austin, and Georgetown provide boating, fishing, and water sports opportunities.
Community and Lifestyle
Austin combines Texas hospitality with progressive values and creative energy, creating neighborhoods with distinct personalities but a shared appreciation for community. From family-friendly suburbs to walkable urban districts, the city offers diverse lifestyle options.
The food scene deserves special mention, with Austin's culinary identity extending far beyond (excellent) barbecue and Tex-Mex. Farm-to-table restaurants, international cuisines reflecting the city's growing diversity, and a world-class food truck culture satisfy every taste and budget.
For families, Austin offers strong public schools in many districts, particularly in the suburbs, plus charter and private options. Family-friendly activities abound, from the Thinkery children's museum to countless outdoor playscapes and family programming at cultural venues throughout the city.
The Challenges of Austin Living
Rising Cost of Living
Austin's popularity has driven significant cost increases across all categories, particularly housing. While still more affordable than coastal tech hubs, the average home price has more than doubled over the past decade, now exceeding $550,000 for the city proper (somewhat lower in surrounding communities).
Rental markets reflect similar trends, with one-bedroom apartments typically starting around $1,300-$1,500 monthly in desirable areas. This rapid appreciation has displaced many long-time residents from central neighborhoods and presents a significant hurdle for newcomers.
Beyond housing, grocery prices, restaurant meals, and services generally run slightly above the national average, though Texas's lack of state income tax provides some compensation for higher costs in other categories.
Transportation and Traffic
Austin's transportation infrastructure has struggled to keep pace with population growth. The city was designed primarily for cars, and public transportation, while improving, doesn't yet provide comprehensive coverage. Traffic congestion ranks among residents' top complaints, with rush hour commutes on major arteries often doubling or tripling normal travel times.
The city has invested in expanding public transit options, including:
Bus service through Capital Metro, including rapid transit lines
A light rail line with ongoing expansion plans
Improved bicycle infrastructure with dedicated lanes on many major streets
However, most residents still find owning a car necessary for convenient daily living, particularly those living outside the urban core or commuting between different areas of the sprawling metro region.
Weather Extremes
While Austin boasts generally pleasant weather for much of the year, summer heat can be extreme. From approximately June through September, temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, with many days topping 100°F. The heat often persists well into evening, limiting outdoor activities during peak summer months unless they involve water.
Conversely, Austin's limited extreme cold weather means infrastructure isn't always prepared for occasional winter storms, as dramatically demonstrated during the February 2021 freeze that caused widespread power outages. These rare but impactful events can disrupt city services and daily life.
Spring brings spectacular wildflower displays but also the risk of severe thunderstorms and flash flooding, particularly in low-lying areas near creeks and drainage channels. Fall offers ideal conditions, with temperatures moderating and outdoor activities resuming full force.
Growth and Change
Austin's rapid growth presents both opportunities and challenges. The constant construction creates noise and congestion, while newcomers change the character of established neighborhoods. Housing affordability pressures particularly impact creative communities that helped establish Austin's unique culture.
Long-time residents sometimes express nostalgia for "old Austin," while newcomers may encounter subtle resistance from those who feel the city's growth threatens its special character. However, this tension has existed for decades, and Austin continues to evolve while maintaining its fundamental appeal.
Austin Neighborhoods: Finding Your Perfect Fit
Austin's diverse neighborhoods offer distinct atmospheres and amenities. Here's an overview of major areas to consider:
Central Austin
The heart of the city includes downtown and surrounding historic neighborhoods:
Downtown: High-rise condos and apartments offer urban living with walkable access to restaurants, entertainment, and Lady Bird Lake. Prices reflect the premium location, with condos typically starting at $500,000+ for purchase or $1,800+ monthly for rentals.
Clarksville/Old West Austin: Historic charm meets upscale amenities in these established neighborhoods west of downtown. Beautiful homes, tree-lined streets, and proximity to downtown make these among Austin's most desirable and expensive areas.
Hyde Park: Just north of the University of Texas, this neighborhood blends historic homes, apartments, local businesses, and a strong community feel. Popular with professors, graduate students, and professionals seeking central location with more residential character.
East Austin: Once working-class neighborhoods, East Austin has experienced dramatic transformation. Now home to trendy restaurants, cocktail bars, and new developments alongside long-standing communities. The area offers more affordable options than downtown while maintaining urban amenities and distinctive character.
South Austin
Travis Heights/Bouldin Creek: Established neighborhoods south of the river featuring eclectic architecture, mature trees, and proximity to popular South Congress Avenue. Prices have risen dramatically but remain somewhat lower than comparable areas north of the river.
South Lamar/Zilker: Centrally located with easy access to Zilker Park, these neighborhoods combine older homes, new developments, and commercial corridors hosting many of Austin's popular restaurants and shops.
South Congress (SoCo): Centered around the iconic South Congress Avenue shopping and dining district, this area offers a mix of historic homes and new construction with premium prices reflecting the location's desirability.
Far South Austin: Areas like Manchaca Road and South Manchaca offer more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times to downtown, particularly appealing to young families and first-time homebuyers.
North Austin
North Loop/Crestview/Allandale: Established neighborhoods featuring mid-century homes, strong community identity, and increasingly popular restaurant scenes. These areas offer relative value compared to central neighborhoods while maintaining proximity to downtown.
Domain/North Burnet: Centered around The Domain shopping and residential development, this area has emerged as Austin's "second downtown" with high-rise residential options, corporate campuses, and extensive retail and dining.
Tech Corridor: Areas along US-183 from MoPac to Cedar Park house many technology companies and offer newer suburban developments with good schools and amenities.
West Austin and Hill Country
Westlake: Upscale suburb west of downtown featuring excellent schools, larger properties, and hill country views. Home to many executives, professionals, and established families, with prices reflecting its premium status.
Northwest Hills/Great Hills: Established neighborhoods offering larger homes on generous lots, good schools, and proximity to major tech employers along US-183 and Capital of Texas Highway.
Southwest Austin: Growing areas like Circle C Ranch and Oak Hill provide suburban living with newer homes, strong schools, and access to natural areas, though commutes to downtown can be challenging.
Finding Housing in Austin
Understanding the Market
Austin's real estate market moves quickly, requiring preparation and decisive action. Working with a knowledgeable local real estate agent is highly recommended, particularly for newcomers unfamiliar with neighborhood nuances.
For buyers, be prepared for competitive bidding situations in desirable areas. Having pre-approval for financing, being flexible on closing dates, and sometimes being willing to waive certain contingencies can strengthen your position.
For renters, the market typically tightens significantly during summer months when students and many professionals make moves. Starting your search at least 4-6 weeks before your desired move-in date is advisable, with even longer lead times for prime locations or specific requirements.
Rental Considerations
When renting in Austin, be aware of:
Lease terms typically running 12 months, though 6-month and month-to-month options exist at premium prices
Many properties requiring income verification (typically 3x monthly rent)
Application fees and security deposits, often equaling one month's rent
Potential flood zone issues in some areas near creeks or drainage channels
Summer electric bills that can spike significantly due to air conditioning costs
Many newcomers choose to rent initially even if they plan to buy eventually, allowing time to explore different neighborhoods and confirm job stability before making a longer-term commitment.
Buying Considerations
The Austin home buying process follows Texas real estate practices, which differ somewhat from other states. Key points include:
Earnest money deposits (typically 1% of purchase price) demonstrating serious intent
Option periods (usually 7-10 days) allowing inspection and potential renegotiation
Relatively quick closing periods, often 30 days or less
Property tax rates that rank among the highest in the nation, partially offsetting the lack of state income tax
New construction continues throughout the metro area, providing options for those seeking modern amenities and energy efficiency, though often at a premium price point.
Finding Work in Austin
Key Employment Sectors
Austin's diverse economy offers opportunities across multiple sectors:
Technology: From established companies like Apple, Google, Facebook, and Dell to countless startups, tech remains Austin's signature industry. Software development, product management, user experience, and sales roles are particularly abundant.
Healthcare: Major hospital systems, medical practices, research facilities, and health tech companies create a robust healthcare job market for clinical and administrative professionals alike.
Education: The University of Texas system, Austin Community College, and numerous public and private schools employ thousands of educators and staff.
Government: As the Texas state capital, Austin offers stable government positions at state agencies, plus county and city departments.
Creative Industries: Music, film, gaming, marketing, and design studios provide opportunities for creative professionals, though competition can be intense.
Job Search Strategies
Beyond standard job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor, Austin offers several localized resources:
Built In Austin (builtinaustin.com) specializes in tech and startup opportunities
Austin Digital Jobs Facebook group connects job seekers with opportunities and networking
The Austin Chronicle classifieds feature creative industry positions
Austin Tech Alliance and Capital Factory host networking events and job fairs
Networking proves particularly effective in Austin's relationship-oriented business culture. Industry meetups, professional organizations, and informal happy hours frequently lead to job opportunities before they're publicly posted.
For those in creative fields, Austin's gig economy provides supplemental income options while establishing local connections, though financial stability can be challenging without full-time employment.
Practical Tips for New Austinites
Navigating the City
Austin's basic geography centers around the Colorado River (locally called Lady Bird Lake through downtown) dividing north and south, with Interstate 35 serving as the rough east-west divider.
Major highways include:
I-35 running north-south through the city center
MoPac Expressway (Loop 1) paralleling I-35 to the west
US-183 forming a north-south artery in east Austin
SH-71/US-290 serving east-west traffic
Capital of Texas Highway (Loop 360) connecting western neighborhoods
Navigation apps are essential given frequent construction and traffic patterns that vary significantly by time of day. Local knowledge like avoiding I-35 during rush hour can save substantial time and frustration.
Adapting to the Climate
Austin's climate requires specific adaptations:
Strategic outdoor activity timing (early morning or evening during summer months)
Consistent hydration, particularly for newcomers unaccustomed to the heat
Residential features like ceiling fans, shade trees, and energy-efficient windows
Wardrobes spanning sandals and shorts to occasional cold-weather gear for temperature swings
Sun protection for the 300+ sunny days annually
Learning seasonal patterns helps plan activities appropriately, with October through May offering ideal conditions for outdoor exploration.
Cultural Integration
Embracing Austin's distinctive culture helps newcomers feel connected more quickly:
Explore locally-owned businesses rather than just national chains
Sample the diverse food scene beyond the famous barbecue spots
Attend community events from farmers' markets to neighborhood festivals
Participate in outdoor activities like kayaking Lady Bird Lake or hiking the Greenbelt
Discover live music venues matching your preferred genres
Austin generally welcomes newcomers, though demonstrating appreciation for local traditions and businesses helps forge authentic connections with longer-term residents.
Special Considerations
Certain relocation circumstances present unique emotional challenges:
Job-Related Moves: Career transitions combined with geographic changes create compound stressors. If work expectations feel overwhelming while you're still learning to navigate Austin, ADHD counseling can provide strategies for managing competing demands and establishing sustainable routines in your new environment.
Relationship Relocations: Moving for a partner's opportunity can create complex dynamics, particularly if your own career or social connections develop more slowly. Marriage counseling or couples therapy offers a structured space to address these imbalances before resentment develops. Even healthy relationships benefit from proactive communication during major transitions like relocation.
Family Transitions: Children and teens experience relocation differently than adults, sometimes struggling with new schools and friend groups even when parents are thriving. Family counseling can help all members navigate these changes while maintaining supportive connections with each other.
Building Connection
Proactively cultivating social connections significantly improves relocation experiences:
Join activity groups aligned with personal interests (recreational sports, creative pursuits, volunteer organizations)
Explore neighborhood community centers and events
Consider faith communities if spiritually inclined
Utilize apps like Meetup and Bumble BFF designed for friendship formation
Accept initial invitations even when tired from moving activities
While digital connections help maintain previous relationships, investing energy in local community development ultimately determines how quickly Austin feels like home.
Finding Support During Your Transition
Major life changes like relocation can trigger or exacerbate anxiety, depression, relationship strain, and identity questions. Individual counseling provides a confidential space to process these experiences with professional guidance.
At Sagebrush Counseling, we specialize in supporting clients through moving to new cities, including:
Adjusting to new cities and cultures
Managing career changes and workplace challenges
Navigating relationship dynamics altered by relocation
Addressing loneliness or depression in Austin
Developing strategies for ADHD management disrupted by changing routines
Our virtual counseling options offer flexibility perfect for busy newcomers still establishing routines, allowing you to connect from the comfort of your home as you settle into Austin life.
Austin's Hidden Gems Beyond the Headlines
While Austin's famous attractions deserve their reputation, discovering lesser-known favorites accelerates the feeling of belonging:
Natural Retreats
Commons Ford Ranch: Less crowded alternative to the Greenbelt with beautiful Colorado River access
Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve: Secluded hiking just minutes from downtown
Secret Beach: Locals-favorite river access point in Roy G. Guerrero Park
Mayfield Park: Historic cottage with peacocks roaming the gardens
Bull Creek District Park: Limestone creek beds and swimming holes with fewer crowds than Barton Creek
Culinary Discoveries
The Backstage Steakhouse: Intimate live music venue combined with excellent dining in Spicewood
Genuine Joe Coffeehouse: Community-focused cafe hosting game nights and local artists
Dai Due: Restaurant and butcher shop emphasizing local, sustainable ingredients
Fresa's: Much more than just the excellent rotisserie chicken that made them famous
Cosmic Coffee + Beer Garden: Sustainability-focused outdoor space with food trucks and live music
Cultural Experiences
The Contemporary Austin-Laguna Gloria: Sculpture park on beautiful Lake Austin grounds
Austin Central Library: Architectural marvel with rooftop garden and literary events
Yard Dog Art Gallery: Folk and outsider art from across the South
Carousel Lounge: Quirky circus-themed dive bar with eclectic performances
Austin Paramount Theatre: Historic venue hosting classic films and live performances
Exploring these less touristy destinations provides both authentic Austin experiences and conversation starters with established residents who appreciate newcomers discovering the city's depth beyond obvious attractions.
Making Your Austin Transition Successful
The most successful Austin relocations share common elements:
Set Realistic Expectations
Austin offers tremendous opportunities and quality of life, but unrealistic expectations create disappointment. Understand that:
Building a social network takes time and consistent effort
Traffic and housing costs reflect Austin's popularity
Summer heat requires lifestyle adjustments
The "weird" Austin of popular imagination coexists with corporate headquarters and luxury developments
Approaching the transition with realistic expectations allows you to appreciate Austin's genuine benefits while developing strategies for its challenges.
Embrace Exploration
Austin's diverse neighborhoods and surrounding Hill Country communities each offer distinct experiences. Rather than limiting yourself to the immediate area around your home or workplace, set aside time for intentional exploration:
Try restaurants in different parts of town
Visit various parks and natural areas
Attend cultural events in unfamiliar neighborhoods
Take day trips to nearby communities like Lockhart, Fredericksburg, or Wimberley
This exploration not only enriches your Austin experience but also helps identify areas where you feel most comfortable for future housing decisions.
Prioritize Self-Care
Relocation ranks among life's most stressful experiences, often requiring more intentional self-care than usual. Whether that means maintaining exercise routines, scheduling video calls with distant friends, or seeking professional support through individual counseling, acknowledging the transition's emotional impact improves long-term outcomes.
For those managing conditions like ADHD, anxiety, or depression, establishing care with local providers or continuing virtual relationships with trusted professionals provides continuity during a period of significant change.
Ready to Call Austin Home?
Austin offers a rare combination of economic opportunity, cultural richness, natural beauty, and community spirit that continues attracting newcomers despite the challenges of growth. The city rewards those who engage authentically with its diverse offerings while bringing their own contributions to its evolving identity.
While any relocation involves both practical hurdles and emotional adjustment, Austin's generally welcoming atmosphere and variety of communities make finding your place more accessible than in many cities of comparable size.
As you prepare for this significant transition, remember that building a fulfilling life in a new city takes time. Be patient with yourself during the adjustment period, actively seek connections, and don't hesitate to ask for support when needed.
Finding Your Austin Therapist
If you'd like professional support during your transition to Austin life, Sagebrush Counseling offers virtual counseling sessions that fit seamlessly into your schedule. Whether you're seeking couples therapy to navigate relationship dynamics altered by relocation, ADHD counseling to establish new routines, or simply a space to process the emotional aspects of this major life change, we're here to help.
Virtual counseling eliminates commute time and offers the comfort of connecting from your own space—particularly valuable when everything else in your life feels new and unfamiliar. To learn more about how therapy can support your Austin transition or to schedule a consultation, visit Sagebrush Counseling today.
Welcome to Austin—we hope you'll soon be calling this vibrant city home!
