Austin, Texas, known as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” remains one of the most coveted places to live in the U.S. From a booming tech industry and lively cultural scene to outdoor recreation and Southern charm, it is easy to see why families and professionals are moving to this vibrant city.
This guide goes over cost of living, job opportunities, neighborhoods, schools, transportation, and tips on selecting a reliable moving company to help you plan your move with ease.
Quick Facts About Austin
- Population: ~1 million (Metro Area: ~2.4 million)
- Median Home Price: ~$500,000
- Median Rent (1-bedroom): $1,600–$2,000/month
- Unemployment Rate: Below the national average
- Key Industries: Technology, Healthcare, Education, Government
- Famous For: Live Music, Food Trucks, Tech Startups, Outdoor Lifestyle
Cost of Living and Job Market
Austin’s cost of living has skyrocketed, mainly driven by the expansion of tech industries and the ever-growing demand of urban living.
- Housing: Median home price ~$500,000 | Rent: $1,600–$2,000/month
- Utilities: Manageable; however, it is prone to energy bill increase during summer
- Transportation: Owning a car is necessary.
- Groceries & Dining: Slightly above national average
Highlights of Job Market:
- Key Employers: Dell Technologies, Apple, The University of Texas at Austin
- Key Industries: Tech, Healthcare, Education
- Growing trend for remote work.
Mover’s Tip: Check out tech and healthcare-they make up most of Austin’s job market.
Pros and Cons of Living in Austin
Pros:
- Thriving tech job market
- Thriving cultural and live music scene
- Warm weather for those who love spending time outdoors.
- Diverse and eclectic neighborhoods
Cons:
- Rising housing costs
- Heavy traffic and lack of public transportation
- Hot and humid summers
- General rising cost of living
Mover’s Tip: Schedule your move during spring or fall to avoid the hottest summer months.
Education in Austin
Austin offers excellent public, charter, and private schools, alongside higher education options.
Top School Districts:
- Eanes ISD: Known for academic excellence.
- Round Rock ISD: Family-friendly environment
- Austin ISD: Diverse programs and schools
Higher Education:
- The University of Texas at Austin: World-class research institution
- St. Edward’s University: Renowned liberal arts programs
Mover’s Tip: Research school districts if relocating with children—they can influence housing choices.
Healthcare Facilities in Austin
Austin is home to top-tier healthcare facilities:
- Dell Seton Medical Center
- St. David’s HealthCare
- Ascension Seton Medical Center
Mover’s Tip: Check your health insurance for Austin’s top hospitals.
Culture and Outdoor Recreation
Austin combines art, music, food, and outdoor recreation seamlessly.
Festivals:
- SXSW: Technology, music, and film festival
- Austin City Limits (ACL): The most iconic music festival
- Texas Book Festival: A literary festival
Outdoor Gems:
- Lady Bird Lake: Kayaking and hiking trails.
- Zilker Park: Perfect for picnics and festivals
- Barton Springs Pool: A natural spring-fed swimming hole
Mover’s Tip: Take advantage of outdoor activities early in the mornings or evenings when it’s summer.
Sustainability and Green Living
- Austin is an eco-friendly city with:
- Bike-share programs.
- Recycling and composting programs
- Green building incentives
Mover’s Tip: Look for bike-friendly neighborhoods if sustainability is your concern.
Best Neighborhoods in Austin
- There are neighborhoods to suit every lifestyle in Austin:
- Downtown Austin: Urban feel, nightlife, walkability
- South Congress (SoCo): Artsy neighborhood, trendy eats
- Zilker: Close to outdoor parks
- Hyde Park: Historic homes, quiet streets
- The Domain: Modern high-rises, upscale amenities
Mover’s Tip: Visit neighborhoods in person before committing to housing.
Getting Around Austin
Austin is largely car-dependent with limited public transport.
- Driving: Preferred mode of transport
- Public Transit: Capital Metro buses and limited rail lines
- Biking/Walking: Downtown is pedestrian and bike friendly.
Mover’s Tip: Choose housing close to your workplace to avoid long commutes.
How to Choose a Reliable Moving Company
- A smooth move starts with a trusted mover:
- Research Online Reviews: Yelp, Google, BBB
- Verify Licenses & Insurance: Make sure they are compliant!
- Get Multiple Quotes: Compare at least three options!
- Ask About Hidden Fees: Clarify costs upfront!
- Choose Local Expertise: Local movers know Austin well!
Mover’s Tip: Book movers in advance, especially during peak seasons.
FAQs About Moving to Austin
- Is Austin a good place to move to?
Yes! Austin offers job growth, cultural richness, and outdoor activities.
- What salary is needed to live comfortably in Austin?
$70,000–$90,000 per year for a single person
- What is Austin known for?
Live music scene, tech sector, food trucks, parks outdoors
- When to move?
Spring or fall. Bring some mild weather.
- Which neighborhoods are good for families?
Zilker, Hyde Park, Barton Hills
- Can Movers.com help me find a moving company?
YES! Movers.com offers free quotes from trusted movers.
Final Thoughts on Moving to Austin
Austin combines economic opportunities, cultural vibrancy, and regional hospitality, making the place irresistibly engaging. So, whether you are considering a new career opportunity, outdoor fun, or just enjoying the unique charm of a city like Austin, it offers you all.
Plan, decide on the best area, and team up with a reputable relocation service to guarantee a hassle-free move.
Welcome to Austin, where adventure awaits!
