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Moving To Austin: Jobs, Things To Do, and Real Estate Tips

Thinking of moving to Austin, Texas? Or maybe you already made the decision and are starting to plan what your new life here will be like. Either way, moving to Austin can be an exciting decision. Here’s what you need to know about the live music capital of the world and how you can make this city your new home.

Moving To Austin: What To Expect

moving to austin: greenbelt in texas

Each year, thousands of people make the move to Austin. In recent years, the influx of people has increased dramatically — with Austin being one of the top choices for young professionals and families. 

The Austin area is now home to huge tech companies with companies like Oracle and Tesla moving their headquarters from California to the city and large campuses for companies like Apple and Dell. This trend has earned the city a new name: Silicon Hills. That means Austin offers a huge range of benefits for people looking to make the move. Here’s what you need to know about moving to Austin — from details on the job and housing markets to popular things to do and what makes the city so enticing.

The Job Market

It’s no secret that the Austin job market is booming. With the recent opening of the Tesla Gigafactory and more and more companies moving to the Austin city limits, there are tons of jobs. There is also a decent amount of competition, but young professionals stand a good chance of landing a well-paid job in this city. 

As the capital of the Lone Star State, there are hundreds of government jobs in addition to tech industry positions. There are also many jobs in the healthcare and medical fields as well as opportunities at startups. For remote workers, the city offers plenty of coffee shops and coworking spaces to network and get shit done.

Top Things To Do

When it comes to things to do in Austin, there’s something for everyone. As a new Austinite, you’ll need to learn some of the town’s monikers. One is that Austin is the live music capital of the world. Here, you can attend world class music festivals — including the popular South by Southwest (SXSW) — as well as find new and upcoming talent in local dive bars and music venues throughout the city. The city has a rich history in jazz and blues music as well as country. Musicians like Willie Nelson, Janis Joplin, the Dixie Chicks, and Stevie Ray Vaughn all found their start in Austin.

Another saying Austinites love is “keep Austin weird”. Initially started by the Austin Independent Business Alliance to promote small businesses. It’s a nod to Austin’s cultural heritage which includes funky vibes and a focus on local influences that make Austin unique. Today, these weird vibes manifest in fun culinary fusions, interesting nightlife concepts, and a generally laid-back and fun lifestyle.

Austin is also one of the more green cities in the country with tons of outdoor activities. Within the city limits, there are dozens of opportunities to get outside and explore nature. There are dirt and paved biking trails — including the famous Velodrome plus some mountain biking trails in nearby state parks just outside the city of Austin. Take a stroll through Zilker Park or enjoy the boardwalk on Lady Bird Lake where you can drink in views of the big city and the Colorado River below.

Austin is also home to some exceptional swimming holes (Barton Springs!) and water activities thanks to Lady Bird Lake and Lake Travis. There, you can go kayaking, paddle boarding, or float on a hot, sunny day.

The capital of Texas has several greenbelts and is also close to Central Texas cities like Dallas and San Antonio. It’s the best of both worlds, offering easy excursions to nature activities in nearby Hill Country or city adventures in metropolises just a few hours away.

One thing that makes Austin so famous is its food scene. Popular among foodie travelers and professional chefs alike, Austin has something for everyone. From food trucks that serve up delicious breakfast tacos and queso to five-star sushi restaurants serving fresh fish that’s flown in from Japan every day the town really does offer a wide range of culinary delights.

Coming To Terms With Real Estate

With so much increased demand, the cost of living in Austin has increased — though it’s still more affordable than many metropolitan cities like San Francisco and New York. The cost of living is lower than the national average and residents enjoy no income taxes, but the cost of housing and home prices are higher than the national average. If you’re looking to buy a house in Austin, there are a few things you should know about the housing market. 

First, it’s a good idea to work with a real estate agent in Austin. Since the market is hot, a professional agent can help you navigate the buying process and make it easier for you to make an offer that will be accepted, even in a competitive market. A real estate agent can also help you understand the best neighborhoods for your needs. Brentwood, Pflugerville, and South Lamar are popular neighborhoods for families. They’ll have in-depth knowledge of public transportation options and the best school districts if you’re moving with your family. 

The most expensive Austin neighborhoods are near the downtown Austin area. In general, North Austin, South Austin, and the suburbs tend to be more affordable. For more affordable options, you can look in Cedar Park, Cherrywood, and North University — a great choice for students looking to attend the University of Texas at Austin with a more mild vibe than the rowdy West University neighborhood. East Austin is also a trendy family-friendly neighborhood that offers more affordable housing and is still very close to downtown.

Make The Move and Live Like a Local

Austin, Texas skyline

If you’re moving to Austin, ATX Guides has tons of resources to make your transition easier. Check out our guides on the best movers in Austin if you’ve already landed a job and are ready to make the move or view our tips on the best jobs in Austin if you’re just starting your search. 

Plus, you’ll find tips on living in Austin including advice on hunting down the best spots in the music scene or where to go for the best tacos and Tex-Mex in town. Join thousands of Texans that call the state capital home and see why this city has become so popular.

Author
Erika Marty
Erika Marty

Erika is an avid traveler who has been to more than 60 countries where she finds food, activities, and hidden locales for touring like a local. When she’s not writing, she enjoys mountain biking, hiking, and planning her next adventure.

Learn more about Erika