Relocating to Austin

Austin has been one of America's top relocation destinations for years, and for good reason. The combination of a thriving job market, vibrant culture, outdoor lifestyle, and no state income tax draws thousands of new residents annually. Whether you're moving for work, family, or a fresh start, this guide covers everything you need to know about life in Austin.

Why People Relocate to Austin

Austin attracts relocators from across the country for many reasons:

• Job Market: Apple, Tesla, Google, Oracle, Meta, Samsung, and hundreds of startups
• No State Income Tax: Significant savings, especially for high earners
• Quality of Life: Live music, outdoor recreation, food scene, and community
• Education: University of Texas, excellent K-12 options, and growing higher ed
• Outdoor Lifestyle: 300+ days of sunshine, lakes, trails, and parks
• Cultural Energy: SXSW, ACL, diverse arts scene, and creative community
• Growth Opportunity: One of the fastest-growing metros in the US

Understanding Austin Neighborhoods

Downtown & Urban Core

Downtown Austin, the Second Street District, Rainey Street, and surrounding areas offer walkable urban living with restaurants, bars, and entertainment. Condos and lofts range from $350,000 to $2 million+. Best for young professionals and those who want to be in the center of the action.

Central Austin

Neighborhoods like Tarrytown, Zilker, Travis Heights, and Bouldin Creek are established communities with character, mature trees, and proximity to everything. Homes range from $600,000 to well over $2 million. Best for buyers who want urban convenience with neighborhood charm.

East Austin

The city's most dynamic area, with a thriving food, music, and art scene. Mueller offers new-urbanist community living. Prices range from $400,000 for condos to $1 million+ for houses. Best for creatives, foodies, and urban lifestyle seekers.

North Austin & Round Rock

Excellent schools, tech corridor proximity (Apple, Dell), and newer construction. The Domain offers a second downtown experience. Prices range from $350,000 to $800,000+. Best for tech workers and families.

Cedar Park & Leander

Fast-growing suburbs with top-rated Leander ISD schools and family-friendly communities. More affordable than central Austin with MetroRail access. Best for families seeking value and great schools.

Hill Country West (Dripping Springs, Bee Cave, Lakeway)

Stunning Hill Country scenery, Lake Travis access, and top-rated Lake Travis ISD and Dripping Springs ISD schools. Prices range from $450,000 to several million. Best for those wanting space, nature, and excellent schools.

South Austin (Buda, Kyle)

Growing communities south of the city with newer construction and more affordable options. Good access to Austin via I-35 and SH 45. Best for budget-conscious buyers who don't mind a commute.

Cost of Living

Austin's cost of living has increased but remains competitive with other major tech hubs:

Financial Advantages

• No State Income Tax: Saves 5-13%+ compared to California, New York, etc.
• Housing: More affordable than Bay Area, NYC, Seattle, and LA
• Outdoor Entertainment: Free trails, parks, swimming, and live music

Higher Costs to Budget For

• Property Taxes: 1.8-2.5% of home value annually
• Summer Energy Bills: AC runs hard June-September ($200-400/month)
• Auto Insurance: Texas rates are above national average
• Healthcare: Generally in line with national averages

Employment & Job Market

Major Employers

• Technology: Apple, Tesla, Google, Oracle, Meta, Samsung, Dell, Indeed, Visa
• Government: State of Texas, City of Austin, Travis County
• Education: University of Texas, Austin ISD, and other districts
• Healthcare: Ascension Seton, St. David's, Baylor Scott & White
• Military: Camp Mabry, nearby Fort Cavazos
• Startups: Hundreds of venture-backed startups across sectors

Remote Work Culture

Austin has embraced remote and hybrid work. Many tech companies offer flexible arrangements, and the city's coffee shop and coworking culture supports remote professionals. Co-working spaces like WeWork, Capital Factory, and numerous independent spaces are found throughout the city.

Schools & Education

Top School Districts

• Eanes ISD: Consistently ranked among the best in Texas (Westlake area)
• Round Rock ISD: Large, diverse district with excellent campuses
• Lake Travis ISD: Strong academics in the western lake communities
• Leander ISD: Fast-growing with highly rated newer schools
• Dripping Springs ISD: Small-town feel with strong academics
• Austin ISD: Largest district, most variation—some exceptional campuses

Private School Options

• St. Stephen's Episcopal School
• St. Andrew's Episcopal School
• Austin Waldorf School
• Regents School of Austin
• Griffin School

Higher Education

• University of Texas at Austin (flagship state university)
• St. Edward's University
• Concordia University Texas
• Austin Community College (extensive community college system)

Healthcare

Austin has excellent healthcare facilities:

• Dell Medical School/UT Health Austin: Academic medical center
• Ascension Seton Medical Center: Major hospital network
• St. David's Healthcare: Comprehensive hospital system
• Baylor Scott & White: Multiple locations in the metro
• Dell Children's Medical Center: Specialized pediatric care

Unlike many smaller Texas cities, Austin offers virtually every medical specialty locally, reducing the need for travel for specialized care.

Weather & Climate

• Summers: Hot and humid, 95-105°F, June through September
• Winters: Mild, 45-65°F, occasional cold fronts bring brief freezes
• Spring: Beautiful, 70-85°F, wildflower season in March-April
• Fall: The best season, 70-85°F, low humidity, October is perfect
• Rain: ~34 inches annually, spring and fall are wettest

Austin Lifestyle

Live Music

Austin is the Live Music Capital of the World, with live performances every night at hundreds of venues. SXSW (March), ACL Music Festival (October), and countless local shows define the culture.

Food & Drink

World-class barbecue, legendary breakfast tacos, innovative restaurants, and a thriving craft brewery and distillery scene. The food truck culture is an Austin institution.

Outdoor Recreation

Barton Springs Pool, Lady Bird Lake, Barton Creek Greenbelt, Mount Bonnell, and over 300 parks. Lake Travis and Lake Austin for boating and waterfront relaxation.

Making the Move

Before You Move

• Research neighborhoods based on your work location and priorities
• Get pre-approved for a mortgage to understand your budget
• Visit the city and tour neighborhoods in person
• Connect with a local real estate agent who knows the relocation process

After Arrival

• Get a Texas driver's license within 90 days
• Register your vehicle in Texas within 30 days
• Register to vote at your new address
• Set up utilities (Austin Energy, Texas Gas Service, Austin Water)
• Explore your neighborhood—meet neighbors, find your spots
• File for homestead exemption on your property by April 30

Is Austin Right for You?

Austin is Great For...

• Tech professionals and entrepreneurs
• Families seeking excellent schools and outdoor lifestyle
• Music and food lovers
• People who love the outdoors
• Those seeking a creative, welcoming community
• Anyone looking to escape high state income taxes

Consider Carefully If You...

• Strongly dislike hot, humid summers
• Need to be near the ocean
• Prefer a compact, walkable city without driving
• Are looking for extremely low cost of living
• Prefer a quieter, less rapidly changing community