Your Guide to Living in Austin

We’ve put together a comprehensive guide full of information, our favorite Austin highlights, and a comparative city guide so you can make the most informed decision for your move to Austin.

Moving to Austin

So you’re planning on moving to Austin. Now comes the tough decision of what neighborhood to choose. Do you prefer the bustling downtown vibe? Or perhaps a close-knit suburb tucked just outside of the city? Regardless of your preference, Austin has a wide variety of communities to choose from.

The city of Austin has seen tremendous growth throughout the past decade. Consistently, the city has graced the nation’s list of the fastest-growing cities. Recent data from the U.S. Census shows that Austin saw a 33.7% population growth between 2010 and 2020. So let’s take a look at why everyone is packing their bags and making a move to the vibrant city of Austin.

The Five Best Things About Moving To Austin

1. Outdoor Recreation

   The outdoor recreation scene alone could be the sole reason to move to Austin. With over 300 parks, 123 scenic hiking trails, seven popular lakes and reservoirs, and a nearby Wildlife Refuge, the outdoor activity potential is endless. Locals and visitors spend their days lounging at Barton Springs Pool in the heart of Zilker Park, hiking trails in the Texas Hill Country, or biking the Barton Creek Greenbelt across the city.

2. Music & Arts

   It’s not called ‘The Live Music Capital of the World’ for nothing. Whatever your musical taste, we’re sure there’s a place in the city to enjoy it. During the summers, local bars such as the Broken Spoke or Carousel Lounge are a fun place to enjoy live music with friends and family. In addition, notable locations like The Moody Theater have held iconic names in the music industry.

3. Culinary Scene

   From southern comfort food to intricate craft dishes, the culinary scene in Austin is inspiring and delicious. Throughout Austin, the culinary scene has grown right alongside the technology industry and outdoor recreation opportunities. In addition, if you’re a fan of barbeque, there are some local highlights you’ll want to check out, such as:

   • Franklin Barbecue
   • Interstellar BBQ
   • Terry Black’s Barbecue
   • Micklethwait Craft Meats
4. Sports & Events

   When you think of Texas, you often think of football. Austin is home to the Texas Longhorns from The University of Texas at Austin. The energetic college atmosphere contributes to the youthful energy of the city. While Austin mainly focuses on college-level sports, within a short drive, you have access to attend NFL and NBA games in Houston, Dallas, or San Antonio.

5. Economy & Commerce

   Austin’s economy is primarily rooted in education and governmental industries. However, recent decades have seen a transition toward technology, manufacturing, and corporate headquarters. The development of new industries in the local economy has been incredible for creating new jobs and igniting the boom in the housing market. Moreover, Austin shows no signs of slowing down as more companies look to move their facilities to the Austin area.

Living in Austin

The “Keep Austin Weird” motto sheds some light on the culture and youthful vibe of the city. Living in Austin offers diverse opportunities for those looking to call the city home with a thriving music scene, outdoor recreation, and an expansive and booming economy. While the immediate city is vibrant, the surrounding suburbs offer a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. Living in nearby areas such as Round Rock, Cedar Park, or Lakeside provides closer proximity to the outdoors while still having access to the fun downtown events and activities.

Compare Life in Austin to Other Cities