An aerial view of the Texas State Capitol in Austin with a large green space in front and an overlooking view of the city.

Everything You Need to Know About Moving to Austin


There's a contagious energy about Austin, a pulsating rhythm that feels both laid-back and electric all at once. It's no wonder that so many are drawn to its vibrant streets and scenic landscapes. With its unique blend of tech innovation, live music, outdoor fun, and mouthwatering cuisine, there's no other city quite like it. As you'll discover, Austin was even ranked as the 19th Best City for Young Professionals in America by Niche.com.

Living expenses in Austin

Fast Facts:

  • Overall Cost of Living Index: 129.4 (U.S. average is 100)
  • State Comparison: Texas has an overall cost of living index of 94.2.
  • Grocery Index: 96.7 (U.S. average is 100)
  • Healthcare Index: 101.6 (U.S. average is 100)
  • Housing Index: 189 (U.S. average is 100)
  • Median Home Cost: $577,400 (Texas: $297,600, U.S. average: $338,100)
  • Utilities Index: 99.1 (U.S. average is 100)
  • Transportation Index: 109.9 (U.S. average is 100)
  • Miscellaneous Index: 105.9 (U.S. average is 100)
  • Quality of Life: Known for high quality of life and diverse entertainment options.
  • Housing Options: Austin offers a spectrum of housing choices from single-family homes to stylish apartments.
  • Expense Comparison: In Austin, you’ll find that groceries and transportation are generally more affordable than in many parts of the U.S.
Living in Austin is a unique experience, and its cost of living reflects its special character. While certain expenses such as housing might be higher than the national average, the overall quality of life and the vibrant entertainment scene makes the city worth every penny. According to bestplaces.net, the overall cost of living index is 129.4, slightly higher than the national average. Yet, the charm of Austin combined with its high living standards, can make it a compelling choice for relocation.

Climate details of Austin

When it comes to weather, Austin truly showcases the beauty of all four seasons. The city has a humid subtropical climate, which means hot summers and pleasantly mild winters. During the peak of summer, temperatures can average in the high 80s to low 90s °F, with July soaring to around 95 °F. As for winter, the temperature hovers between 50-60 °F, dropping to an average low of 38 °F in January.

Austin receives about 35 inches of rainfall annually, slightly less than the U.S. average of 38 inches. The city witnesses most of its rain from May to September. Interestingly, snow lovers might be a tad disappointed as the city sees virtually no snowfall in a year. With a generous 228 sunny days, compared to the U.S. average of 205 days, and 79 days with precipitation, it's a blend of bright skies and refreshing rain. The city is also known for its frequent thunderstorms, especially during the spring and summer, thanks to its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico.

Employment opportunities in Austin

Austin has long been a hub for creativity and innovation, making it a magnet for job seekers. The city's thriving tech industry, dubbed the "Silicon Hills", is home to a slew of startups and established tech giants alike. Aside from tech, the music scene, healthcare, and education sectors also offer a wide range of opportunities for professionals.

Educational institutions in Austin

Education in Austin is vibrant and diverse. The city prides itself on a robust public school system, with several schools consistently ranked among Texas' best. For those leaning towards private education, Austin boasts a multitude of institutions that offer rigorous academic curriculums, coupled with holistic developmental activities.

Higher education is one of Austin's crowning jewels. The University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) is a major draw, known globally for its research contributions, impressive academic programs, and spirited Longhorns sports teams. St. Edward's University and Huston-Tillotson University are other esteemed establishments that enrich the academic fabric of the city.

Moreover, Austin offers specialized institutions for arts, technology, and vocational training, ensuring that every student finds a niche that aligns with their aspirations.

Things to Do in Austin

Austin is brimming with activities that cater to a diverse range of interests. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a culture vulture, or someone who loves to explore the off-beat, Austin has something special for you.

Outdoor Adventures: The city is blessed with numerous natural spots perfect for relaxation and recreation. Barton Springs Pool is a natural spring that offers refreshing swims almost year-round. Lady Bird Lake provides a serene setting for paddleboarding, canoeing, or taking a leisurely stroll along its trail. Mount Bonnell is perfect for those seeking panoramic city views after a short hike.

Cultural Expeditions: The Bullock Texas State History Museum and the Blanton Museum of Art offer insightful glimpses into Texan history and art, respectively. For a quirky experience, the Museum of the Weird on 6th Street promises oddities that are both intriguing and fun.

Live Shows & Festivals: Beyond its vibrant nightly music scene, Austin hosts numerous events like the Austin City Limits Music Festival and South by Southwest (SXSW) which draw international crowds.

Shopping Local: South Congress Avenue, affectionately known as SoCo, boasts an array of boutique stores, vintage shops, and artisan markets. It's an ideal place to pick up a unique Austin souvenir or simply window shop.

Theatre and Film: The Paramount Theatre is a century-old performance venue hosting everything from film premiers to stand-up comedy. For movie buffs, catching a film at the Alamo Drafthouse is a must-do, especially if it's one of their signature sing-alongs or quote-alongs.

Gardens and Parks: The Zilker Botanical Garden offers a tranquil escape with themed gardens, while Mayfield Park provides peacock-filled grounds and historic cottage gardens.

Culinary and Craft Beer Tours: With its rich food and craft beer scene, taking a guided tour can be an insightful (and delicious) way to explore Austin's best offerings.

Dining in Austin

Austin's culinary scene is as diverse as its populace. From gourmet eateries to food trucks, there's a plate for every palate.

Barbecue: No visit (or life in Austin) is complete without trying its renowned barbecue. Franklin Barbecue on E 11th Street is arguably the most famous, with lines starting early in the morning. If waiting isn't your thing, Micklethwait Craft Meats offers an equally sumptuous spread.

Tex-Mex: It's hard to resist the allure of Tex-Mex in Austin. Torchy's Tacos has earned a cult-like following for its inventive taco offerings. For a more classic experience, Matt's El Rancho serves up legendary dishes like the Bob Armstrong dip.

Asian Fusion: For those craving flavors from the East, Ramen Tatsu-Ya provides a comforting bowl of ramen, while Sway offers modern Thai cuisine in a stylish setting.

Food Trucks: Austin's food truck scene is legendary. Whether you're in the mood for gourmet donuts from Gourdough's or mouth-watering kebabs from Kebabalicious, the city's food trucks cater to every craving.

Nightlife in Austin

From laid-back lounges to energetic dance floors, Austin's nightlife promises memorable nights out.

Live Music: The city's live music scene is unparalleled. The Continental Club on South Congress has been showcasing live music since 1955, covering everything from rockabilly to punk. Mohawk Austin in Red River Cultural District is another iconic venue where both local and international bands play.

Bars and Pubs: If you're looking for craft beers, Banger's Sausage House & Beer Garden offers over a hundred on tap. For a more intimate setting, Midnight Cowboy on 6th Street is a reservation-only cocktail lounge, set in a former brothel.

Dance Clubs: For those looking to dance the night away, Barbarella is a popular spot, known for its themed dance nights. Meanwhile, The White Horse is where you can boot-scoot to live country music.

Rooftop Lounges: For a mix of cocktails and views, Azul Rooftop Pool Bar + Lounge provides panoramic views of downtown Austin. It's the perfect spot to catch a Texas sunset.

Find your place in Austin with Jo Vincent

Jo Vincent isn't just a Realtor in Austin – she's a success story. As one of the top-performing Realtors in the Greater Austin area, Jo has built a reputation that resonates with both her peers and her clients. If you're on the hunt for a home, or simply have questions about the Austin real estate market, don't hesitate to contact Jo Vincent today.

*Header photo courtesy of Shutterstock


Work With Jo

Jo works with sellers and buyers to get the best value which is evident through her top-notch negotiating skills. Many of her clients have described Jo’s style as very communicative and knowledgeable you can expect many property reports and thorough overviews of neighborhoods.

Follow Jo on Instagram