Transportation

The Ultimate Guide To Relocating To Austin: Everything You Need To Know

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 

  1. A smooth move starts with a trusted mover: 

  1. Research Online Reviews: Yelp, Google, BBB 

  1. Verify Licenses & Insurance: Make sure they are compliant! 

  1. Get Multiple Quotes: Compare at least three options! 

  1. Ask About Hidden Fees: Clarify costs upfront! 

  1. Choose Local Expertise: Local movers know Austin well! 

Mover's Tip: Book movers in advance, especially during peak seasons. 

 

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!