5 Tips for Moving to Austin, TX

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You’ve probably heard all about the live music, the legendary tacos, and that Austin vibe that’s equal parts chill and weird.  

While Austin’s charm is undeniable, it’s not exactly the hip paradise you might have imagined.

Shocking?

Moving here takes a little more than just settling in. You need to know the real Austin, which mixes high-energy festivals, backyard barbecues, and unexpected traffic jams.

Austin defies its reputation in more ways than one and is certainly full of surprises for new residents, even if you are coming from another Texas city.

To help you successfully navigate moving to Austin, here are 5 tips that you should know about before loading up your moving truck.

1. Prepare for the Cost of Living — It’s Not All Cheap

Yes, Texas is known for relatively affordable living, but Austin’s skyrocketing popularity has added a twist to that. 

Austin’s overall cost of living is 2% lower than the national average. However, housing prices have steadily increased, especially in areas close to downtown and trendy spots like South Congress or East Austin. 

The real estate market valuations in Austin are currently 6% higher than the national average.

Even rental prices can be shocking if you come from a smaller town or other Texas cities. However, compared to larger metro areas like New York, Austin is still doable with the right planning.

• Average House Rent: $1,703
• Median Household Income: $86,556

But how much money do you need to live comfortably in Austin?

Well, suppose your annual income is less than $122,000, you may have to forgo some of your needs or wants at some points. 

Seeing that your median income may be less than this, you can look for up-and-coming neighborhoods like South Manchaca or St. John’s, where you will find reasonable rents without compromising access to Austin’s highlights. 

Note:

If you plan on buying a home, start with an honest budget. However, you should expect a competitive market, especially if you are eyeing central areas. 

2. Brace Yourself for the Austin Traffic, but Get Creative with Your Routes

One thing you need to prepare your mind for upon moving to Austin is the rude awakening that is the traffic. 

It’s true about the city’s constant expansion, but the infrastructure is still playing catch-up. From gridlock on I-35 to unexpected congestion on local streets, traffic here can be a real bear. 

Peak hours are no joke, either!

But while Waze and Google Maps are great, the locals know the real key to surviving traffic lies in timing and knowing alternative routes. You should keep this in mind when hiring a moving company so you don’t engage the services of one with no local knowledge.

In the meantime…

Avoid major highways like I-35 during peak hours (basically anytime after 3 PM on a weekday). Otherwise, you will need some extra patience and probably a solid playlist or two to get through your daily commute.

Where to live in Austin matters as far as traffic is concerned. Consider your daily routes before picking a place to live. If you can swing it, live near where you work or frequently hang out. 

Note:

The MetroRail and bus services are also options, though they have limited coverage. Biking is an excellent alternative if you are close to work and don’t mind sweating a bit in the Texas sun.

3. Embrace the Heat and Humidity — It’s Austin’s Natural State

Is Austin a good place to move to? 

Austin is a good place to be if you don’t mind the heat and humidity. The city’s climate might be Texas-standard hot, but something extra about its combination of heat, humidity, and unexpected cold snaps can throw newcomers for a loop. 

Austin’s summers are no joke, with temperatures often hitting 100°F. The humidity can turn any afternoon stroll into a personal sauna.

If you’re moving from a cooler climate, an air conditioner is not a luxury; it is a survival tool. Big hats and lots of sunscreen are also what you’ll need to avoid letting the heat give you an unneeded tan.

Locals know a few tricks or two to keep cool, like getting outdoors early in the day or hitting the trails near dusk. Splash pads, Barton Springs Pool, and other local watering holes are the cool spots.

Here’s the average seasonal temperature in Austin:

• Winter — 54°F
• Fall — 71°F
• Spring — 71°F
• Summer — 86°F

4. Plug into Austin’s Social Scene — It’s All About Spontaneity

Austin’s laid-back vibe is not just a stereotype; it’s a lifestyle!

Social plans can shift as quickly as the weather, and you will quickly notice that locals love the “go with the flow” mentality. 

So, it shouldn’t surprise you when brunch plans turn into an impromptu paddleboarding session on Lady Bird Lake. Or a casual happy hour could stretch into a live music crawl. 

Just keep an open mind and a flexible schedule after moving to Austin.

Although getting into the groove in this city takes a little effort, Austin is famous for its music festivals like Austin City Limits. But this is only a slice of the pie—the locals are big on community and outdoor events.

Look out for local farmers markets, street art, and live music performances popping up all over town. 

Note:

Joining a community group on social media or signing up for an art or cooking class are fun ways to meet people and get a feel for Austin’s everyday life. 

5. Be Ready to Talk Food, but Know that Tacos Reign Supreme

Unarguably, BBQ is huge in Texas. But have you heard about the tacos? 

They are legendary here! 

The taco culture holds a cherished place in the hearts of the local food scene in all of Texas, and Austin is no exception. Breakfast tacos are especially beloved; you will find them everywhere, from food trucks to high-end restaurants. 

People here debate on taco sports like it’s a sport. While taco talks make for good banter, you don’t want to touch the briskets. That is serious business here.

However, unlike some cities where food is centralized, Austin’s best eats are tucked into neighborhoods, food truck parks, and outposts. Places like Veracruz All Natural or El Primo might just change your breakfast game forever.

Note:

One thing about moving to Austin is that you can’t always rely on Google Maps to find your favorite food spots. Get out, explore, and chat with locals to discover gems you might otherwise miss. 

Final Thoughts — Austin’s Helo Guide for Newbies

Are you thinking of relocating to Austin from a fast-paced metropolis? Well then, Austin’s social pace might surprise you. 

This city thrives on “keep it weird” energy, and you’ll quickly notice the locals love spontaneity. But it’s not all about instant social circles here. Locals are friendly but not always eager to commit to plans weeks in advance. 

While at it, don’t let the water stop flowing. The heat can leave you dehydrated, especially considering how strenuous commuting can be. 

Everyone says Austin has traffic, but only a few realize just how much of a marathon rush hour can be. Unlike cities with straightforward highways or public transit options, Austin’s layout blends winding roads, narrow streets, and many one-way avenues that may have you questioning your GPS. 

So, prepare for these as you plan on moving to Austin.