Overview
Austin is Texas's capital and fastest-growing major city, known for live music, tech jobs, and keeping it weird. With no state income tax, warm weather, and a unique culture blending Southern hospitality with progressive values, Austin attracts young professionals and creatives nationwide.
Why People Move to Austin
- No state income tax
- Booming tech job market
- Live music capital of the world
- Warm weather year-round
- Young, progressive culture
Average Moving Costs to Austin
| From | Studio/1BR | 2BR |
|---|---|---|
| Houston (165 mi) | $800-$1,500 | $1,500-$2,500 |
| Dallas (195 mi) | $900-$1,600 | $1,600-$2,800 |
| Denver (935 mi) | $2,800-$4,500 | $4,500-$7,200 |
| Los Angeles (1,380 mi) | $3,400-$5,400 | $5,400-$8,800 |
* Estimates for professional full-service moves. DIY moves with rental trucks typically cost 40-60% less.
Best Neighborhoods for Newcomers
East Austin
Avg Rent: $1,600-$2,500 (1BR)
Hip, diverse, breweries and tacos, rapidly gentrifying.
South Congress
Avg Rent: $1,800-$2,800 (1BR)
Eclectic shops, restaurants, iconic Austin vibe.
Mueller
Avg Rent: $1,700-$2,600 (1BR)
Planned community, family-friendly, near airport.
Domain
Avg Rent: $1,800-$2,700 (1BR)
North Austin tech hub, upscale shopping, modern.
Cost of Living in Austin
- Rent (1BR)$1,500-$2,200/month average
- GroceriesAbout 2% below national average
- Dining out$12-$20 casual, $40-$80 upscale
- State income taxNone (0%)
Utilities & Services
Electric
Austin Energy
$100-$200/month (summer AC intensive)
Internet
Spectrum, AT&T, Google Fiber
$50-$80/month
Water
Austin Water
$30-$60/month
Gas
Texas Gas Service
$20-$50/month
Job Market in Austin
- Tech: Tesla, Apple, Google, Meta, Oracle expanding
- Dell and other tech HQs
- State government (capital city)
- University of Texas
- Music and entertainment industry
Transportation in Austin
Public Transit
CapMetro buses and rail. Limited coverage. Car strongly recommended.
Car
Essential for most residents. Traffic has worsened significantly.
Biking
Growing bike culture but challenging in summer heat.
Moving Tips for Austin
Best Time to Move
March-May or September-November. Avoid brutal summer heat (100°F+).
Things to Know Before Moving
- AC is non-negotiable - confirm it works before signing lease
- Traffic has gotten much worse with growth
- SXSW and ACL periods are extremely busy and expensive
- Google Fiber and good internet options available
Pros and Cons of Living in Austin
Pros
- +No state income tax
- +Tech jobs
- +Live music scene
- +Young culture
- +Food scene
Cons
- -Getting expensive
- -Brutal summer heat
- -Traffic worsening
- -Rapid growth changing character
- -Limited public transit