Austin has become a hotspot for people looking to relocate, especially from large west coast cities. Known for its unique character, this city draws people from all walks of life. Whether you’re into tech, music, comedy, or food, Austin has something for everyone.
As with any city, there are pros and cons to consider before making the move. Understanding what living in Austin is really like through some prominent pros and cons can help you decide if it’s the right fit for you.
Austin at a Glance
Walk Score: 42 | Bike Score: 54 | Transit Score: 35
Median Sale Price: $546,000 | Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,429
Austin neighborhoods | Houses for rent in Austin | Apartments for rent in Austin | Homes for sale in Austin
1. Pro: Growing job market
Austin’s job market is booming, particularly in the tech industry. Companies like Tesla, Apple, and Google have established large offices in the city, creating tons of job opportunities. Beyond that, Austin is known for its start-up culture, with tons of opportunities for entrepreneurs and tech professionals. The diversity of industries also means that jobseekers in other fields have an opportunity to find their place in Austin.
2. Con: Increasing cost of living
While Austin’s job market is attractive, the cost of living has been steadily rising. Housing prices in Austin have increased significantly over the past decade, and rent is not far behind. The median price for a single family home in Austin sits at about $546K, well above the national average of $438,837. Those moving from more affordable areas might find the cost of living in Austin surprisingly high, particularly in popular neighborhoods like South Congress or Downtown Austin.
3. Pro: Live music and comedy
Austin is referred to as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” and with good reason. The city has an impressive number of live music venues, like Broken Spoke and Vulcan Gas Company. Austin also hosts the South by Southwest (SXSW) and Austin City Limits (ACL) festivals. The local music scene is second to none and offers something for everyone. There’s also a fast-growing comedy scene thanks to the arrival of the Comedy Mothership.
4. Con: Traffic congestion
As Austin grows, so does its traffic problem. The city’s infrastructure struggles to keep up with its rapid growth, leading to frequent traffic jams, especially during rush hours. Interstate 35 and Mopac Expressway are notorious for their congestion, making commutes longer and more stressful. Public transportation options are improving, but still limited compared to other major cities.
5. Pro: Easy access to the great outdoors
Austin is a great place for outdoorsy folks to settle down. The city is surrounded by natural beauty, with options like the Barton Creek Greenbelt, Lady Bird Lake, and Zilker Park offering spaces for hiking, kayaking, and soaking up the Texas sun. With its mild winters and sunny weather, Austin provides a great environment for adventurers.
6. Con: Hot summers
While Austin’s weather is generally pleasant, in classic Texas fashion, the summers can be brutally hot. Temperatures often reach triple digits, making outdoor activities less appealing and sometimes downright dangerous. The intense heat also drives up electricity bills as residents rely heavily on air conditioning to stay cool.
9. Pro: World-class food
Austin’s food scene is a major highlight, especially for BBQ and Tex-Mex lovers. The city is full of new and established restaurants, from food trucks to high-end dining experiences, each delivering on flavor. Legendary restaurants like Franklin Barbecue and Veracruz All Natural attract locals and tourists, ensuring you’ll never run out of new places to try.
10. Con: Limited public transportation
With a transit score of 35, public transportation in Austin is still developing. While the city does have a bus system, it’s not as extensive or reliable as those in other major cities. This makes owning a car almost a necessity, which can be a drawback for those used to more robust public transit systems.
11. Pro: Education and research opportunities
Austin is home to the University of Texas at Austin, one of the top public universities in the country. This brings a youthful energy to the city and offers educational and research opportunities. The university also contributes to Austin’s arts scene, with museums, theaters, and galleries open to the public, solidifying the city’s status as one of the best Texas college towns.
12. Con: Allergies and air quality
Austin is known for its allergy season, which can be particularly tough for newcomers. Cedar fever, caused by the pollen from Ashe juniper trees, is notorious in the area. Additionally, Austin’s air quality can fluctuate pretty drastically, particularly in the summer, when higher temperatures can lead to increased ozone levels, affecting those with respiratory issues.
13. Pro: Stellar sports scene
Austin is a great city for sports fans and active people. Whether cheering on the Texas Longhorns, attending an Austin FC soccer match, or participating in local leagues, sporty people have plenty of options. The city also supports a range of activities, from cycling to paddle boarding, catering to all interests.
14. Con: Limited high-rise options
For those who prefer high-rise living, options in Austin are relatively limited compared to cities like New York or Chicago. While this is slowly changing, a large portion of the city’s residential options are single-family homes or low-rise apartments. This may not appeal to those used to urban living with access to high-rise amenities like concierge services and rooftop pools.
