Austin, Texas, consistently tops lists of best places to live. It ranked #1 on U.S. News and World Report’s list two years in a row. No wonder people are flocking to Austin. For city lovers, there’s a vibrant night life, an active art scene, and tons to do. The economy is booming, and jobs are growing. For those who prefer a more quiet existence, the suburbs offer family-friendly living a stone’s throw from one of America’s best cities.
If you’re contemplating a move to Austin, here’s everything you need to know.
Finding a Job
The average annual salary in Austin is $50,830, higher than the national average. Job growth is also outpacing national averages, with a low rate of unemployment and plenty of booming industries.
That doesn’t mean you can move to Austin and hope to get a job the next day. It takes time to find the right fit, and Austin is a sprawling metropolis. So it’s important to choose not just the right job, but the right job location. The neighborhood you choose may depend on where you are employed.
Not sure where to begin your search? The hottest industries in Austin are:
- Food services
- Accommodations and hospitality
- Science and tech
- Social services
- Health care
What to Do
Austin is full of things to do, from taking in new music at a bar downtown to enjoying internationally renowned acts at one of the city’s many amphitheaters. No matter what you love, there’s a way to indulge your hobbies in this diverse and vibrant city. Our top picks include:
- Take in some live music at one of these top music venues.
- Enjoy some presidential history at the LBJ Presidential Libary.
- Brush up on Texas history at the Bulloch Texas State History Museum.
- Catch a wave at Nland Surf Park.
- Enjoy some Texas kitsch at Little Longhorn Saloon.
- Go bar-hopping on 6th Street.
- Score brunch at one of Austin’s top brunch eateries.
- Take the kids out for some fun on the town at these favorite spots.
- Enjoy some of Austin’s world-famous barbecue.
Schools and Family Life
Austin’s schools are some of the best in the country, with a wide range of public, private, and charter options. Austin is also home to some exceptional tech and art schools for students with unique interests, as well as schools designed for kids with special needs.
Don’t just rely on “best schools” lists. There’s no single best school for every child. Instead, spend some time reading up on schools, and tour them before you settle on your neighborhood. The right school for your child might be a diamond in the rough, and you’ll only find it if you’re willing to spend some time searching.
Austin offers more than just great schools. It’s also a booming hub for kid-friendly activities. Some great options include:
Finding Your New Home
Home prices in Austin are still relatively affordable, with many quality builders offering luxury homes. But prices are also increasing, so now is the time to buy and then watch your investment grow. For tips on preparing to purchase a home in Texas, check out this guide. As you scour locations, keep in mind that Austin is not a monolith. It’s a collection of dozens of diverse neighborhoods, each its own cultural microcosm. So learn as much as you can about each area, and then select the neighborhood that feels right for you.
MorningStar is located in Georgetown, one of America’s best and most rapidly growing suburbs. We’d love to welcome you to our community. To find the perfect home, click here.