Austin is an exciting city with amazing cultural diversity and a great arts and live music scene. Its unofficial motto is “Keep Austin Weird”. Expats relocating to Austin will be greeted by a healthy economy, a great dining scene, and lots of options in terms of leisure time. Even though it has grown in popularity over the past several years, Austin's housing and cost of living remain low compared to other big US cities – for instance, it costs about 30% less to live in Austin than in New York. Before relocating to Austin, expats should know that a car is necessary as public transportation isn't convenient for daily commutes.
For general advice regarding searching for a home and signing a lease in the United States, see the article
Neighborhoods in Austin
In central Austin, Tarrytown boasts stunning lake views, easy downtown access, and luxurious homes, making it a sought-after neighborhood. For a more traditional feel and affordable single-family housing with proximity to downtown, Clarksville is a popular choice, especially among young families.
In North Austin, you'll find Hyde Park, characterized by quiet, tree-lined streets and unique bungalows and Victorian-style homes. This area is convenient for University of Texas faculty, graduates, and young professionals. Great Hills offers affordable modern homes and easy access to the tech corridor and the upscale Arboretum shopping center.
Moving to Southwest Austin, Circle C is a housing community with urban amenities like restaurants and sports facilities but without congestion. It appeals to both retirees and families. In the south, Westlake Hills shines with its location in the top-notch Eanes School District, offering stunning views, access to hiking and biking trails, and a short distance from downtown Austin.
Accommodation and cost of living in Austin
Just like in many big cities, apartments tend to get smaller and prices higher as you move closer to the central hub of the city. In this regard, Austin is no different from anywhere else. In Austin's downtown, many people live in apartments or townhomes, although single-family homes are also common options.
Your monthly rent will depend on the neighborhood, with wide-ranging prices based on the area's desirability. For a one-bedroom, you should expect to pay anywhere between $700 and more than $2,000 per month. Two-bedroom apartments can range from $1,200 to $4,000 per month. The price to rent a home with three or more bedrooms can range from $1,400 to more than $8,000 per month. Do your research, use word of mouth, and with a bit of elbow grease, you can usually find something in your budget.
Generally, an apartment lease in Austin will include charges such as water, gas, trash services, and building maintenance. If you choose to lease a house in Austin, it is at the owner's discretion if these services are included or not. Due to the hot summer climate, the majority of accommodations in this region will have air conditioning and also include major appliances like a refrigerator and stove or oven. Many people in Austin drive, and thus, most apartments and houses will include at least one parking space. That being said, be sure to read carefully what is and is not included in your monthly rent before signing your lease.
Life in Austin
As the cultural capital of the state, Austin offers a huge range of experiences for every expat. Being the seat of the state government, the city boasts plenty of historical monuments and museums, providing a rich glimpse into its past. For music lovers, Austin is a dream come true, being one of the country's music capitals with countless live shows and two orchestras to enjoy. Notably, it hosts the renowned South by Southwest (SXSW) music, conference, and arts festival, drawing music enthusiasts from far and wide.
Outdoor enthusiasts will relish the bevy of activities available, as Austin ranks among the most bikeable cities in the country, boasting well-maintained bike paths and urban trails. Numerous swimming areas around Austin are accessible, as well as some within the city limits, like the iconic Barton Pond. An unusual yet fascinating attraction is Austin's distinction of having the largest urban bat colony in North America, which lures tourists to witness their mesmerizing evening flights during the summer.
Austin's climate is characterized by long and hot summers, with temperatures ranging between 34 to 36°C in July and August. Winters are generally mild, with occasional freezing temperatures on a few days. Unlike Dallas or Houston, Austin experiences less extreme seasonal weather and offers a comfortable environment year-round.
Useful links:
Craigslist - Austin housing ads
Austin cost of living calculator
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