What It's Really Like To Live In Austin
Austin has been described by many as the the best city in the U.S. and frequently tops lists related to job growth, outdoor activities, and innovation. It is one of the most desirable cities from afar, but what is it really like to live here?
I’ve detailed some Pros and Cons of living in the City of the Violet Crown.
Pros:
Outdoor Activities
One of the things I first noticed when I moved to Austin, was how active everyone was. We have a 10 mile trail on Lady Bird Lake, which is a great spot for a casual walk, people watching or getting out on your bike. Lady Bird Lake (which splits the city North and South) also offers paddle boarding and kayaking.
Austin also has many greenbelts and hiking trails both inside the city and on the outskirts. Zilker Park has views of downtown and hosts the infamous Austin City Limits festival each year. You will find people walking their dogs, playing volleyball, throwing frisbees or just enjoying a relaxing picnic.
Barton Springs is a natural pool that offers a peaceful respite to the hustle and bustle of the city. Where else can you swim laps in the middle of a city?
Restaurant Scene
If you are a foodie like me, you will appreciate all the culinary delights that Austin offers. From food trucks to fine dining, Austin has a little bit of everything. Because the restaurant scene is quite competitive, I find that the quality of food, service and unique concepts continues to improve.
Low Cost of Living
Compared to other similar metros, Austin is still quite affordable. The median sale price for a single family home is well above the national median, but we do experience higher than average year over year appreciation rates. Living in Texas also allows you to benefit from no personal or corporate income tax.
Large Sense of Community
Austinites are loud and proud, stand up for what they believe and rally when someone is in need. I really enjoy the sense of comradery and innovative spirit that Austin has. It is also a college town and enjoy the excitement that comes from game days! Plus, we have Mathew McConaughey.
So Many Activities
When you live in Austin, there is always something to do. Festivals, concerts, restaurant openings, new hotels, pool parties, you name it, we have it! If you are looking for a city that provides a plethora of options for all your interests, this is the city.
Job market
The job market in Austin continues to lead in job security, growth, opportunities, and low unemployment. In January, WalletHub ranked Austin as the fourth best U.S. city for job hunters in 2020.
Some other stats they uncovered:
· Unemployment rate, No. 1
· Disability-friendly employers, No. 6
· Employment growth, No. 6
· Employment outlook, No. 6
· Average starting salary, No. 12
· Worker engagement, No. 12
· Job security, No. 13
· Dating friendliness, No. 14
Cons:
While Austin is certainly one of the best places to live, but let’s be real, no place is perfect. A few areas where Austin doesn’t excel:
Traffic
The city of Austin has not kept up with its exponential growth and our infrastructure is maxed out. You will sit in traffic and there are very few times you can avoid it. Plan to leave early and be patient. That being said, it’s still not as bad as most cities. As our population is projected to double in the next 20 years, brace yourself for traffic to only get worse.
Walkability
The city is not walkable unless you live directly downtown, most people living here have a car. There is also not a great public transportation system, yet. Hopefully we see some improvement in the coming years.
Heat
While the weather is great year-round, the summers are HOT. Some of my fellow Austinites love the heat, but I find it a bit overwhelming. The good news is everywhere has air conditioning and the rest of the year, the weather is fantastic.
Thinking about moving to Austin? Let's connect!
kimhoward@compass.com | 512-914-2873