Austin is an up-and-coming hot spot for people looking for that “change in latitude, change in attitude” mentality! With plenty of job opportunities from all the new company headquarters moving in, a treasure trove of entertainment, and an incredible food scene, it’s not hard to see why. Read on to find out the inside scoop on what living in Austin is really like from an Austin local!
Related: What Is the Cost of Living in Austin, TX?
What Makes Living in Austin the Best?
Friendly Locals
One of the first things you’ll realize about Austin is how friendly the residents are. Everyone is happy to lend a helping hand or word of advice to new locals. We’re also happy to give recommendations for the best food around (see all our favorite spots here!). You’ll feel welcome in no time!
“Keep Austin Weird”
Keeping true to its motto, Austin is one of the most unique cities in the US. Its innate creativity is almost palpable, with colorful murals filling the walls of the city and exciting artsy events taking place throughout the year. You can’t find a reason to be bored while living in Austin!
Impressive Companies Call Austin Home
Austin has become a hub for several well-known companies such as Yeti, Indeed, VRBO, and Kendra Scott. With powerhouse companies like these, where even Tesla is expanding its Austin branch, the city provides exciting job opportunities in a myriad of industries!
The Weather
It’s no surprise that Leon Bridges wrote a song about the “Texas Sun.” You’ll find beautiful sunny weather in Austin for the majority of the year. With so many clear 75-degree days, you’ll want to spend a lot of time outside. Trust us, there are plenty of activities to do in the great outdoors like hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, and more!
So Why Doesn’t Everyone Live Here?
The Weather
Though the majority of the year is comfortable, being closer to the equator than any other state can make the summer months gruesome. We like to beat the heat by taking a dip in an apartment pool or a swim in one of the many bodies of water around the city. After a quick refresher, you’ll be ready to soak up the sun again in no time (repeat the process as needed, and don’t forget sunscreen!).
The Traffic
Just like any growing city, you’ll run into traffic during peak times of the day. There are the typical rush hours, but with a little patience, a good playlist, and the gorgeous scenery of the city and surrounding hills, you’ll realize the few extra minutes of traffic wasn’t so bad after all!
Things Locals Know That You Might Not
How We Beat the Heat
As we mentioned, you’re going to need to find a way to cool down on summer days. Our favorite way to do that is by hanging out on the water, and Austin has plenty of watering holes to choose from! Grab a group of friends and rent a boat. Swing by one of the many paddleboard and kayak rentals on trails along the water and spend a day on the river. When the sun gets too hot, you can jump right in and take a nice cool swim.
Visit a Local Park (Other Than Zilker)
One of the best ways to spend a sunny day is at a local park. Zilker Park is the most popular spot for sports, picnicking, and sunbathing. Although we do love Zilker, there are plenty of other local parks we love to go to! One of our favorites is Butler Metro Park; it’s a less crowded park that offers a fantastic view of downtown Austin.
Where to Go on a Night Out
We know how appealing spending a night out on the infamous 6th Street can be. Although we love 6th Street as much as anyone, we’re here to tell you there are other more local spots to have a great time! For an upbeat experience with plenty of outdoor space, check out Rainey Street, where many of the bars are converted historic buildings. Head north a bit to the Domain for the delightfully bougie night on the town, or venture south of the city and spend a mellow night at one of the many beer gardens.
Must-Haves
How to be Trendy in Austin
The biggest trend in Austin? Anything goes! Step out of your comfort zone and explore your creative side when it comes to fashion. Don’t know where to start? Check out one of the many vintage and thrift shops throughout the city and pick out anything that speaks to you! Try something new, reinvent yourself- it’s all welcome in Austin.
Have a Positive Attitude
To live in Austin, it’s important to have a positive and accepting attitude. You’ll meet people from all over the globe and be introduced to new activities. Welcome new connections and experiences with open arms‒ you won’t regret it.
Favor – Our Favorite Delivery App
Use Favor to get food and essentials delivered right to your door usually in under an hour. With daily deals, contact-less delivery, and a small delivery fee, locals use this as our go-to for delivery.
The Housing Scene
Newer Construction
Austin hasn’t always been the bustling and expanding city it is today. Prior to the 1960s, Austin was a fairly small town, so a lot of the housing we see today is relatively new with new buildings going up frequently. You’ll find luxurious, spacious apartments with plenty of natural light, including many with views of the city or surrounding Hill Country.
Residential Neighborhoods
Austin doesn’t have the typical feel of a big city. There’s our impressive downtown area, but take a short drive around and you’ll find many quaint residential neighborhoods. Sunset Valley, Cedar Park, and Bee Cave are just a few that offer beautiful homes and apartment options.
Apartment Demands
The city is growing and actively keeping up with demand. There is some competition for apartments as Austin grows, but the housing and rental market is rapidly expanding so that new residents don’t have trouble finding the perfect place to live, especially with AptAmigo’s help. Check out our top picks among the city’s best luxury apartments.
Find your Dream Austin Apartment
Now that you know the inside scoop about Austin, ready to call it home? Reach out to AptAmigo for a stress-free apartment hunting experience. (Read more about how it works here.) Just tell us your criteria and let AptAmigo do all the hard work for you. Sit back, relax, and enjoy your move to Austin!
