Texas has long been leading the nation as the fastest-growing state. Five of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S. are within the state.
With people from across the country, making a move to the Lonestar state, Austin has risen as one of the most popular cities of choice. With a hot culture scene, a housing boom, and tons of job opportunities, there are plenty of reasons to make a move to the fourth largest city in the state. Keep reading to learn what you need to know if you want to move to Austin.
Prepare For The Heat
Many people are under the assumption that Texas is hot all year long. That isn’t necessarily true. In fact, for much of the year, Austin is mild with warm temperatures, and no cold, snowy winter to deal with. But come July, that famous Texas heat comes out. From late June to the end of August, you’ll be dealing with daily triple-digit highs, as well as the sweltering sun.
Luckily, Austin offers plenty of opportunities to cool off. There’s a natural spring right in the middle of the downtown area, Barton Springs that stays a comfortable 68 degrees all year long.
Housing Costs More Than Elsewhere in Texas
Besides the heat, Texas also has a reputation for affordable housing. What might buy you a small apartment in downtown L.A. or New York could net you a mansion in rural Texas. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for Austin, the most expensive city in the state.
However, if you’re looking for a hip modern city with all of the culture, shopping and dining opportunities, and chic housing options that cities like San Francisco or Seattle have to offer, Austin is an affordable alternative.
Buying Becomes More Affordable
If you’re able to pay the average Austin rent, which is around $1,300 a month, you’re in luck; you can likely also afford to buy a home. That’s because Austin’s housing market means that many apartments and condos are in high demand, which has driven that price upward. At the same time, there’s a strong buyer’s market; the average home in the Greater Austin area is $305,000, which nets a mortgage payment that’s less than $1,300 a month. That means that you’re likely to get more bang for your buck when you buy rather than rent.
When you’re moving to Texas, you may opt to rent before you buy, even if it means spending a bit more over time. While you’re renting, keep in mind that you don’t have to find a space that fits all your stuff right away. You can store your belongings at a storage facility. Look for self storage options that meet your needs, like climate control, if you have documents, electronics, antiques, or artwork to store.
Things May Get A Little Weird
This Texas city has been marketing the slogan of “Keep Austin Weird” for many years now. And it has only become more accurate over time. From trendy taco stands to modern art installments to freaky fun festivals, you’ll find no shortage of the weird and wonderful in this young and hip city.
Making A Move To Austin
There’s no shortage of reasons why a move to Austin might be right for you. And if you’re ready to deal with a bit of heat, some higher than average housing costs and maybe a bit of weirdness as well, you might find your dream home in this wacky, beautiful city.
