Things You Need To Know Before Moving To Austin

Austin has seen a boom in population in the past 5 years, with specific upticks in young professionals moving to the city for life and career opportunities. But, before you decide that Austin is or isn’t for you, there’s a few things you need to know before moving to Austin. From infamously hot summers to tricky traffic situations, this guide will cover the essentials from the perspective of an Austin resident of 13 years. Learn insider knowledge about what neighborhood will be best for you, where locals go to beat the heat, and more.

What Life in Austin Is Really Like

Weather in Austin

Very hot summers (June–September) regularly hit 100°F. If you want to spend time outside, it’s best to wake up early and get out before the sun rises completely. Mornings are usually cooler and more comfortable for walking, exercising, or exploring.

Winters are mild with occasional freezes and snow. To protect your home and garden during winter, consider covering outdoor faucets with insulated covers, which are available at H-E-B and Home Depot. For plants, bring potted ones indoors, cover garden beds with tarps, or opt for native species that are naturally cold tolerant.

Austin is considered the allergy capital of the world. If you suffer from seasonal allergies, it’s a good idea to visit one of the many allergists in the city. Over-the-counter medications are widely available, and many locals get allergy shots to manage symptoms long term.

Traffic & Transportation

Rush hours are tough and tedious—avoid I-35 and MoPac during peak times such as 7:00 – 9:00 AM and 3:30 – 6:30 PM. If you work, the traffic is unavoidable. Stay calm, enjoy some music, and remember that traffic is temporary. Local news stations provide real-time traffic maps and updates, which can help you plan smarter routes before heading out.

CapMetro, Austin’s public bus system, offers useful bus, MetroRapid routes, and MetroRail with free rides for University of Texas students. They also provide route maps, planners, and real-time tracking tools online. To stay safe, follow general public transit guidelines: avoid poorly lit stops at night, keep your belongings secure, and be mindful of service alerts.

Flying In and Out

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is about 10 miles from downtown. We Austinites are grateful for our amazing airport and enjoy music and food in ABIA! There are nonstop flights to most major cities. Dining options in the airport include local favorites like Salt Lick BBQ and Amy’s Ice Creams. The airport also offers lounges for travelers looking to relax, and it’s a good idea to arrive early—especially during peak travel seasons—to allow time for security.

Where to Live in Austin (With Cost Breakdowns)

True Downtown Austin

Price Range: $2,400–$3,500/month (rent), ~$700K+ (buy)

Vibe: Walkable, trendy Good For: Young professionals, remote workers, groups of 1-5

Enjoy: Nightlife, food, city atmosphere, music. High rises are common.

Living in downtown Austin offers unbeatable access to the city’s best restaurants, bars, live music venues, and festivals. Whether you’re catching a concert at Mohawk, enjoying cocktails at Roosevelt Room, or grabbing tacos from Veracruz All Natural, everything is within walking distance. Lady Bird Lake is also just steps away, providing scenic trails and paddleboarding opportunities for nature lovers. While rent is on the higher side, the convenience and lifestyle are well worth it for many young professionals.

Zilker / South Lamar

Price Range: ~$2,000/month (rent), ~$900K (buy)

Vibe: Outdoor-friendly, laid-back

Good For: Nature lovers, couples, creatives. Lots of places to cool down over hot summers, walkable.

Zilker and South Lamar are known for their access to Austin’s best outdoor spaces, like Barton Springs Pool and Zilker Park. The neighborhood also boasts great spots like Alamo Drafthouse, Bouldin Creek Cafe, and Odd Duck for food and fun. It’s a laid-back area with tree-lined streets and walkable coffee shops, making it a favorite among couples and creatives who want a quieter vibe without leaving the city.

East Austin

Price Range: $1,800–$2,300/month (rent), ~$650K (buy)

Vibe: Artsy, diverse, culturally rich

Good For: Artists, entrepreneurs. Foodies love East Austin for its incredible restaurants, food trucks, and pop-ups.

East Austin has exploded in popularity thanks to its dynamic food scene, colorful murals, and creative energy. Grab a bite at Nixta Taqueria or enjoy drinks at Whisler’s or Lazarus Brewing. The area is home to street festivals, art shows, and small businesses that give it an authentic, community-driven feel. Despite gentrification, East Austin still holds strong cultural roots and continues to be a hub for innovation and expression.

North Loop / Brentwood / Triangle

Price Range: $1,600–$2,100/month (rent), ~$550K–$750K (buy)

Vibe: Residential, quieter, charming.

Good For: Grad students, all ages, first-time buyers. Family Friendly.

If you’re looking for a cozy neighborhood with a little bit of everything, North Loop, Brentwood, and The Triangle deliver. These areas offer bungalow-style homes, great coffee shops like Epoch, and hangouts like The Triangle’s restaurants and bars. It’s a great place to raise a family or study in peace, while still being just a short drive from UT and downtown. With easy bus access and a calm, residential vibe, these neighborhoods are perfect for a variety of homeowners.

What You’ll Love About Living Here

Austin offers a unique lifestyle full of character and charm. Live music is everywhere—from bars and coffee shops to even the airport—making it a haven for music lovers. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking the greenbelt, kayaking on Lady Bird Lake, or unwinding at Zilker Park. And when it comes to food, Austin delivers with a dynamic scene filled with BBQ, burgers, breakfast tacos, and countless food trucks to explore.

Check out Austin’s event calendar & follow us @texastasty for weekly weekend event updates!

SXSW (South by Southwest) | March

Tech, film, and music collide in this amazing festival. South by Southwest is one of Austin’s most iconic events, attracting visitors from around the world. It’s not uncommon to see major tech companies like Meta and Adobe hosting activations alongside indie musicians performing in our bars. If you’re a local, SXSW can be overwhelming—but also fun. Some Austinites rent out their homes and leave for the week, while others enjoy the free parties, and concerts that take over the city.

Austin City Limits (ACL) | October

A multi-weekend music festival in Zilker that is a favorite of Austinites and non-locals alike. Headliners have included Billie Eilish, Foo Fighters, Kendrick Lamar, and Tame Impala. ACL is a rite of passage for anyone living in Austin. The two-weekend event brings massive crowds to Zilker Park with multiple stages, food vendors, and a laid-back, very Austin vibe. Rain or shine, you’ll see folks dancing in the mud, lounging on blankets, and discovering their new favorite bands. Even if you don’t buy tickets, there’s a lot of free events around Austin those weeks too.

Formula 1 U.S. Grand Prix | November

Held at Circuit of the Americas ATX. Formula 1 weekend turns Austin into an international party. With concerts, pop-ups, and high-speed races at Circuit of the Americas, it draws fans from all over. Past performers have included Pink, Green Day, and Post Malone. While tickets can be expensive, it’s worth attending at least once.

Austin Marathon | February

Thousands run together through the city. The Austin Marathon is both a physical challenge and a city-wide celebration. Competitors run through historic neighborhoods and downtown streets with tons of support. Finishers are greeted with medals, snacks, and cold drinks. Whether you’re racing or cheering, it’s a feel-good event that shows off Austin’s community spirit.

Living in Austin comes with its fair share of quirks – hot weather, serious allergies, and frustrating traffic – but it also offers a vibrant lifestyle filled with music, culture, and great food. Whether you’re into kayaking, live shows, or just want to try the best tacos in the state, Austin has something for you. The city’s personality is strong and welcoming, making it a great place to call home for people from all walks of life. These are just some of the things you need to know before moving to Austin. Now that you know what to expect, you’ll be better prepared to decide whether Austin is the right fit for your next move.