Austin is the capital of Texas and one of the fastest-growing large cities in the country. The 2020 census counted 961,855 residents, and a 2025 estimate puts the city above one million. The metro area has about 2.55 million people. People move here for jobs, music, food, and the outdoors. A move this big deserves a plan. This guide covers what to know about housing, work, traffic, weather, and daily life before you pack the truck.
Growth Is Part of Daily Life
Austin has been one of the fastest-growing large cities since 2010. Cranes and new towers fill the skyline, and neighborhoods change fast. Some longtime residents miss what they call Old Austin, a smaller and more bohemian era. New arrivals bring energy and also raise prices. Expect construction, new restaurants, and a busy calendar. Read More about how Austin has changed over time.
Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest part of any budget. The 2019 median value of an owner-occupied home was $318,400, and prices have climbed since then. About 59 percent of occupied homes are rentals, and about 41 percent are owner-occupied. The median household income was $83,830 in 2024. Compare rent and mortgage costs before you choose a neighborhood. Check current listings, because numbers move quickly.
Zoning Changes
In late 2023, the city loosened its rules to allow triplexes on lots zoned for single-family homes. It also loosened limits on tiny homes and ended parking mandates for new buildings. These changes aim to add more housing. If you plan to buy, ask your agent how zoning could affect your block.
Jobs and Industry
Austin is a major center for technology, government, and education. Top employers include the State of Texas, the University of Texas at Austin, H-E-B, the City of Austin, Dell, Tesla, and Amazon. Apple, Oracle, Intel, and many other tech firms have large offices here. The city earned the nickname Silicon Hills in the 1990s. Many people also work in health care, music, film, and small business.
Traffic and Getting Around
Austin is the largest U.S. city served by only one Interstate, Interstate 35. Other major roads include Mopac, U.S. 183, State Highway 71, and Loop 360. Rush hour backs up quickly, so test your commute at peak times before you sign a lease. CapMetro runs buses and a 32-mile commuter rail line. Voters approved a $10 billion transit plan in 2020, and projects continue. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport sits about five miles southeast of downtown. Rideshare services operate in the city, and bike and scooter rentals are common.
Weather
Austin has long, very hot summers. Highs reach 90 degrees on about 123 days a year, and 100 degrees on about 29 days. Winters are mild, though cold snaps happen. The city gets an ice storm about every two years. Winter Storm Uri in February 2021 dropped 6.4 inches of snow and led to long power and water problems. A 2023 freeze also left many homes without power. Plan ahead with water, blankets, and a backup charger.
Storms and Floods
Spring brings strong thunderstorms. The thin limestone soil in the western hills sheds water fast, so flash floods can happen. Check whether a home sits near a creek, and ask about flood risk before you buy.
Trees on Your Lot
Live oaks, cedar elms, and pecans fill many yards. Large trees add shade and value, but they can also cause problems in storms. Have a certified arborist check any large tree near your house. Austin also protects many large trees, so ask about permits before you remove one.
Neighborhood Choices
Downtown offers high-rise living near bars and music. South Congress has shops and food trucks. East Austin has a growing mix of homes, studios, and restaurants. West of the city, rolling Hill Country views and lake access draw buyers. North Austin includes the tech hub around The Domain. Visit at different times of day, and ask neighbors about noise and traffic.
Food, Music, and Culture
Austin is known for barbecue, Tex-Mex, breakfast tacos, and food trucks. Live music plays nearly every night. Festivals like South by Southwest and the Austin City Limits Music Festival fill the calendar. Zilker Park, Barton Springs Pool, and the Lady Bird Lake trail give you free ways to stay active.
A Moving Checklist
- Visit at least once in summer to feel the heat.
- Set a budget that includes rent or mortgage, utilities, and a car.
- Test your commute at rush hour.
- Ask about flood and storm risk.
- Check school zones if you have children.
- Update your driver’s license and vehicle registration within the state deadlines.
- Join a neighborhood group to meet people.
New to town? Get to know the city fast with these fun facts about Austin, TX, from the Capitol to the breakfast taco.
Final Thoughts
Austin offers a lot, and it keeps growing. Plan for the cost, the heat, and the traffic, and you can enjoy the music, the food, and the outdoors. Visit first, ask questions, and take your time.
