Texas Austin
Moving to Austin, Texas
Austin, Texas offers young professionals a vibrant urban lifestyle full of creativity, innovation, and outdoor fun. Known as the “Silicon Hills,” Austin blends booming tech careers with a relaxed vibe, live music, and a strong sense of community.
Housing options range from modern downtown condos in the Domain and East Austin to charming bungalows in Hyde Park and South Congress. Many neighborhoods are walkable, with easy access to coffee shops, parks, and restaurants.
Outdoor lovers enjoy kayaking on Lady Bird Lake, hiking the Greenbelt trails, and relaxing in parks like Zilker. Austin’s lively cultural scene features live music on Sixth Street, art galleries, farmers markets, and diverse food trucks serving Tex-Mex, barbecue, and more.
With major employers like Dell and Apple, a growing startup scene, and a welcoming atmosphere, Austin is a top choice for young professionals looking to balance career growth with a fun, active lifestyle.
Austin by the numbers
City population
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Local Experiences
Local Experiences
Austin is a lively city where vibrant culture meets Southern charm and a thriving creative spirit. Known for its live music, eclectic neighborhoods, and outdoor lifestyle, Austin offers residents and visitors a unique blend of experiences that celebrate both its rich heritage and innovative energy. Whether you’re savoring barbecue at a local joint, exploring urban parks, or catching a show on Sixth Street, Austin invites you to dive into its spirited Texas vibe.
Creative Culture & Local Flavor
Austin’s culture pulses with music, food, and art. The city’s legendary live music scene spans everything from blues and country to indie and electronic, with iconic venues like the Continental Club and Antone’s hosting local and national acts. Food lovers flock to Austin for its famous BBQ, food truck parks, and farm-to-table eateries spread throughout neighborhoods like South Congress and East Austin.
Local artists and makers thrive in Austin’s creative hubs, including galleries and studios in the Design District and the Warehouse District. Community spaces and markets celebrate handmade crafts, local design, and the city’s welcoming, eclectic spirit.
Arts & Entertainment
Austin’s arts scene is dynamic and diverse. The city is home to renowned institutions like the Blanton Museum of Art and the Contemporary Austin, as well as a flourishing independent theater and film community. Festivals such as South by Southwest (SXSW) and Austin Film Festival bring world-class entertainment, innovation, and creative collaboration to the city each year.
Music remains central to Austin’s identity, earning it the nickname “Live Music Capital of the World.” From intimate venues to large outdoor stages like the Moody Theater, live performances are a year-round staple, connecting the city’s vibrant communities through sound.
Community Events & Festivals
Austin’s calendar is packed with events that reflect its lively spirit and community pride. Seasonal farmers markets, outdoor yoga in Zilker Park, and neighborhood street fairs create regular opportunities for locals to connect and enjoy the city’s natural beauty.
Annual celebrations like the Austin City Limits Music Festival, Pecan Street Festival, and Texas Book Festival highlight Austin’s commitment to culture, creativity, and community. Whether you’re new to Austin or a longtime local, the city offers countless ways to engage with its ever-evolving culture and welcoming vibe.
Sports and Recreation
Sport and Recreation
Austin is a city where an active lifestyle and outdoor adventure are part of everyday living. From devoted sports fans cheering on local teams to outdoor enthusiasts exploring miles of trails, Austin offers a wide range of recreational opportunities for all ages and interests.
Sports & Community
Austin is home to several popular sports teams and collegiate athletics that energize the city year-round. The University of Texas Longhorns, with their storied football, basketball, and baseball programs, are a major draw, bringing passionate crowds to the Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium and other venues.
Beyond college sports, Austin supports a growing professional and semi-pro scene including Austin FC (MLS), the Austin Spurs (NBA G League), and the Austin Gilgronis (Major League Rugby). Community leagues provide ample opportunities for youth and adults to play soccer, softball, basketball, volleyball, and increasingly popular sports like pickleball and ultimate frisbee. Local parks and recreation centers offer affordable programs and leagues fostering friendly competition and fitness for all skill levels.
Parks, Trails & Outdoor Activities
Austin’s natural beauty invites outdoor recreation year-round:
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Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail is a favorite for jogging, biking, paddleboarding, and kayaking right in the heart of downtown.
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Zilker Metropolitan Park offers sprawling green spaces for picnics, sports fields, and events like the Austin City Limits Music Festival.
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Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed pool in Zilker Park, is a popular swimming spot for residents and visitors.
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For hiking and biking, the nearby Greenbelt provides miles of scenic trails, while Mount Bonnell offers panoramic views of the city and Colorado River.
Golf courses, tennis courts, rock climbing spots like the Austin Bouldering Project, and plenty of waterways round out Austin’s diverse outdoor options.
Whether cheering on the Longhorns, joining a weekend soccer league, or enjoying a kayak trip on Lady Bird Lake, Austin makes staying active and connected to nature an essential part of local life.
Adventures
Adventures
Austin, Texas offers an exciting mix of vibrant city life, stunning natural landscapes, and rich Texas culture—making it a top spot for everyday adventures and weekend escapes. Whether you’re hiking along scenic trails, paddling on the Colorado River, or exploring lively neighborhoods, Austin invites you to get outside and experience something new.
Nature & Outdoor Exploration
Outdoor lovers thrive in Austin’s diverse natural playground. The Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail loops around the heart of the city, perfect for running, biking, or kayaking with skyline views. For a refreshing swim, Barton Springs Pool is a favorite natural spring-fed oasis.
Nearby, the Greenbelt offers miles of rugged hiking and mountain biking trails through limestone cliffs and shady woods. Climb to Mount Bonnell for panoramic views of the city and the Colorado River. Outdoor enthusiasts can also explore kayaking and paddleboarding on Lake Travis or take a day trip to nearby Enchanted Rock State Natural Area for hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing.
Culture, History & Day Trips
Austin’s unique blend of music, history, and culture adds depth to your adventures. Wander through the historic 6th Street entertainment district or discover local art in the East Austin neighborhood. The Texas State Capitol and Bullock Texas State History Museum offer insight into the city’s rich heritage.
For day trips, explore the charming small towns of Fredericksburg with its wineries and German roots, or visit the stunning waterfalls and swimming holes in Hamilton Pool Preserve. The nearby Hill Country invites wine tasting, scenic drives, and outdoor festivals year-round.
Whether you crave city excitement or a peaceful nature escape, Austin’s adventures are always within reach.
Seasonal Events
Seasonal Events
Austin embraces every season with a lively lineup of events that highlight its vibrant culture, music heritage, and outdoor lifestyle. From festive winter gatherings to bustling summer festivals and colorful fall celebrations, Austin offers something exciting throughout the year.
Winter to Spring
Winter in Austin brings festive holiday markets and light displays, like the famous Trail of Lights in Zilker Park, where families enjoy millions of sparkling lights, live music, and food vendors. The Austin Nutcracker ballet and holiday craft fairs add to the seasonal cheer.
As spring arrives, the city bursts into bloom with events like South by Southwest (SXSW), a world-renowned festival showcasing music, film, and interactive media. The Zilker Garden Festival celebrates local horticulture, while outdoor yoga, farmers markets, and Eeyore’s Birthday Party, a quirky community picnic and music event, welcome the warmer weather.
Summer to Fall
Summer in Austin is all about music and food festivals. The iconic Austin City Limits (ACL) Music Festival draws crowds to Zilker Park for a weekend of top-tier live performances and local eats. Food lovers flock to the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest and countless food truck gatherings across the city.
As fall approaches, Austin hosts lively events like the Texas Book Festival and Pecan Street Festival, a huge arts and crafts fair in the historic Sixth Street district. Halloween brings fun with neighborhood block parties, haunted houses, and the spirited Zombie Walk downtown. The mild fall weather is perfect for outdoor events, including vineyard tours in the nearby Texas Hill Country.
Austin’s seasonal events calendar offers endless chances to connect with the city’s dynamic culture, creative spirit, and welcoming community—no matter when you visit.
Community Resources
Austin offers residents access to a strong, innovative healthcare system with top-rated hospitals, urgent care centers, mental health resources, and community wellness programs. Whether you're seeking routine care or specialized treatment, Austin’s medical network supports the health and well-being of its diverse and growing population.
Major Hospitals
St. David’s Medical Center
Located near downtown, St. David’s is one of Austin’s premier hospitals, offering high-quality care in cardiology, stroke treatment, orthopedics, women’s health, and surgical services. It includes a Level II trauma center and a nationally recognized heart and vascular program.
Ascension Seton Medical Center
Part of the Ascension healthcare network, this full-service hospital provides advanced care in maternity, neurology, cancer treatment, and organ transplantation. Its affiliation with Dell Medical School at The University of Texas brings cutting-edge research and academic medicine to the Austin area.
Mental Health & Community Wellness
Austin supports mental health through a range of public and private providers. Organizations like Integral Care, The SIMS Foundation, and Austin Travis County Integral Care offer services such as outpatient therapy, psychiatric care, substance use treatment, crisis intervention, and mobile response teams. Many local nonprofits and support groups host wellness workshops, mindfulness classes, and peer-based programs focused on emotional well-being.
Urgent Care & Preventive Services
Residents have convenient access to urgent care at locations like MedSpring, NextCare, Austin Regional Clinic (ARC) Urgent Care, and CareNow, which provide walk-in treatment for minor injuries, illnesses, vaccinations, and more. Many clinics also offer telehealth options and extended hours.
The City of Austin Public Health Department promotes preventive care through vaccination drives, nutrition education, smoking cessation programs, and chronic disease screenings. Outdoor fitness classes, health-focused events, and easy access to walking trails and parks also encourage active, healthy lifestyles across the city.
Austin is a dynamic city that prioritizes education, innovation, and lifelong learning. With strong public schools, renowned universities, and a vibrant network of libraries and enrichment programs, Austin provides learners of all ages with the tools and opportunities to grow, explore, and succeed.
Public Schools
Austin Independent School District (AISD) serves a diverse student population with a commitment to academic achievement, equity, and college and career readiness. The district features:
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Anderson High School – Known for its International Baccalaureate (IB) program and academic rigor.
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Austin High School – One of the oldest public high schools in Texas, offering AP courses, arts, and athletics.
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LASA (Liberal Arts and Science Academy) – A nationally recognized magnet school with a focus on STEM, research, and liberal arts.
AISD also supports specialized programs including dual-language immersion, Career and Technical Education (CTE), fine arts academies, and early college high schools.
Higher Education & Lifelong Learning
Austin is home to several major institutions that draw students from across the country and support the city’s creative and tech-forward culture:
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The University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) – One of the top public research universities in the nation, UT Austin offers more than 170 fields of study and is known for its programs in business, engineering, law, and the arts.
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Austin Community College (ACC) – With multiple campuses citywide, ACC offers associate degrees, transfer programs, workforce certifications, adult education, and continuing education courses.
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Huston-Tillotson University – A historically Black university with strong liberal arts and STEM programs located in East Austin.
Lifelong learners benefit from the Austin Public Library system, which hosts events, literacy initiatives, job skills workshops, and technology classes. From preschool enrichment to senior education, Austin fosters a culture of continuous learning and community engagement.
Austin provides residents with dependable public services and infrastructure that support a safe, connected, and high-quality lifestyle. From transportation and emergency response to waste management and civic engagement, Austin’s municipal systems are designed to serve a fast-growing, dynamic community.
Government & Safety
The City of Austin oversees essential services including public safety, development, utilities, and community programs—all with a strong focus on sustainability, transparency, and innovation.
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The Austin Police Department (APD) provides law enforcement and community policing, with efforts centered on public trust, equity, and safety across the city’s neighborhoods.
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The Austin Fire Department (AFD) delivers fire protection, emergency medical response, and disaster readiness, along with public education and fire prevention services.
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Austin-Travis County EMS (ATCEMS) offers emergency medical services and life-saving care with quick response times across the metro area.
The city also manages utilities through Austin Energy, Austin Water, and Resource Recovery, which handles trash, recycling, and compost services.
Transportation
Austin’s transportation network supports both commuters and visitors with a mix of roadways, public transit, and emerging mobility options:
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Major highways include I-35, US-183, MoPac Expressway (Loop 1), and SH-130, which help move traffic across the region.
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CapMetro operates bus routes, commuter rail (MetroRail), on-demand pickup services, and park-and-ride locations to serve daily commuters and downtown travelers.
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Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) provides access to national and international flights and continues to expand as the city grows.
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Residents also enjoy access to bike lanes, trails, e-scooters, and walking paths throughout the city, supporting multimodal and eco-conscious commuting.
Vehicle Registration and Licensing
Vehicle-related services in Austin are handled by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) and Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), with locations throughout Travis County. Key services include:
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Driver’s licenses, REAL ID, and identification cards
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Vehicle registration and renewals
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Title transfers, inspections, and emissions testing (where applicable)
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Handicap permits and learner’s permits
Online portals offer convenient access to renewals, payments, scheduling, and documentation.
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This city guide is provided as a service by Atlas Van Lines.