Austin, Texas, has a unique charm that draws people from all walks of life. It’s the state capital, known for its vibrant music scene, entrepreneurial spirit, and natural beauty. I’ve called this city home for several years now, and I want to share what it’s like living here. From the best places to visit, things to do, and where to eat to the cost of living, healthcare, and transportation options—this guide covers it all. Let’s dive into what makes Austin such a dynamic and appealing city.
Table of Contents
Best Places to Visit in Austin
Austin is filled with a mix of historic landmarks, natural parks, and cultural hubs. Some of the best places to visit here include:
- Zilker Park
Zilker Park is a massive green space in the heart of Austin. It’s a local favorite for picnics, running, or just enjoying the sunshine. I often take advantage of the park’s proximity to the Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed swimming pool that stays cool year-round. - The Texas State Capitol
A trip to Austin isn’t complete without visiting the Texas State Capitol. This historic building offers free tours, and its architecture alone is worth the trip. It’s larger than the U.S. Capitol building in D.C., and the grounds are beautifully landscaped. - Lady Bird Lake
Lady Bird Lake offers a serene escape from the city. I’ve spent countless afternoons kayaking or paddleboarding on the lake. You can also walk or bike along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, which surrounds the water. - The Bullock Texas State History Museum
To dive deep into Texas history, I recommend checking out the Bullock Museum. It features a range of exhibits from the state’s rich history, from the Republic of Texas era to the modern-day. - South Congress Avenue (SoCo)
For a mix of shopping, dining, and live music, SoCo is the place to be. It’s one of the most popular streets in Austin, with eclectic shops, restaurants, and galleries. On weekends, the streets come alive with street performers, artisans, and food trucks.
Best Things to Do in Austin
Austin offers more than just great places to visit; it’s a city built for experiences. Some of my favorite things to do include:
- Attend SXSW
Every March, the city transforms for the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival. It’s a massive event that brings together music, film, and tech from all over the world. Even if you don’t attend the official events, the city buzzes with energy during SXSW. - Catch a Live Show on Sixth Street
Austin’s live music scene is legendary. Sixth Street, or “Dirty Sixth” as it’s locally known, is where you can catch live performances almost every night of the week. The range of music genres is as diverse as the city itself. - Hike Mount Bonnell
For some of the best views of the city, take a short hike up Mount Bonnell. It’s a great spot for sunrise or sunset, and it’s a relatively easy hike with rewarding vistas of Lake Austin. - Watch the Bats at Congress Avenue Bridge
Every evening from March to November, over a million bats emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge. It’s a sight to behold and one of the most unique things about living in Austin. I recommend grabbing a spot along the riverfront around dusk. - Explore the Barton Creek Greenbelt
If you love outdoor activities, the Barton Creek Greenbelt offers 12 miles of hiking and biking trails. There are also spots to rock climb, swim, and picnic along the way.
Best Restaurants to Eat in Austin
Austin’s food scene is as diverse as its population, and there are countless places to eat. Here are some of the best:
- Franklin Barbecue
You can’t talk about Austin without mentioning Franklin Barbecue. It’s arguably the best barbecue in the country but be prepared for long lines. I usually go early in the morning to beat the rush. - Uchi
For sushi lovers, Uchi is a must. It’s one of the top sushi spots in the country, with creative and fresh dishes that never disappoint. - TacoDeli
Austin is home to some incredible tacos, and TacoDeli is one of my favorite spots. The Frontera Fundido is a must-try, but honestly, everything on the menu is solid. - Torchy’s Tacos
Another Austin taco staple is Torchy’s Tacos. Their creative taco combinations and queso are famous across Texas. - Odd Duck
For a farm-to-table experience, Odd Duck offers innovative dishes using local ingredients. The menu changes regularly, but the quality and creativity are consistent.
Holiday Activities in Austin
The holiday season in Austin is festive and filled with activities for families and friends:
- Trail of Lights
The Trail of Lights at Zilker Park is a beloved tradition. Each December, the park transforms into a winter wonderland with over 2 million lights, food vendors, and holiday displays. I make it a point to go every year—it’s a magical experience. - Mozart’s Light Show
Another holiday favorite is Mozart’s Light Show, which takes place at Mozart’s Coffee Roasters. You can enjoy a cup of coffee or hot chocolate while watching the synchronized light show along Lake Austin. - Blue Genie Art Bazaar
For unique holiday shopping, the Blue Genie Art Bazaar offers handmade goods from local artists. It’s a great way to support local businesses while picking up one-of-a-kind gifts. - Ice Skating at Whole Foods
The flagship Whole Foods location in downtown Austin sets up a rooftop ice skating rink during the holidays. It’s a fun and unexpected activity in a city that rarely sees snow.
Cost of Living in Austin
Austin’s popularity has driven up the cost of living, but it remains more affordable than cities like New York or San Francisco.
- Rent
Rent in Austin varies by neighborhood, but as of 2024, the average cost for a one-bedroom apartment is around $1,500 per month. Rent in downtown or trendy areas like South Congress will be higher, but you can find more affordable options in East Austin or the surrounding suburbs. - Food
Groceries in Austin are moderately priced, with a monthly grocery bill for one person averaging around $300 to $400. Dining out can vary, with budget-friendly taco trucks costing just a few dollars and high-end restaurants like Uchi costing significantly more. - Transportation Costs
If you have a car, gas prices hover around $3.50 per gallon. Public transportation via CapMetro is affordable, with bus fares at $1.25 per ride or $41.25 for a monthly pass.
Safety and Security in Austin
Austin is generally a safe city, but like any urban area, it has its risks:
1. Emergency Numbers
- Police, Fire, Medical Emergencies: 911
- Non-Emergency Police: (512) 974-5000
- Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
- Crime Rates
Crime rates in Austin have risen slightly as the population has grown, but it’s still considered safe compared to other cities of similar size. The downtown area can see higher rates of petty crime, but residential neighborhoods tend to be quieter.
Transportation Options in Austin
While Austin is known for its traffic congestion, there are several transportation options to help navigate the city:
- CapMetro
Austin’s public bus system, CapMetro, services most areas of the city, with direct routes to downtown and major attractions. - MetroRail
For commuters, the MetroRail is a light rail system that runs from downtown Austin to the northern suburbs. It’s a convenient option if you’re living outside the city center. - Ride-Sharing
Apps like Uber and Lyft are widely available, and electric scooters are a popular choice for short trips around downtown. - Cycling
Austin is becoming more bike-friendly, with designated bike lanes and the Austin B-Cycle bike-share program.
Employment Opportunities in Austin
Austin’s economy is booming, thanks to a mix of industries and large employers:
- Tech Industry
Austin is often called “Silicon Hills” due to its thriving tech industry. Companies like Dell, Apple, Google, and Facebook all have a major presence here. Startups are also a significant part of the local economy. - Government Jobs
As the state capital, government jobs are plentiful, particularly in administrative, legal, and public service roles. - Education
The University of Texas at Austin is one of the largest employers in the city, offering a wide range of opportunities in education, research, and administration. - Healthcare
Austin’s healthcare industry is growing, with major employers like St. David’s HealthCare and Ascension Seton.
Healthcare Access in Austin
Austin offers a variety of healthcare options, from primary care to specialized medical services:
St. David’s Medical Center
- Address: 919 E 32nd St, Austin, TX 78705
- Phone: (512) 476-7111
Ascension Seton Medical Center
- Address: 1201 W 38th St, Austin, TX 78705
- Phone: (512) 324-1000
Dell Children’s Medical Center
- Address: 4900 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723
- Phone: (512) 324-0000
Education in Austin
Education is a key part of life in Austin, with options for every age group:
- Primary and Secondary Schools
Austin is served by the Austin Independent School District (AISD), which has a mix of public, charter, and magnet schools. - Higher Education
The University of Texas at Austin is a renowned institution with strong programs in business, engineering, law, and more. There are also several community colleges, including Austin Community College (ACC), which offers affordable options for higher education.
Cultural and Social Scene
Austin’s cultural scene is vibrant and diverse. The city has a thriving arts community, with galleries, theaters, and music venues all across the city. The Blanton Museum of Art and The Contemporary Austin are two popular art spots. The city also hosts Austin City Limits and Austin Film Festival, which attract international audiences.
Climate and Weather
Austin has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. In the summer, temperatures often soar above 100°F, while winter temperatures typically stay between 40°F and 60°F. It’s not uncommon to experience flash floods in the spring, so always check the weather before heading out.
Green Spaces and Recreation
The city’s green spaces are one of my favorite parts of living here. In addition to Zilker Park and the Barton Creek Greenbelt, McKinney Falls State Park and Mayfield Park offer beautiful trails and picnic spots. Lake Travis, just outside the city, is ideal for boating and water sports.
Community and Diversity
Austin is a melting pot of cultures and communities. It’s known for being open-minded and inclusive, with a strong LGBTQ+ community and a growing international population. The city’s East Side is home to many Black and Latino residents, contributing to Austin’s rich cultural diversity.
Public Services and Infrastructure
Austin’s public services, such as utilities, waste management, and public transportation, are efficient. The city’s infrastructure, however, is still catching up with its rapid growth. Traffic congestion can be an issue, especially during rush hour, but ongoing projects like the Project Connect transit expansion aim to improve transportation.
Political and Social Climate
Austin is known for being one of the most liberal cities in Texas. Politically, it leans heavily towards progressive policies, which is reflected in its support for environmental initiatives, affordable housing, and social justice issues. This can create a unique contrast with the more conservative surrounding areas.
Noise and Air Pollution
Living in downtown Austin, you’ll notice the hustle and bustle of the city. Traffic noise and construction are common, especially with new developments. However, air quality is generally good, though it can dip during high-traffic times or on particularly hot summer days.
Food and Dining Options
In Austin, you can find food from all around the world. In addition to Tex-Mex and barbecue, there are excellent options for Indian, Thai, Japanese, and Italian cuisine. Farmers markets like the Texas Farmers’ Market at Mueller offer fresh, local produce.
Austin has a lot to offer for those looking to live in a vibrant, diverse city with a strong sense of community. While it has its challenges, like rising costs and traffic congestion, the benefits far outweigh them. It’s a city where you can always find something new to do, whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or someone who loves a good live show.
