Your Guide to Becoming an Austin Resident: What You Need to Know

So, you’re thinking about moving to Austin? Welcome to the land of breakfast tacos, live music, and a whole lot of personality! Whether you’re relocating for work, lifestyle, or just because you fell in love with the city during a weekend trip (trust me, it happens), there are a few things you’ll want to know before making Austin your home.

As someone who lives here, I know that moving can feel overwhelming, but I promise, Austin is worth it. Let’s walk through the essentials of becoming an official Austin resident.

Finding the Right Neighborhood

Austin’s got something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a trendy downtown loft, a family-friendly suburb, or a quiet retreat in the Hill Country. Here are a few neighborhoods to consider:

• Downtown – If you love high-rise living, walkability, and being in the middle of the action, downtown is for you. Just be ready for a higher price tag.
• South Austin – Think quirky coffee shops, vintage boutiques, and an “old Austin” feel. It’s one of my personal favorite areas for its local charm.
• North Austin – Great for professionals and families, with easy access to major employers and plenty of shopping and dining.
• East Austin – A mix of historic and modern, this area has some of the best food and culture in the city.
• Suburbs like Round Rock, Cedar Park, or Pflugerville – If you want a little more space but still want to be close to Austin, these areas are worth looking into.

The best way to find your spot? Visit in person, explore different areas at different times of the day, and talk to locals.

Housing: Renting vs. Buying

The Austin housing market has been a hot topic for years. Prices have gone up, but there are still options for every budget—it just takes some research and planning.

• Renting: If you’re new to the city and not sure where you want to settle long-term, renting might be your best bet. Austin’s rental market is competitive, so be prepared to act fast when you find a place you love.
• Buying: If you're thinking of purchasing a home, I can help guide you through the process! As a real estate professional, I work with buyers looking to navigate the Austin market. Let’s chat about your homeownership goals.

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, financial, or real estate advice. Always consult with a licensed real estate professional or legal expert before making any housing decisions.

Setting Up Your Texas Residency

To officially become an Austinite, there are a few things you’ll need to take care of:

• Update Your Address: Change your address with the USPS, update your driver’s license, and switch over your vehicle registration.
• Get a Texas Driver’s License: The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) requires new residents to transfer their out-of-state license within 90 days.
• Register Your Vehicle: If you’re bringing a car, you’ll need to get it inspected and registered in Texas.
• Register to Vote: Texas has voter registration deadlines, so make sure you’re registered in time to participate in elections.

Getting to Know Austin’s Lifestyle

Austin is a city that embraces its weirdness, and that’s one of the reasons people love it here. A few things to keep in mind:

• Traffic is real. If you’re coming from a city with public transportation, you might be in for a shock. Most people in Austin drive, and traffic during rush hour can be frustrating. Plan accordingly!
• Outdoor life is a big deal. Whether it’s paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake, hiking at the Greenbelt, or hanging out at Zilker Park, Austin has endless ways to enjoy the outdoors.
• Food is a religion. BBQ, Tex-Mex, food trucks—Austin’s food scene is incredible. Be prepared to eat well.
• Music & festivals are everywhere. SXSW, ACL, and dozens of other events happen year-round. If you love live music and cultural festivals, you’re in the right place.

Connecting with the Community

Moving to a new city can feel lonely at first, but Austin is full of friendly people and opportunities to meet others. Here’s how to get involved:

• Join local Facebook groups or meetups – There are groups for everything from hiking to networking.
• Check out coworking spaces – If you work remotely, Austin has great coworking communities where you can meet like-minded professionals.
• Support local businesses – From farmer’s markets to boutique shops, Austin thrives on its local business scene.
• Follow Austin events – Keep an eye on local event calendars to stay in the loop on what’s happening around town.

Ready to Call Austin Home?

Making the move to Austin is exciting, and I’d love to help you settle in! Whether you’re looking for a rental, ready to buy a home, or just need local recommendations, feel free to reach out.

Disclosure: I am a licensed real estate agent with REAL BROKER. If you have any real estate needs, I’d be happy to assist you. All opinions expressed in this blog are my own and do not reflect the views of my brokerage.