Moving From San Antonio To Austin

Moving from one city to another can be a significant life change — especially when planning to move to the wonderfully weird city of Austin, Texas.

Relocating from San Antonio to Austin is a popular transition among Texans thanks to Austin’s unique charm and quaint appeal despite being a major city. With a vibrant arts culture, thriving job market, and renowned music scene, Austin has a little bit of something for everyone.

In this guide, we are talking all about moving from San Antonio to Austin, Texas. We cover the key aspects to consider before making the move, such as cost of living and employment opportunities, as well as the best neighborhoods and seasonal weather within the city.

Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about moving from San Antonio to Austin!

Austin vs. San Antonio: Things To Know Before Moving To Austin

These days, it seems like everyone is packing up and heading to Austin.

In 2022 alone, the Austin Chamber of Commerce reports that the city’s population grew by more than 61,000, with more than 37,000 people moving from other parts of the country. 

If you plan to move from San Antonio to Austin, you may wonder what advantages Austin has over your former city. Let’s compare the two and look at five key considerations for moving to Austin:

1. Cost of Living:  Austin’s housing market has been competitive in recent years, with rising home prices and a demand that can sometimes outpace supply. Compared to San Antonio, Austin’s real estate market can be considerably more expensive. Budgeting and researching thoroughly to find housing options in Austin that suit your needs is essential. Property taxes can also differ between the cities of Austin and San Antonio and the specific neighborhoods you reside in. 
2. Employment Opportunities: Austin has earned a reputation as a growing tech hub, often referred to as the “Silicon Hills.” Companies like Apple, Google, and Facebook have established a significant presence in the city, making it a huge draw for budding tech professionals. If you work in the tech industry, Austin may offer better job prospects than San Antonio. Besides technology, Austin also has a thriving job market in various sectors, including healthcare, education, and creative industries. 
3. Traffic and Transportation: As a growing city, Austin can sometimes experience traffic congestion, which has become a concern due to its rapid growth. Commute times can be lengthy, and it is essential to consider your daily transportation needs and proximity to work when choosing a place to live. This can be an especially important consideration if you plan on driving a moving truck yourself or simply for planning your moving schedule, as you will need to account for traffic delays that may inhibit the efficiency of your move. 
4. Education: Austin has a strong education system with excellent public and private schools. If you have children or if you are planning on pursuing higher education, research the schools in your desired area to ensure they meet your expectations. Speaking of higher education, Austin is home to the University of Texas at Austin, a prestigious public university. If you or your children are considering obtaining a higher degree, UofT Austin may be the institution for you. 
5. Quality of Life: Renowned for its live music scene, cultural festivals, and vibrant arts community, Austin has no shortage of events and activities to enjoy. You’ll likely find Austin appealing if you enjoy a lively and creative atmosphere. Additionally, Austin offers many impressive outdoor public spaces and parks, including the iconic Barton Springs Municipal Pool. Austin’s proximity to the Hill Country and its numerous parks, lakes, and trails make it an ideal choice for nature enthusiasts.

The Best Places to Live in Austin

Deciding to move to Austin is only the first decision you have to make — next, you must determine which neighborhood is best for you and your lifestyle.

Austin is home to many excellent neighborhoods ranging from affordable and up-and-coming to upscale. Choosing an Austin neighborhood depends on your personal preferences and what you want from your local community, such as nightlife or family-friendly environments. 

According to Niche’s 2023 Best Places, the top four best places to live in the Austin area are:

1. Gateway: The Gateway neighborhood is located in the northern part of Austin, near the intersection of Loop 1 (MoPac Expressway) and State Highway 183. Gateway is a commercial and residential area known for its shopping centers, dining options, and easy access to major highways. The Domain, a large outdoor shopping and entertainment complex, is one of the central attractions in this neighborhood, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and nightlife options. Residents of Gateway enjoy the convenience of having numerous amenities at their doorstep, making it a popular area for young professionals and families.
2. Brushy Creek: Brushy Creek is a suburban neighborhood situated in the northern part of Austin, in Williamson County. This neighborhood is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and excellent schools. The neighborhood gets its name from the nearby Brushy Creek, which provides natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Residents appreciate the peaceful environment, well-maintained parks, and community events. The neighborhood offers a mix of housing options, from single-family homes to apartments, and is an overall great choice for those seeking a quieter, suburban lifestyle while still being relatively close to the city.
3. Hyde Park: Hyde Park is a historic and centrally located Austin neighborhood, known for its eclectic charm, cozy bungalow-style homes, tree-lined streets, and strong sense of community. Situated just north of the University of Texas campus, Hyde Park provides a mix of residential and commercial areas. Hyde Park is famous for its vintage architecture and offers residents easy access to bohemian-style local restaurants and coffee shops. The neighborhood is also home to the annual Hyde Park Street Fair, a beloved community event that celebrates local culture.
4. Shady Hollow: Shady Hollow is a family-friendly, suburban neighborhood located in the southwestern part of Austin. This neighborhood is known for its spacious homes, well-maintained public spaces, and excellent public schools. The neighborhood offers a tranquil and safe environment, making it a popular choice for families. Residents have access to parks, trails, and a community pool. While it is a bit farther from the city center, Shady Hollow provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of urban life, with a strong sense of community.

What’s the Weather Like In Austin, Texas? 

Austin has a humid subtropical climate, which translates to hot and humid summers followed by mild winters. While you may not break the bank during the colder months, planning accordingly for the hot summer months and occasional tropical storms or hurricanes is key. 

Here’s a breakdown of the seasonal weather in Austin: 

• Summer: Summers in Austin are hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C) from June to September. When spending time outdoors during the summer in Austin, staying hydrated and prepared for scorching temperatures is essential.
• Fall: Fall brings relief from the summer heat, with milder temperatures and less humidity. While it can still get decently hot in the fall, the season is an overall pleasant time to explore Austin’s many outdoor activities and enjoy the arts and music festivals that occur during the season.  
• Winter: Winters in Austin are mild, with occasional cold spells. It is rare to see snow — though not impossible — and temperatures typically range from the 40s to 60s°F (4-20°C). This can be majorly beneficial to your utility bills during the winter months. 
• Spring: Spring is one of the best times to enjoy Austin’s outdoor scene. The weather is generally pleasant, with temperatures in the 60s to 70°F range (15-25°C). Just be wary of pollen during the spring, especially if you have moderate to severe outdoor allergies. 

Moving To Austin: 3 Final Tips

Before finalizing your move to Austin, ensuring you have properly prepared and know what you are getting yourself into is vital.

Here are three final tips to keep in mind when moving to Austin from San Antonio: 

• Visit Before You Move: If you have not spent much time in Austin, consider visiting the city to get a feel for its neighborhoods, job market, and culture. This can help you determine which neighborhoods suit your lifestyle and preferences best. 
• Plan Your Finances: With Austin’s rising cost of living, it’s crucial to plan your finances, create a budget, and explore housing options that fit your budget. Any city can be made more affordable with the right level of planning and compromise. 
• Embrace Change: Moving to a new city is an exciting but challenging endeavor. Embrace the change, be open to new experiences, and get involved in the local community to make the most of your Austin adventure.

Austin Moving Company: Trust Word of Mouth Moving for Your Move to Austin

Moving can be exciting — but also incredibly frustrating without the right support.

Take the frustration out of moving to Austin with Word of Mouth Moving. Word of Mouth is a leading moving company in the Austin area. With the help of the Word of Mouth Moving team, your move to Austin can go off without a hitch. 

Word of Mouth Moving’s experienced movers provides a wide range of services, including: 

• Local and long-distance moves
• Labor-only services
• Secure packing 
• Office and commercial moves

Get in touch with Word of Mouth Moving today to get started.