The Best Places to Live in Austin TX
Known for Music,and so Much More
In Austin TX,the outdoors are a way of life. This Texas city offers something for everyone,from scenic trails to lakes with crystal clear water.
No matter if you are a first time visitor to Austin or a new resident,the people will be happy to show you around. From a world-class ballet to one-of-a-kind shopping,this vibrant city has a lot to offer.
Art & Culture
From world-renowned museums to locally-focused festivals,Austin is a creative city. Take in a documentary or visit a gallery to get a fresh perspective on the local scene.
Art is not only a part of life in Austin,it’s an identity. The multi-story Tau Ceti mural and Kempelen’s Owl statues are both popular hands-on public artworks to explore during a charter bus tour of the city.
The Bob Bullock State History Museum in Texas reveals the rich cultural diversity of this state. This is evidenced by exhibitions that focus on the Spanish,Mexican,and Tejano influences on the region. It also hosts community-focused exhibitions like American Sabor: Latinos in U.S. Popular Music.
Music & Entertainment
Austin’s music is well-known around the globe thanks to festivals such as South by Southwest,Austin City Limits and its more than 250 live venues. The highest concentrations of venues are in the 6th Street and Red River entertainment districts.
In some cases,musicians get paid starving artist rates,playing for tips on weekdays and charging for tickets at other times. Some organizations are working to change this.
Among them is the Austin Center for Events,a group that streamlines special event permits on city property. This is a collaborative effort between departments such as transportation,parks,and police. The city offers a free channel for events — Spectrum Government-Access Television,Channel 15
Outdoors & Adventure
Glorious sunshine and acres of outdoor space means that Austinites embrace open-air activities with a passion. From rooftop bars and patio brunching to hiking trails and splashing in a city lake,the options are endless.
Onion Creek Park and the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail are great places to spend a sunny day in Austin. Bouldering,swimming and hiking are all available at this state park that’s located right in the heart of the city.
Food & Drink
This surprisingly foodie town has a vibrant culinary scene. From greasy Tex-Mex to oak-smoked BBQ,there is something for everyone. Check out celebrated staples like east side favorite Hoover’s Cooking and the award-winning New American eatery Barley Swine.
Or,go for a higher-end experience at Lutie’s,a verdant retreat of an eatery from husband-and-wife chefs Bradley Nicholson and Susana Querejazu. The menu is a reflection of their time spent in San Francisco,with a focus on vegetables. Ramen Tatsu-Ya,a chain of upscale noodle shops that has four locations in the city,has brought their delicious noodle dishes to the city. Try the mole tsukemen. Other must-visits include a quirky Mexican truck,DeeDee’s,and the elegant Italian truck Patrizi’s.
Shopping & Nightlife
Shopping is a must-do when visiting the Texas capital. Austin offers a wide range of shopping options for every budget and taste. From luxury malls to boutiques,antique shops and local boutiques.
If dancing is your thing,this city has a booming nightlife scene with clubs that attract regulars and newcomers to practice their two-step or salsa moves. There are several upscale lounges that serve creative cocktails.
Living in Austin
Austin’s best neighborhoods are determined by your lifestyle,budget and commute. Each neighborhood in Austin has its own unique charm,but the best one for you depends on a number of factors such as school ratings and your potential neighbors.
Living in Austin can feel hectic at times,especially since the city is growing at a faster-than-average rate. Traffic can get bad,and the transit infrastructure hasn’t caught up to the city’s booming population.