Moving from California to ATX was one of the scariest and most exhilarating things I’ve ever done. It was the start of a whole new life outside of the “tech bubble” I was raised in. The move process for us was pretty straightforward; visit a friend in Austin, check out amazing houses for affordable prices {comparatively speaking to the Silicon Valley $1 million dollar price tags}, eat at delicious restaurants and explore a fun new city. For us, it seemed like a no-brainer and in the end, we obviously jumped at the chance at our new life here! Before we moved we asked friends here what life in Austin was actually like, however, I understand not everyone has that option.
So here’s my list of things I wish I knew before we made the move to Austin:
This bipolar weather is no joke:
Beautiful sunshine and 80-degree temperatures can plummet 25 degrees in 24 hours. The Austin weather will keep you on your toes and will give you an immense amount of variety. Everything from heat to snow to hurricanes.
Blue city in a red state:
Austin isn’t your typical Texas city, it’s surprisingly liberal. Some say the city may have grown its blue color from the Silicon Valley transplants, UT students, events like SXSW, and the booming economy. But as the saying goes, “Keep Austin Weird.”
Top rated public schools:
For young families moving to Austin, top-rated public schools are pure gold. Many of the public schools are comparable to many expensive private schools. While public schooling may not always be the right fit for everyone, having that option of a great education through public school districts is a huge benefit.
UT tailgates are life:
The burnt orange blood runs deep here! UT tailgates are some of the most amazing Saturdays in town. With loads of food, drinks, and music you can spend hours jumping from tailgate to tailgate. With outdoor TVs at many, you can enjoy your Longhorns without even needing a ticket to the game.
Tacos & queso:
When you move to Austin, you automatically adopt two new food groups into your food pyramid; tacos and queso! These are staples at just about every restaurant. In fair warning, burritos are hard to come by here, which is one of the few things I miss from back home in California.
If you are from out of state the “locals” will despise you:
Here’s a little secret…those “locals” are more than likely not born and raised here either. While most people will be really friendly and welcoming, you will find the occasional eye rolls and sass {the reason why my CA license plate was gone within two weeks}. With the large influx of people to the city, things like traffic, housing costs, and overcrowding are among the many compliments by the so-called natives.
Scorching summers:
Summers are HOT! But everyone told you this already so this isn’t anything that should be a surprise. Most Austinites enjoy days on the lake, picnics at Zilker and lots of AC during those peak heat months. It will be hot and spoiler alert, you will survive!
Fitness freaks:
Austin is one of the most active cities you will find – yes, even on those hundred degree summer days. The trails down by Lady Bird Lake are always packed full of avid runners, families with strollers and college students. The city streets are lined with the latest fitness studios and even the latest trends like Goga Goat Yoga have popped up!
No liquor Sundays:
Liquor stores are closed on Sundays and HEB will only sell beer and wine after noon. So this does require a bit more planning for Sunday football Bloody Marys at the house or the Sunday taco and margarita nights. Moral of the story: always stay stocked up 🙂
