Austin Review
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8/5/2013
Wow, a lot of negative reviews on here about Austin. Thought I'd add my .02.
Climate - It is hot, this is why we plan our outdoor activities in the early monring and early evenings. That said, even in midday heat, it's still possible to enjoy outdoor stuff. Drink water, wear sunblock and dress appropriately. This is in opposition to the mild winters we have, typically 40s in the coldest month and more like 50s - 60s through most of the winter.
Culture - I've seen comments on how Austin doesn't compare to NY, LA or San Francisco. Well... yeah, we're a small city. But Austin does have enough culture to get you by until you visit those places. There's a well respected ballet and symphony, museums (art and historical, which do contain exhibits on Native Americans contrary to one posters assertion) and tons of other fun things to do (for a city of this size).
Traffic - There is a lot of traffic on I35. There is a fair amount on Mopac. If you know how to get around you can avoid trouble areas. I have been to Houston, Dallas, Chicago, Atlanta, New York, New Jersey and Los Angeles. On our worst day we're not in the same ballpark, same league, same sport as the congestion in these areas. Our public bus system is lackluster. The metrorail has limited stops. But they do function and I'm not unimpressed completly with both and expect improvements in the future.
Housing - Some posters have mentioned how expensive it is, but it is similar to all cities; it's more expensive closer to downtown. $150,000 can get you a 700 sq ft apartment 15 or so blocks north of downtown, it can get you a 1400 sq ft house 15 miles north of downtown, or a 2000+ sq ft house 30 miles north of downtown. Seem pretty reasonable to me.
Standard of Living - Almost all people I know here are not having any trouble making ends meet.
Taxes - Tax rate for Travis County is about 2.5%. Sales tax is 8.25%. No state income tax.
Water - This is going to be Austin's biggest hurdle. As we have increased population, coupled with droughts lasting years, we are going to have to get much better about water conservation.
Schools - I'll speak to the two high schools I have knowledge of. Westwood and Anderson. One is ranked 45th in the country and the other is like 150th, both have IB programs. Some homes in these areas are very expensive. Some are reasonably priced, like in the $150K range. Apartments are available in both areas.
Austin is a great town, if you come here work hard and make good financial decisions, it is as good as any other town. I've enjoyed Austin and have no plans to move.
Austinite | Austin, TX