Are you thinking of moving to South Austin, Texas, but don’t know where to start? You’ve come to the right place. In this ultimate guide, we will cover everything you need to know about living and working in South Austin, including the best neighborhoods, job market, cost of living, and things to do.

Why South Austin?

South Austin is known for its vibrant culture, outdoor activities, and thriving job market. The area boasts a unique mix of urban amenities and natural beauty, making it an attractive place to live and work.

Best Neighborhoods in South Austin

South Austin is home to several diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm. Here are five of the best neighborhoods to consider:

South Congress

South Congress, or SoCo, is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The area is known for its funky boutiques, vintage shops, and eclectic food scene. The neighborhood is also home to several music venues and bars, making it a hub for Austin’s live music scene.

Barton Hills

Barton Hills is a tranquil neighborhood nestled in the hills of South Austin. The area is known for its beautiful parks and outdoor recreation opportunities, including the Barton Creek Greenbelt and Zilker Park. The neighborhood is also home to the Barton Creek Square Mall, which offers a variety of shopping and dining options.

Zilker

Zilker is a family-friendly neighborhood known for its excellent schools and community events. The area is home to Zilker Park, which hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Austin City Limits Music Festival. The neighborhood also offers easy access to downtown Austin and the Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail.

Bouldin Creek

Bouldin Creek is a trendy neighborhood with a laid-back vibe. The area is known for its hip coffee shops, farm-to-table restaurants, and colorful street art. The neighborhood is also home to several parks and green spaces, including the Bouldin Creek Greenbelt.

Travis Heights

Travis Heights is a historic neighborhood with a bohemian flair. The area is known for its unique architecture, tree-lined streets, and artsy vibe. The neighborhood is also home to several parks, including the popular Stacy Park, which features a swimming pool, playground, and tennis courts.

Cost of Living in South Austin

While South Austin is known for its affordable cost of living compared to other major cities in the U.S., it’s still important to understand the expenses you can expect. Here are some of the costs associated with living in South Austin:

Housing

The cost of housing in South Austin varies depending on the neighborhood, but you can generally expect to pay between $1,000 and $2,000 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. If you’re looking to buy a

Transportation

South Austin is a car-centric city, and most residents rely on their vehicles to get around. However, the area does offer some public transportation options, including bus routes operated by Capital Metro. A monthly bus pass costs $41 for adults and $20 for students and seniors.

Utilities

The cost of utilities in South Austin varies depending on usage, but you can generally expect to pay around $150 per month for electricity, water, and gas.

Food

South Austin is known for its excellent food scene, with plenty of options for every taste and budget. You can expect to pay around $15 for a meal at a mid-range restaurant, and around $50 per week for groceries.

Job Market in South Austin

South Austin is home to several major employers and industries, making it a hub for job opportunities. Here are some of the top employers and industries in the area:

Top Employers

• St. David’s South Austin Medical Center
• Advanced Micro Devices (AMD)
• SolarWinds
• Cirrus Logic
• NXP Semiconductors

Major Industries

• Technology
• Healthcare
• Education
• Government
• Retail

Average Salary in South Austin

The average salary in South Austin varies depending on the industry and occupation, but the median household income in the area is around $75,000 per year.

Things to Do in South Austin

South Austin offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, live music, and food and drink. Here are some of the top things to do in the area:

Outdoor Activities

• Hiking and biking in the Barton Creek Greenbelt
• Swimming and kayaking in Lady Bird Lake
• Playing disc golf at Zilker Park
• Visiting the Austin Nature and Science Center

Live Music Scene

• Catching a show at the famous Continental Club
• Seeing local bands at the Saxon Pub
• Enjoying a concert at the Austin360 Amphitheater

Food and Drink

• Trying the famous breakfast tacos at Torchy’s Tacos
• Sampling craft beer at the Jester King Brewery
• Dining at Franklin Barbecue, known for its mouth-watering brisket

Schools in South Austin

South Austin is home to several excellent schools, from elementary to higher education. Here are some of the top schools in the area:

Elementary Schools

• Barton Hills Elementary
• Zilker Elementary
• Dawson Elementary
• Kiker Elementary

Middle Schools

• O. Henry Middle School
• Small Middle School
• Gorzycki Middle School

High Schools

• Austin High School
• Bowie High School
• Travis High School

Higher Education

• St. Edward’s University
• Austin Community College

Healthcare in South Austin

South Austin offers several top-notch healthcare facilities, including St. David’s South Austin Medical Center and Seton Southwest Hospital. The area is also home to several specialty clinics and urgent care centers.

Public Transportation in South Austin

While South Austin is primarily a car-centric city, there are several public transportation options available, including bus routes operated by Capital Metro. Additionally, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in the area.

Conclusion

South Austin is a vibrant and affordable place to live and work, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, live music, and great food. Whether you’re looking to buy a home or rent an apartment, South Austin offers something for everyone.