A Guide to Moving to Austin, Texas 

Moving to Austin, Texas, is popular with British ex-pats who are drawn to its excellent job opportunities, live music scene, and vibrant culture. Its iconic food scene, booming tech industry, and outdoor activities make Austin a great place to relocate to. 

Although Austin is prone to extreme weather such as flooding and effects from hurricanes, it offers mild winters and hot summers. The city offers the perfect blend of big-city amenities and a laid-back lifestyle.

1st Move International has explored everything you need to know about moving to Austin, from the weather to getting around the city, we’ve covered it all in this detailed blog post.

The Pros of Living in Austin

Austin is a vibrant city with a population of 1 million. 4,000 of those are British ex-pats drawn to the cultural diversity of the city. Austin is a progressive city compared to much of Texas, attracting people from all over the world. 

Areas like Downtown Austin, South Congress, and Westlake are popular with Brits due to the mixture of an urban lifestyle, local shops, and top-rated schools, respectively. Austin is a major tech hub, offering a moderate cost of living compared to other big cities, and an excellent live music scene.

Tech Hub

One of the fastest-growing tech hubs in the U.S., Austin is known as “Silicon Hills.” There is a significant presence of big tech names such as Apple, Tesla, Dell, Google, and Amazon in the city. It also consistently ranks highly as one of the best U.S. cities for start-ups, especially in the tech industry. The city impressively has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the U.S. too.

Live Music Scene

Often called the “Live Music Capital of the World”, Austin is renowned for its rich music scene ranging from country, indie, and rock, to blues, jazz, and electronic. Hosts of the famous South by Southwest (SXSW) festival, Austin boasts world-class venues like The Continental Club, ACL Live at The Moody Theater, and The Broken Spoke.

Moderate Cost of Living

Although costs are rising, Austin’s cost of living is moderate compared to major cities like San Francisco, New York, and LA. Areas like Pflugerville, Round Rock, and Cedar Park that are outside of downtown generally have lower housing costs. There is also no state income tax in Austin or the whole of Texas, making it an even more attractive city to live and work in.

The Challenges of Moving to Austin

Living in Austin doesn’t come without its challenges, but if you come prepared, they are manageable. The extreme weather means very hot summers and a risk of flash flooding in certain areas. The large layout of the city also means many people rely on their cars which causes traffic congestion, especially during rush hour.

Flood Prone

There are several flood-prone areas in Austin including Barton Creek, Onion Creek, and Lady Bird Lake. The city experiences flash floods during intense rainstorms which happen quickly due to the hilly terrain, urban infrastructure, and creeks. The overall risk of flooding is manageable, and many areas of Austin remain safe from frequent or significant flooding events.

Hot Summers

Austin experiences extremely hot and humid summers, with temperatures in July and August reaching between 32°C and 38°C during the day. Nighttime temperatures can be 21°C and 28°C increasing the humidity levels. Residents pay high utility bills to cool their homes during this season. 

Traffic Congestion

Due to the city’s growth in recent years, traffic has become worse, especially during rush hour. To keep up with the growth, many major roads have been undergoing construction or expansion projects, which can make traffic even worse. Public transport isn’t as extensive as in other major cities, so many residents rely on driving to get to most places.

Securing a Visa for Austin 

There are a series of steps to carry out to secure your U.S. visa for Austin. These steps will depend on the type of visa you are applying for. There are different visa categories, including tourist visas, work visas, student visas, and family-based visas. The most common visas for moving to the USA are as follows:

Family Visas:

• Fiancé(e) Visa (K1 Visa): The K1 Visa allows foreign-citizen fiancé(e)s of a U.S. citizen to enter the U.S. to marry your U.S. citizen sponsor within 90 days of arrival. They can then apply for adjustment of status to a permanent resident.
• Spouse Visas (IR1, CR1, K3): The IR1, CR1, and K3 Visas, also known as the Marriage Green Card, allow spouses of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents to live as permanent residents in the U.S.

Work Visas: 

• Speciality Occupations (H1B Visa): The H1B Visa is a work visa for workers in a speciality occupation, such as IT, finance, accounting, architecture, engineering, mathematics, medicine, etc.
• Employment-based Immigrant Visas (EB-1, EB-2, EB-3, EB-4, EB-5): These visas are for workers in a variety of situations, from “priority workers” with extraordinary abilities or multinational executives (EB-1) to skilled workers and professionals (EB-2 and EB-3) and even immigrant investors who are investing a large amount of capital into a U.S. enterprise (EB-5).
• Intra-company Transferee (L1 Visa): The L1 Visa is for managers, executives, or specialised knowledge employees transferring to their employer’s U.S. office.

Student Visas: 

• Student Visas (F1 or M1 Visa): These visas are for individuals who wish to study in the U.S. F1 visas are for academic students, while M1 Visas are for vocational students.
• Exchange Visitors (J1 Visa): The J1 Visa is for individuals approved to participate in work-and-study-based exchange visitor programs.

Investor Visas:

• Trader/Investor Visas (E1/E2 ): These are for people who conduct significant trade between the U.S. and their home country (E1), or who are investing a significant amount of capital in a U.S. business (E2). 

To learn more about U.S. visas, read our detailed guide on Moving to the USA From the UK.

Applying for a U.S. Visa

It’s important to apply well in advance of your move to Austin as visa applications can take a few months. Here are the key steps to follow:

1. Determine the Right Visa – Research the right visa for the purpose of your stay. 
2. Apply for a Visa: you’ll have to complete the visa application form relevant to your category. This is typically under the category of an immigrant visa for long-term stays or through a Green Card. 
3. Schedule a Visa Interview: You’ll need to have an in-person interview either at the U.S. Embassy in London or the Consulate in Belfast.
4. Prepare Documentation: Gather the essential documents such as your passport, visa application confirmation, visa fee receipt, and any supporting documents (e.g., job offer, financial proof, or educational enrollment).
5. Await Response: Your interview, documents, and application will be reviewed and you will be informed of the outcome.

Best Places to Live in Austin

Choosing where to live in Austin will depend on your budget, preference, and lifestyle. Think carefully of the amenities you want to be near to, these are typically; schools, work, hospitals, etc. We’ve listed some popular areas of Austin along with the average house price in each to help with your search. 

Downtown Austin

Housing is expensive in downtown Austin, with the medium sale price being $813,000. Renting is the more common choice in downtown areas, with the market comprising mainly luxury high-rise apartments, modern condominiums, and some older buildings that have been renovated into lofts. Rent is one of the most expensive in Austin but remains more affordable than in large U.S. cities like San Francisco and New York. Average monthly rental costs are around $2,760.

You can save money on driving and travel costs with the city’s walkable nature. It’s one of the most walkable areas in Austin, with grocery stores, cafes, and offices all within walking distance. The area is well connected by the Capital Metro bus and MetroRail if you do need to travel around the city. 

There are also plenty of live music offerings, festivals, and a vibrant nightlife scene to explore. Downtown is home to many culinary hotspots, from food trucks offering authentic Tex-Mex, to upscale dining. There are also plenty of parks and beautiful green spaces such as Zilker Park and Lady Bird Lake. Overall, Downtown Austin offers everything for a vibrant urban lifestyle.

South Austin

Housing in South Austin is more affordable compared to downtown Austin, with the median home sale price being around $565,000. Circle C Ranch, Shady Hollow, and Bouldin Creek are popular neighbours for families. Although buying is the more common choice, renting remains popular, especially in South Congress (SoCo) and South Lamar. Common property types include single-family homes, modern townhouses, and apartment complexes. Monthly rental costs in South Austin average around $1,800-$2,200, making it a more budget-friendly option than downtown, while still offering easy access to Austin’s amenities.

South Austin is known for its quirky and creative vibe, offering a community feel with its lively music scene, outdoor festivals, and community events. It’s home to iconic spots like South Congress Avenue, which offers a mix of boutique shops, local eateries, and live music venues. The area is also rich in natural beauty, with easy access to Barton Creek Greenbelt, Barton Springs Pool, and Zilker Park, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking, swimming, and relaxing in nature.

While South Austin is less walkable than Downtown, many neighbourhoods are designed with convenience in mind. Local shops, grocery stores, and cafes are often just a short drive or bike ride away. The area is served by the Austin Independent School District and offers some highly regarded schools including Baranoff Elementary School, Gorzycki Middle School, and Bowie High School. 

East Austin

Property in East Austin, especially the outer areas, is some of the most affordable in Austin. The median home sale price is around $525,000 but can vary by neighbourhood, with cheaper properties found in Montopolis and Colony Park. East Austin is one of many in Austin that is rapidly growing and becoming a popular area for families, creatives and young professionals. Popular neighbourhoods include Mueller, Cherrywood, and Holly, each offering unique character and charm. While homeownership is growing, renting remains common, especially in the central and newly developed parts of East Austin. Apartments and duplexes near East Sixth Street and Springdale Road are popular and the average rent in East Austin is $2,547 per month.

East Austin boasts a vibrant cultural scene and is home to many historical landmarks. You can find the George Washington Carver Museum, Huston-Tillotson University, and many street art installations. Popular schools for families include Maplewood Elementary, Kealing Middle School, and Eastside Early College High School. There is also easy access to natural beauty areas like the Boggy Creek Greenbelt and Govalle Park, as well as trails along the Colorado River and Lady Bird Lake.

Understanding the Rental and Property Market 

The property market in Austin isn’t considered competitive, so you are likely to have lots of options to pick from. The city was crowned the top rental market in the U.S. for 2024, due to its affordable renting options, job opportunities, and a high share of renters. 

Are you Renting or Buying in Austin?

Due to rising housing costs, the majority of residents in Austin rent over owning their home. Approximately 55% of Austin residents rent while the remaining 45% own property. The average house price in Austin stands at $550,000, while the average monthly rent costs $1,770. Renting is a popular choice for newcomers who want to try out different neighbourhoods without the financial commitment of buying property.
Luxury apartments and modern condos dominate the market in these areas. Families and long-term residents tend to prefer homeownership in Austin. 

Choosing a Neighbourhood

The neighbourhood you choose will depend on your budget, preferences, and amenities. Urban areas like Downtown, East Austin, and South Lamar have a popular rental market, appealing to workers who don’t want to commute far. Cedar Park, Round Rock, and South Austin are popular areas for buyers due to their proximity to good schools, family-friendly amenities, and more affordable property prices.

Create a Realistic Budget

The average house price in Austin stands at $550,000, while the average monthly rent costs $1,770. Make sure you understand what you can afford to pay monthly in either rent or mortgage payments and don’t overstretch yourself. 

Process For New Residents

There are no restrictions on buying property in Austin for new residents from the UK. you can rent or own your home without any complications. You can view current listings on property portal websites like AustinRealEstate.com, RealtyAustin.com, and Zillow, where you can schedule virtual or in-person viewings. Whether you are buying or renting in Austin, you’ll have to gather important documents required to continue. These typically include; a copy of your I.D., proof of income via bank statements or payslips, a credit check, and a background check. If you’re renting, you’ll also have to pay a security deposit and potentially an application fee. 

Outlook for 2025

Austin’s property market is set to grow stably in 2025, with sustained demand and limited inventory driving this. The property market could present a good opportunity for buyers looking for good value higher-end properties due to falling prices.

Organising Finances in Austin 

Moving from the UK to Austin requires proper planning, especially when it comes to managing your finances. There are essential services and steps to take to ensure you’re on track to live and work in the U.S. 

Social Security Number 

If you are working in the U.S. on a valid work visa or are a permanent resident, you will need to get a social security number. An SSN is legally required for many services in the U.S., including gaining employment, paying taxes gaining insurance, and opening a bank account. To apply for an SSN you will need to gather important documents like your passport, work visa, form I-94, evidence of your immigration status and a letter from your employer. You’ll have to complete the Form SS-5 and apply at the Social Security Office in Austin. 

Opening a Bank Account 

Once you have your SSN, you can open a bank account in Austin. This is crucial for managing your finances, paying bills, and receiving your income. Opening a bank account in Austin is vital to avoid international transaction fees from the UK. Popular banks with branches in Austin include Bank of America, Chase, and Wells Fargo. It’s important you convert your GBP to USD strategically to avoid high fees and unfavourable rates. Services like Wise or Revolut offer competitive exchange rates. 

UK and U.S. Taxes

Fortunately for Austin residents, there is no state income tax charged to residents in Texas. You will however need to file a federal tax return to pay federal tax. You will have to inform HMRC in the UK of your move to resolve any tax issues. If you’re still earning UK income, you may need to file a UK self-assessment tax return. The U.S. and the UK do have a tax treaty to avoid double taxation in both countries, it’s best to speak to a financial professional about what this means for you. 

Extra Costs to Consider 

Work out all your living costs and create a realistic budget to stick to. This should include rent or mortgage payments, monthly grocery shopping, utilities and bills, and any other regular monthly outgoings. Remember, you’ll have to factor in private health insurance costs for you and your family as this is an essential service in the U.S. Most employers cover a share of this, but you will likely have to pay something towards insurance costs.

Understanding the Cost of Living in Austin

Austin has a historically moderate cost of living compared to the other big U.S. cities, however, the recent popularity and growth of the city means the cost of living is on the rise. Although still cheaper than cities like LA and San Francisco, the cost of living in Austin is slightly pricier than in Dallas, 13% more expensive than in Houston, and 15% higher than in San Antonio. It is also 15% more expensive than the national average.

A family of four should budget around $3,978 per month for living costs according to Numbeo, not including housing costs. Utilities cost $169.07 per month, with a reliance on air conditioning in the summer months, this remains lower than other major U.S. cities. Restaurant and grocery prices are slightly lower in Austin than in Dallas, with a meal in an inexpensive restaurant costing $18. 1kg of chicken fillets, beef, water, and imported beer all being significantly more affordable. 

A monthly travel pass in Austin is 51% cheaper than in Dallas, averaging $45 per month. City centre apartments are also more affordable to rent in Austin than in Dallas, with 1-bedroom coming in at 27% cheaper. 

Navigating the Job Market in Austin

Known for its dynamic job market, Austin is consistently outperforming national averages in employment growth. 

Job Market 

There were 302,400 jobs created in Austin from August 2023 to August 2024, making the city rank highly in the top 20 job markets in the U.S. Austin also has a 2.2% annual nonfarm growth rate, surpassing the national average by 0.7%. The city has a 3.30% unemployment rate, which is significantly lower than the national average of 4.40%. 

Key Sectors in Austin

The technology sector is a key component of the Austin economy, with the city often referred to as Siliican Hills. Austin is a significant tech hub, with many big tech names having a large presence there. The healthcare, biotechnology, education, and government sectors are big employers with a wide variety of roles available.

Austin Salaries

Salaries are competitive in Austin, and with no state income tax, workers get to keep more of their paychecks. The average annual salary in Austin is currently $83,000, with salaries varying by sector, experience, location, and company.

• Technology: The biggest sector in Austin, roles in software engineering offer salaries ranging from $132,000 to $235,200 annually. 
• Healthcare: Lab technician roles in Austin have an average salary of $45,589 per year, while Medical Technologists average $41,781.
• Biotechnology: General biotech positions have an average salary of $150,000 per year. Entry-level positions start from $69,525 and experienced workers can earn up to $170,000.
• Education: Education salaries vary by role and department. University Faculty in the Department of Medical Education earn approximately $81,197 per year.

Job Seeking in Austin

You can find current job listings on popular websites like Indeed and Glassdoor, but there are also Austin-specific websites for a more refined search.

• Austin City Jobs: You can view full and part-time roles as well as internships and temporary roles on the Austin City Jobs website. You can also create an account to track your application process. 
• University of Texas at Austin: The University of Texas at Austin is a big employer, offering a range of many academic and non-academic roles. There are roles in the faculty and human resources sectors, as well as student jobs.

How to Prepare for Working in Austin

1. Adapt your CV for the role you want to apply for and ensure it’s targeted to an American audience. 
2. Gather essential documents and apply for your work visa. You will most likely need a visa sponsorship from your employer, typically the H-1B, L-1, or O-1 visas.
3. Understanding the key industries is important, as there is always a demand for employees in these large sectors. Discover the big employers in your field and research current roles.
4. Make sure your qualifications are recognised and in the right format for the U.S. as certain law or medicine qualifications may need further certification. 

Transport Options in Austin

Austin is a growing city, and while the public transport network is expanding to keep up with the growth, it still isn’t as extensive as other cities. We’ll share the most popular methods of transport that locals use to get around the city.

Driving 

Due to the city’s large layout and recent growth, public transport isn’t as extensive compared to other large cities. Many residents rely on their personal vehicles for everyday use. This causes significant traffic congestion during peak times, such as daily rush hour. 

CapMetro Bus

Capital Metro operates an extensive bus network, including local, MetroFlyer, MetroRapid, and MetroExpress services. There are over 1,600 bus stops with 82 routes, covering a 535-square-mile area. It’s a popular option for students and families who want to travel between downtown and neighbouring areas. You can purchase tickets through the CapMetro App and day passes cost $2.50 for local bus services and $7 for commuter services.

MetroRail

The MetroRail runs for 32 miles between Leander (northwest Austin) and downtown Austin (Downtown Station). Trains run between 6:55 am and 8:23 pm during the weekdays and until 1:32 am on Fridays and 1:37 am on Saturdays. Travellers can buy tickets via machines at the station or through the same CapMetro App for the bus. Tickets cost $3.50 for one way and $7 for a day pass. Tickers are free for those under 18 and discounted for military personnel. 

Ride-Hailing and Taxis

Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft are popular, especially for those without cars. They are often used for journeys that would take longer via public transport or parking would be difficult. Traditional taxi companies include Yellow Cab, Austin Cab, and Lone Star Cab.

Can I Ship My Car to Austin?

Yes, you can ship your car from the UK to Austin through our sister company Autoshippers. Costs vary depending on your exact destination and type of vehicle. The closest port to Austin that we ship to is Galveston and the average cost to ship a standard saloon car is £1,477.

Autoshippers have been shipping cars from the UK to the U.S. for over 25 years so have the essential experience and knowledge. Autoshippers offer Roll on Roll off services for cars, SUVs, autos, motorhomes, trucks, vans and buses. All sailings are direct from the UK ports of Liverpool or Southampton to many ports in the USA including Galveston, New York, and Brunswick.

Do I Need a Dallas Driving License?

You will need to get a Texas driving license within 90 days of obtaining residency in Dallas. Unfortunately, there is no agreement between the UK and the U.S. that allows you to use or exchange your UK license, therefore you have to take a written and practical driving test in Dallas. 

To apply for a driving license in Dallas, you’ll need to schedule an appointment with a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. You’ll have to bring important documents such as; proof of identity, a copy of your visa, proof of address in Dallas, and your Social Security Number. 

You will have to carry out a written test, a vision exam, and a road skills test. You will have to do the test in a registered and insured vehicle. You’ll also need to get valid car insurance once you have passed as this is a legal requirement in Texas. The cost of a license is $33. 

Schools and Education in Austin

Austin offers excellent educational facilities for all ages and abilities. The city is home to some of the best public high schools in Texas. Here we’ll explore schools and education in Austin.

Public Schools

Educating more than 80,000 students, the Austin Independent School District is the largest public school district in Austin. Schools like the Liberal Arts and Science Academy and Austin High fall under this district and are highly ranked within the state.  There are also public charter and magnet schools that offer alternative curriculums and specialised programmes in science, arts, and technology. Notable charter schools include KIPP Austin and Austin Achieve.

Private Schools 

Many high-standard private schools in Austin offer rigorous academic programmes. There are also private specialised religious schools that focus on a range of religions and specialised curricula. Notable private schools in Austin include St. Andrew’s Episcopal School, The University of Texas Elementary School, and Trinity Episcopal School. 

Higher Education

Austin is home to The University of Texas at Austin, which is one of the most prestigious in the state and the U.S. The school offers a wide range of courses for both undergraduates and graduates, most notably in the engineering, business, law, medicine, and liberal arts departments. Texas State University, St. Edward’s University, and Austin Community College are other universities and colleges in Austin with diverse offerings.

Accessing Healthcare in Austin

Healthcare is made up of a mixture of public and private healthcare systems in Austin, focussing on providing a high quality of care, accessibility to all residents, and innovation.

Public Healthcare 

Austin Public Health is one of the largest public health providers in Austin and provides services like vaccinations, disease prevention, and health education programs for the city’s population. It also oversees community health centres like CommUnityCare Health Center that offer care to low-income and uninsured residents of Austin. They accept a wide range of insurance plans and also provide services to those without insurance.

Private Health Insurance 

Most residents of Austin receive private health insurance through their employer or individual plans via the Health Insurance Marketplace. St. David’s HealthCare and Seton Healthcare Family are the largest private healthcare systems in Austin, offering comprehensive care through hospitals, clinics, and speciality centres. These systems provide a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, maternity services, and cancer treatment.

Austin Medicare/Medicaid

Austin also offers Medicare and Medicaid to eligible residents to ensure healthcare is accessible for all Medicare helps those aged 65 and over and those with disabilities cover the cost of hospital care, outpatient care, and prescription drugs. Medicaid provides healthcare coverage for low-income residents, with eligibility determined by income, age, and disability status.

Health Costs 

The typical monthly premium for health insurance can range from $200 to $600, but employers often cover some of this. If you are purchasing a private health insurance family plan, costs can range from $600 to $1,800. Even with insurance, you will have to pay for GP visits and hospital stays. Depending on your insurance plan and other factors, a doctor’s appointment can cost from $15 to over $50.

Taking Your Pets to Austin

Moving abroad with animals can be challenging for both you and your pet. It’s important that you are prepared to ensure a stress-free experience, especially for nervous cats or dogs. Here are the essential steps to follow to move your pet to Austin and get them settled. 

Vaccinations and Health Certificates 

Dogs must have their rabies vaccination within 30 days before travelling to the U.S. There is no requirement for cats to have theirs. Pets must have a health certificate issued within 10 days of travelling to the U.S. Although microchipping is not mandatory for entry into the U.S. or Texas, local laws might require it and it’s always recommended for peace of mind. 

Airline and U.S. Import Rules 

The U.S. does not require a quarantine period for pets arriving into the country, but they may be subject to inspection on arrival. Ensure your pet is up to date with the essential vaccines and certificates needed to travel by air and that they have a pet carrier that is approved by your airline.

Register Your Pet 

The City of Austin requires you to register dogs and cats by visiting the Austin Animal Center. To do this you must show proof of rabies vaccinations. You should also register your pet with the local vet for any emergencies and vaccination boosters. 

Getting Your Pet Settled 

Austin is a pet-friendly city with multiple pet-friendly parks and designated areas like Zilker Park and Barton Creek Greenbelt. Austin experiences many months of hot and humid weather, so slowly getting your pet used to the heat is vital. Ensure they have plenty of water and take it easy on walks during these months. 

Adapting to the Weather in Austin

Austin has a humid subtropical climate, which means it experiences hot and humid summers and mild winters. The city receives around 86 cm of rainfall per year, with most occurring in spring and fall. This can lead to flash flooding, especially in certain areas near rivers and creeks. Here’s an overview of what the weather is like throughout the year.

Spring – Warm and Pleasant

Spring is one of the seasons that gets the most rainfall, so flash flooding may occur during these months. Thunderstorms are also likely to happen during May. These months see temperatures as high as between 21 and 32°C, and lows of 10–21°C. It’s also one of the best months for outdoor activities as it’s not too hot.

Summer – Hot and Humid

Austin summers see temperatures as high as 41°C for some time, and lows of 21–27°C. It is hot and humid during the summer months, making any outdoor activity uncomfortable. Many residents’ utility bills will go up during the summer to ensure their homes are fully cooled.

Fall – Cooler

It gets much cooler in fall but you can still experience warm days. Fall brings highs of between 21 and 32°C, and lows of 10–21°C. Rainfall is more likely as well as flash flooding during fall as heavy rain is common in this season. By the time November comes, temperatures are much cooler and even chilly in the evenings and nights.

Winter – Mild 

Winters are mild and the city rarely sees freezing temperatures, with the exception of occasional cold fronts. Expect highs of between 10°C and 21°C and lows of -1–10°C. It’s the ideal season for outdoor activities due to the mild temperature, with many people partaking in hikes and bike rides.

What’s Going on in Austin

Austin offers a vibrant culture, a thriving music scene, and plenty of outdoor activities for the whole family. 

Food and Drink

Barbecue and Tex-Mex food is a staple of Austin cuisines. You’ll often find food trucks serving authentic tacos and BBQ food. Popular spots include Veracruz All Natural and Torchy’s Tacos. Franklin Barbecue, Terry Black’s BBQ, and La Barbecue serve up iconic barbecue classics like brisket and ribs. Craft breweries are also popular in Austin, with local breweries like Austin Beerworks, Jester King Brewery, and Hops & Grain offering tours. 

Live Music 

Austin is known for its excellent live music scene, hosting annual festivals and offering iconic venues. Called the ‘Live Music Capital of the World’, the city offers a variety of performances in venues such as Stubbs BBQ, Antone’s Nightclub, and Mohawk. You can expect live music, bars, and street performers throughout 6th Street or South Congress Avenue. The Austin City Limits Live is a world-famous venue that hosts concerts and live recordings. Attend the South by Southwest (SXSW) music festival that celebrates music, film, and tech.

Outdoor Activities 

Austin has lots of natural beauty spots where you can get involved in outdoor activities. The McKinney Falls State Park offers hiking trails, camping spots, and waterfalls. Rent a kayak, paddleboard, or canoe in Lady Bird Lake. The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail offers stunning skyline views of the city. There are also plenty of family-friendly activities in Austin such as the Austin Zoo, Thinkery, and The Austin Aquarium.

Arts and Culture

The city has a vibrant arts and cultural scene, with numerous museums and street art murals to explore. The Bullock Texas State History Museum has interactive exhibits and an IMAX theatre to learn about the culture and history of Texas. The Blanton Museum of Art offers worldwide art collections and the Mexic-Arte Museum in downtown is home to Mexican and Latin American art.

How Much Will It Cost to Move My Personal Belongings to Austin?

When shipping household goods and personal effects to Austin from the UK, your moving costs will vary depending on the size of your move and final address in Austin.

Here are the average costs for moving from UK to Austin:

• Small Move: £ 998.00
• 1-bed flat: £1,187
• 2-bed flat: £2,127
• 3-bed house (20 ft container): £5,629
• 4+ bed house (40 ft container): £7,437

About our international moving services to Austin

1st Move International can safely ship your household and personal belongings to Austin from the UK. We offer a guaranteed weekly shipping service that ships directly to multiple ports in the U.S. Our safe packing and shipping techniques provide full protection for your items. 

Visit our International Removals page and find out more about our great range of packing, shipping, and insurance options or you can a moving overseas quote, tailored to your individual moving requirements.

You can also check out our online international moving costs calculator here.

For more details on our packing process and the benefits of shipping with commercial co-loaders see our Faster Shipping, Safer Packing and Smarter Billing pages.