City Profile
Austin, Texas
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Austin, the capital of Texas, is renowned for its vibrant culture, live music scene, and progressive ethos, often encapsulated by its unofficial motto, 'Keep Austin Weird.' Nestled in the heart of Central Texas, the city serves as a major hub for technology and innovation, attracting a diverse population seeking economic opportunities and a high quality of life. Its unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty, with numerous parks, lakes, and outdoor recreational areas, makes it a desirable destination for residents and visitors alike. The city's rapid growth over the past decades has transformed it into a bustling metropolis, yet it strives to maintain its distinctive character and community spirit.
Texas is a large and diverse state known for its independent spirit and blend of Southern and Southwestern cultures. Its robust economy, the second largest in the U.S., is driven by major industries such as oil and natural gas, information technology, aerospace, defense, and healthcare. Living in Texas generally offers a lower cost of living compared to the national average, particularly in housing, and there is no state income tax. The climate varies significantly across the state, ranging from humid subtropical in the east to semi-arid and arid in the west, with hot summers being a common characteristic. The lifestyle is diverse, offering everything from vibrant city experiences to quieter rural living, with a strong emphasis on community and a wide array of recreational and cultural activities.
Performance
Quality Scores
Expenses
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Austin, TX, is approximately 4.4% lower than the national average, making it slightly more affordable than many other major U.S. cities. However, this overall figure can be misleading, as housing costs, while recently seeing some declines, remain a significant factor. Rent prices, for instance, have experienced fluctuations, with some reports indicating a decrease in average asking rents year-over-year from August 2024 to August 2025. Despite these recent dips in rental costs, Austin's rapid population and job growth continue to exert upward pressure on the overall cost of living. While utilities and groceries are generally on par with or slightly below national averages, the demand for housing, particularly in desirable neighborhoods, can drive up expenses. The absence of a state income tax in Texas does offer some financial relief to residents, helping to offset other rising costs.
Income
Salary Insights
Austin's economy is robust and diverse, characterized by strong job growth and a thriving technology sector. The city added 27,200 jobs in 2025, representing a 2.0% growth rate, which was significantly higher than the state and national averages. This strong performance positioned Austin as the best-performing among the 50 largest U.S. metros for job growth in 2025. Key industries driving Austin's economic engine include Professional & Business Services, Education and Health Services, and Financial Activities, all of which have shown significant growth in recent years. Major employers like Dell, Apple, and Tesla contribute to the city's reputation as a tech and innovation hub, alongside a dynamic startup scene. While some sectors like information and manufacturing experienced declines in 2025, the overall job market remains strong, attracting a skilled workforce and fostering an entrepreneurial climate.
The average salary in Austin is $74,152 per year. You would need approximately $69,000 to live comfortably.
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Weather
Climate
Mobility
Transport
Getting around Austin primarily involves driving, with a significant portion of the population commuting alone by car. In 2024, 56% of commuters drove alone, while 30.7% worked from home. The average commute time in Austin is approximately 28.5 minutes. While car dependency is notable, Austin is working to enhance its public transportation options through Capital Metro (CapMetro), which provides bus and rail services. Efforts are also underway to improve walkability and bike infrastructure, particularly in downtown areas and popular neighborhoods. However, for many residents, a car remains essential for navigating the city and its surrounding areas.
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