Austin keeps drawing people in with its mix of job opportunities, culture, and sunshine, making it one of the fastest-growing places in the country. In fact, the 2025 Texas Migration Report shows that about 186,000 people moved to Austin last year, making up nearly 13% of all moves across Texas.
If you’re planning to join them, a little local knowledge goes a long way. From traffic and parking to finding good movers, every detail matters once the boxes start piling up. Families, retirees, and everyone in between can benefit from understanding what makes Austin tick before they arrive.
This guide walks through what you need to know to make your move easier. You’ll find up-to-date moving cost data, planning tips, and neighborhood ideas designed to help you settle in with confidence.
Why Families Are Moving to Austin
If you’re considering Austin as your new home, you’re in good company. Families are moving here in droves, and there are plenty of reasons why.
For one thing, your money goes further here. When you’re comparing Austin to places like San Francisco or Seattle, the difference is night and day. That extra room in your budget matters whether you’re baby-proofing a home or creating a bedroom on the main floor for aging parents.
“ Some neighborhoods in Austin require temporary permits for moving trucks, especially in areas near the University of Texas or downtown.”
The Austin job market is seriously impressive, too. Everyone talks about Austin’s tech boom (Tesla, Apple, and Oracle have all set up shop here), but there’s way more happening than just Silicon Hills. Healthcare, education, and manufacturing are all thriving. This means there are career options for everyone in the family, whether you’re a 20-something launching your first job or you’re looking for fulfilling work before retirement.
If you have smaller children, the suburbs like Round Rock, Cedar Park, and Pflugerville have great schools, safe streets, and that family-friendly vibe you’re after. And if you’re living with multiple generations, Austin’s healthcare scene is getting better every year. Many neighborhoods are genuinely walkable, making life easier for older family members as well.
Everything You Need to Know About Coordinating a Move in Austin
Moving to Austin is exciting, but getting there takes some planning. The city’s mix of narrow streets and hot weather can surprise newcomers. But with a little preparation, you can keep your moving day running smoothly and even save money along the way.
This section walks through what to plan ahead, how to choose good movers (and what they will cost), what to know about rental trucks and parking permits, and how to protect yourself from scams. Think of it as your local playbook for moving to Austin without the stress.
Plan Ahead for a Smooth Moving Day
A good move starts weeks before moving day. Begin by setting a clear timeline for packing, booking movers, and arranging transportation. HireAHelper’s moving checklist is a great place to start, since it breaks the process into easy weekly steps so you don’t forget the small stuff, like changing your address or setting up utilities.
Next, start sorting your belongings early. Anything you don’t plan to keep can be sold, donated, or recycled, which saves you a ton of money and time in the long run. Once you know what’s staying, check out HireAHelper’s packing guide for tips on labeling boxes and protecting fragile items so unpacking is simple.
If you’re watching your budget, take a few minutes to check out a moving budget template to track what you’ll spend on supplies, labor, and transportation. A little planning can prevent those last-minute and unexpected expenses that tend to show up on moving day.
When the big day comes, confirm times with your movers, clear parking if needed, and keep a cooler of water and snacks handy. Austin weather can be warm most of the year, so take breaks and pace yourself. Staying organized and calm is the best way to start your life in a new home.
Cost of Moving to Austin
In a busy city like Austin, where demand stays high year-round, it helps to know what’s normal to pay. According to HireAHelper data, the average full-service move in Austin runs about $1,062, while a labor-only move costs around $402. However, the final price depends on how much you’re moving, how long it takes, and when you move.
For example, moving a two-bedroom home across town with two movers usually takes about four to six hours. If you’re just hiring labor to load a truck or container, that time frame may drop, and so will your total cost. Families moving from a house with stairs or lots of heavy furniture should plan for the higher end of that range.
Austin, TX Moving Costs Comparison
Timing also matters. As of 2025, April is often the most affordable month to move in Austin, and Mondays also tend to have the lowest hourly rates. Summer weekends are the priciest since demand spikes when school’s out. If your schedule allows, booking a weekday move can save a surprising amount.
When you get a quote, make sure you’re comparing sever, and that you’re looking at the same services across all of them. If one price seems much lower than the rest, that can be a sign of hidden fees or a company that isn’t fully reliable. Look for movers with verified reviews, clear hourly rates, and transparent fees. A company that lists its credentials and has a local address is usually a safer bet than one that only communicates through text or social media.
If you’re not sure where to start narrowing down your moving options, take a look at How to Choose a Good Moving Company. It explains what to ask before booking and how to compare your options.
Navigate Rental Trucks and Moving Permits
If you’re handling your own move or driving a rental truck through Austin, a little local prep can make things much easier. The city’s mix of one-way streets, tight driveways, and busy downtown areas can turn moving day into an obstacle course if you don’t plan ahead.
Parking and Apartment Access
Start by checking whether you’ll need a parking permit. Some neighborhoods in Austin require temporary permits for moving trucks, especially in areas near the University of Texas or downtown. These permits reserve space for your truck so you’re not circling the block while your movers wait, and prevent you from getting fined or towed. You can find step-by-step details in our guide, Do You Need Parking Permits for Moving in Austin?.
If you’re moving into an apartment complex, it’s smart to ask the management office about parking rules and elevator access. Some buildings limit truck height or require advance notice to block off a loading zone, so a quick call ahead can save you a headache on moving day.
Driving in Austin
When it comes to driving, give yourself plenty of time. Traffic in Austin can back up quickly, especially around I-35, Mopac, and Highway 183. If you can, schedule your drive early in the morning before the rush begins. Avoid Fridays and weekends when traffic is at its worst.
You should also make plans around the weather. Summer afternoons can hit the high 90s, which means heavy lifting gets harder. Try to load in the early hours and keep water nearby for anyone helping out.
“Instead of focusing on just a single campus [when you’re looking for schools], look at the elementary, the middle school, and the high school your address will feed into instead.”
Finally, double-check your route before you leave. Some older neighborhoods have low-hanging trees or narrow streets that aren’t ideal for large trucks. Apps like Google Maps or Waze can help you plan a safer, smoother path.
With a little research, your truck will be parked where it should be, your movers will stay on schedule, and your move across Austin will go a whole lot faster.
Avoid Moving Scams
Most movers in Austin are reliable, but it only takes one bad company to turn a good move into a nightmare. Knowing what to look out for is the best way to keep your belongings and your wallet safe.
According to HireAHelper’s Moving Scam Statistics, Texas consistently ranks among the top states for reported moving fraud. The average person who falls victim loses several thousand dollars, usually because the mover demanded more money after pickup or never delivered their items.
The most common scams start with a mover that gives you an estimate that sounds too good to be true, then adds hidden fees later or holds your things until you pay more. Others skip key details like insurance, licenses, or written contracts that are then added to your bill later.
Here are a few red flags to watch for:
- A mover that doesn’t list a local address or a Department of Transportation (DOT) license number.
- Large upfront deposits, especially in cash or through apps.
- Quotes that are hundreds or thousands of dollars lower than everyone else’s.
- Movers who only communicate through text, social media, or messaging apps.
To protect yourself, start by reading verified reviews and checking the company’s registration on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website. Always get your estimate in writing, and make sure it clearly states what’s included.
Get at least three quotes so you can compare hourly rates, travel fees, and what’s included. Seeing a small range helps you spot a suspicious lowball offer more easily.
Choose movers who answer questions clearly, list their credentials, and provide a written estimate that explains labor, travel time, and any extra fees. Austin has plenty of reliable options, especially on platforms like HireAHelper where movers are vetted and reviewed.
Family Moving Guide for Austin
Austin is known for its creativity and laid-back charm. But for families, the city offers a strong job market, excellent schools, and green space to play in, all with a community spirit that helps newcomers feel right at home. Whether you’re moving across Austin or you’re from out of state, this guide will help you find the neighborhood that fits your family best.
How to Find the Right Austin Neighborhood for Your Family
Before you fall for a pretty house, picture a regular Tuesday. Where do you drop off the kids? How long is the drive to work? Can you walk the dog under shade trees without hopping into the car to drive to a park miles away? Use that “daily life” lens as you compare spots around Austin.
Schools and education
Instead of focusing on just a single campus, look at the elementary, the middle school, and the high school your address will feed into instead. Tour in person if you can, and ask about class sizes, after-care waitlists, and bus routes. Families often create a short list first, then shop for homes inside those zones. If you want options, Austin has strong nearby districts like Round Rock ISD and Leander ISD, plus charter and private choices across the metro.
Commute and transportation
Austin traffic is real, especially along I-35. If you can, choose a neighborhood that lines up with your job’s side of town and a route you can live with. Many locals prefer Mopac or 183 when possible, and they factor in toll roads to save time. Do a test drive at rush hour and note how long it takes to reach daycare or the airport. It is much easier to pay a little more for housing than to lose hours of your week to a long drive.
Family-friendly amenities
Make a quick checklist: nearest H-E-B, a park you can walk to, sidewalks, a pool or splash pad, a rec center or gym with a lap pool, shaded trails for dog walking, or any other amenities your family would enjoy. Also, look for places where you can do errands in one loop, not three separate trips. If you like meeting people, check for active community calendars, sports leagues, story time at the library, and farmers’ markets.
Safety and community feel
Numbers help, but your own walk-around tells you the most. Visit at dusk and see if there are strollers, dog walkers, and kids on bikes around. Are the sidewalks continuous and well-lit? Chat with a neighbor about how the area feels after dark and during big events. You should also ask about things like HOA rules, community centers, and other neighborhood amenities.
Best Family-Friendly Neighborhoods in Austin
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Here are family areas that come up again and again for the right reasons: easy access to parks and groceries, a real community feel, and school options that many parents like. Use this as a starting list, then do a weekend drive to see what fits your family’s rhythm.
Rattan Creek / Anderson Mill (NW Austin, RRISD)
Leafy streets, sidewalks, and a big community park with a pool, courts, and a walking trail. Many homes are a short stroll to green space. Two H-E-B locations are a quick drive, and you’re close to the Domain and major employers in North Austin. Families like the mix of young kids and grandparents, plus regular neighborhood events.
Mueller (NE of downtown, AISD and nearby charters)
Walkable living with pocket parks, a weekly farmers market, splash pads, and trails. Plus, you can push a stroller to coffee, groceries, and playgrounds easily. Housing skews newer or thoughtfully redeveloped. It is city living with family-oriented perks, and there are charter options nearby if you want alternatives to your zoned schools.
Brentwood / Crestview / Rosedale (Central-North)
This neighborhood has quiet streets, good tree cover, and parks like Brentwood Park. Parents like the short drives to groceries, kid-friendly eats, and activities along Burnet and North Loop. Sidewalk coverage varies by block, so it is worth walking the routes you would likely take to the park or preschool before you start house hunting here.
Circle C Ranch (SW Austin)
Master-planned convenience with multiple pools, trails, and community spots where families naturally meet. Homes often have more space and yards than those in the city center. Great for people who want suburban calm with weekend access to the Barton Creek Greenbelt and Zilker. If your work is in North Austin, test the commute both ways.
Cedar Park and Pflugerville (North suburbs)
There’s more house for the money here compared to Austin’s core. Cedar Park offers quick access to Lake Travis fun and a steady calendar of family events, while Pflugerville is known for neighborhood parks and an easy jump onto 130 or 45. Both have plenty of shopping and kid-friendly activities close by. However, if you work downtown, you should plan your route accordingly and consider tolls.
Cherrywood and Windsor Park (Central-East and just north of Mueller)
In this neighborhood, you’ll find older homes, mature trees, and a friendly vibe. You’ll also be near parks, coffee, and casual dining, with a short drive to Mueller’s market and splash pads. It’s a good match for families who want a creative feel without giving up a quiet street.
Wells Branch (between I-35 and Mopac, RRISD)
This neighborhood features parks, trails, activity courts, and a very active MUD that keeps amenities in good shape. The area is accessible to both Mopac and I-35, which gives you options when avoiding the worst of Austin’s traffic. Many families choose it for the balance of price, access, and green space.
Great Hills / Balcones area (NW Hills, parts feed into RRISD)
These neighborhoods are hilly, shady, and close to major North Austin employers. Families mention strong feeder patterns in certain pockets of the neighborhood. Keep in mind that not every street has sidewalks, so do a test stroll to the nearest park or school. However, while walking routes might be a little hit-or-miss, commutes to the Domain are more straightforward.
Avery Ranch (Far NW)
Planned trails, community pools, and neighborhood events are just some of the benefits of living in this neighborhood. Many families also like the predictable amenities and the ability to reach 183 quickly. If you want activities where you can meet other parents easily, this kind of master-planned setup can be a good fit.
Buda and Bastrop (South and East of Austin)
If you work near the airport or the southeast side of Austin, these small towns give you more space and a slower pace without being too far from the metro. Buda has a lively community calendar and a quaint downtown, while Bastrop adds quick access to state park trails. You should, however, test the drive at your actual commute time to make sure it’s feasible.
Each neighborhood has its own rhythm, so spend a little time exploring before you decide.
Things Families Should Do Before Moving
Before you pack the boxes or start scrolling listings, spend a little time getting to know the neighborhoods that interest you. The more you can picture your daily life, the easier it’ll be to land somewhere that truly fits your family.
Here are a few easy checks that help narrow things down:
- Map your daily loop. Drive your potential route from home to work, daycare or school, groceries, and the nearest park. Try it at the same time you’d normally be commuting to get a feel for traffic.
- Walk the block at dinner time. You’ll learn a lot just by watching who’s out and about. Look for strollers, kids on bikes, and neighbors chatting on the sidewalk.
- Find the community spots. Ask about local Facebook groups, PTAs, or Buy Nothing pages. These small connections make moving feel less overwhelming and can help you form relationships with your neighbors and communities.
- Prioritize green space. If parks matter, choose a home where you can walk to one. After all, you’ll use nearby parks far more often than ones that require a drive.
Once you have your short list, plan a weekend to visit in person. Many Austin schools welcome new families for scheduled tours or open houses, so it’s a good chance to ask teachers about class sizes, aftercare, and transportation.
If you can, attend a community event while you’re in town. Neighborhoods like Mueller, Cedar Park, and Buda host family festivals throughout the year, and they’re perfect for getting a sense of the crowd. Pay attention to the details: parking, noise, and how friendly people seem. Those little things often tell you more than online reviews.
P“As of 2025, April is often the most affordable month to move in Austin, and Mondays also tend to have the lowest hourly rates.”
If you’re house hunting, don’t forget to check the HOA or neighborhood association rules. Some have shared amenities like pools and playgrounds, but also set limits on fence heights, landscaping, or even where you can park a trailer. Knowing the rules ahead of time helps you avoid surprises after you move, and know if the expectations of the neighborhood match your lifestyle.
Resources for Families Moving in Austin
Settling into a new city is easier when you know where to turn for help, information, and community. These local and national resources can make the transition smoother for families moving to Austin.
Moving and Planning Tools
- HireAHelper Moving Checklist – Step-by-step help for staying organized from start to finish.
- HireAHelper Packing Guide – Tips on protecting belongings, labeling boxes, and packing by room.
- Moving Budget Template – A printable planner for tracking costs and staying on budget.
Schools and Education
Childcare, Family, and Community
Transportation and City Services
These links are a good place to start as you get settled. Bookmark them early—once moving week hits, you’ll be glad to have everything in one place.
Guide to Senior-Friendly and Multigenerational Living in Austin
Austin makes it easy for families of all ages to feel at home. Whether you’re moving with parents, grandparents, or planning for your own next chapter, you’ll find neighborhoods with shaded sidewalks, reliable healthcare nearby, and a relaxed pace that fits just about any lifestyle.
Best Senior-Friendly Neighborhoods in Austin
If you’re looking for places that balance comfort, convenience, and community, these Austin neighborhoods stand out. Each one offers something that makes daily life easier — whether that’s walkable parks, quiet streets, or friendly neighbors who actually stop to chat.
West Lake Hills
West Lake Hills has the kind of calm that makes you want to take an evening walk every day. It’s tucked just west of downtown, full of shady trees and wide views of the hills. Groceries, parks, and medical offices are all nearby, and the smaller streets make it feel private even though you’re just minutes from the city.
Mueller
If you want everything close by, Mueller is hard to beat. The sidewalks are smooth, the streets are flat, and there’s a park or café around nearly every corner. Residents love being able to walk to the grocery store, pharmacy, or weekend farmers’ market. It’s a community that makes daily routines simple, whether you’re pushing a stroller or walking the dog.
Great Hills
Great Hills feels peaceful and well-established, with big oak trees, nice views, and easy access to The Arboretum and nearby healthcare centers. There are also quiet walking trails, well-kept yards, and a good mix of families and retirees who appreciate a balance of quiet and convenience.
Buda
Just south of Austin, Buda offers a small-town feel with the comfort of being close to the city. It has a friendly community, and local festivals fill the calendar year-round. It’s a place where you can slow down a little, get to know your neighbors, and still be within a short drive of family in Austin.
Anderson Mill / North Austin
Anderson Mill has a friendly, everyday feel that appeals to both retirees and families. The homes are mostly single-story, the parks are shaded, and you’re close to everything—groceries, doctors, and shopping at the Domain. It’s easy to get around, and there’s always something happening at the community centers.
Resources for Seniors Moving in Austin
If you’re helping an older family member move, or planning your own transition, these local programs and organizations can make the process easier, along with the links above:
Sometimes it just helps to know where to start. These groups can point you toward the right people, whether that’s a community center, a doctor’s office, or someone who can lend a hand with the move. Once you connect with a few local resources, Austin starts to feel familiar fast — like you’ve got neighbors in your corner even before you unpack.