Fun Facts When Moving to Austin

The capital of the second largest state in the nation, Austin is a colorful city that exudes classic Texas charm. We aren’t surprised that Americans are heading to The Lone Star State and never looking back.

With an estimated 2015 population of 931,830 people, Austin is a town so beloved by its residents that they have no problem proclaiming its superiority to anybody who will listen. For those looking for a Southwestern lifestyle full of tacos, cowboy hats and live music, Austin just might be the city of your dreams.

Austin thrives on a deep appreciation of great food, friendly neighbors and outdoor living.

 

Here are some fun facts you might not know about Austin along with some necessities that will be helpful for your move to what's known by many as the Live Music Capital of the World.

• Sometimes called Bat City, Austin is home to the largest urban bat population in North America. With about 1.5 million bats living under the Congress Avenue Bridge, these nocturnal wonders consume more than 20,000 pounds of insects each night. Yum!

*  You’ll make tons of new friends in Austin. Ranked the fifth friendliest city in the U.S. by CNT Traveler in 2015, Austin is known for its vibrant charm and welcoming residents.

• Everything can be taco-ized in Austin. Especially breakfast.

   Local Tip: Check out the 20 essential Austin breakfast tacos to forever change the way you start your day.

• Dubbed the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin is home to over 100 live music venues – and that’s just on a regular day. It's also home to the famed Austin City Limits music festival, which boasts more than 150 musical acts performing over a three-day span, and the famed South by Southwest festival. Austin truly lives up to its name as the mecca for all things music.

• You know that Whole Foods place? Yeah, it was started in Austin.

• Austin has an average of 300 days of sunshine per year.

• Austin is home to the fourth largest college university in the nation. The University of Texas at Austin is home to more than 51,000 students and boasts the eighth largest college football stadium in the country where the Texas Longhorns hit the gridiron.

• The median price for an Austin home is $227,800.

• It’s a good idea to do your utility research in order to have all of your necessities smoothed out before arriving. By having your water, electricity, cable, gas, etc., all set up and ready to go, it will make your transition that much more streamlined.

Check out these four tips for a successful move to Austin: 

1. Give yourself planning time

When you make a move across the country, it’s crucial to devote extra attention to the planning process. Make sure that you start preparing at least 8 weeks before your moving date.

2. The sturdier the box, the better

Make sure that you invest in some good, durable moving boxes. Your most prized and personal possessions are going to be making their way to this popular city, so it’s imperative that they are protected as best they can be.

Pro Tip: Check out your local liquor stores, banks, etc. They tend to give boxes away for free!

3. Pack smart

Think about your current items. Think about what you absolutely NEED, and what can likely get tossed or donated. Bring your essentials, but consider getting rid of that old ironing board and investing in some new kitchen appliances once you’re settled in.

4. Take inventory and label those boxes

It pays to be extra organized. Take pictures of all your belongings so that you know exactly what you are or aren’t bringing with you. And don’t forget to label those boxes with as much detail as possible. Nothing is worse than arriving at an empty house or apartment with a truck load of unlabeled or sort of labeled boxes. The more details on your box labels, the easier it will be when you start to unpack and fill your new space.