7 Tips for Living in Austin

This is a must read if you're moving to Austin or thinking about moving there.

Austin, Texas, is a vibrant city known for its live music, food scene, and outdoor activities. It's a popular destination for expats and digital nomads, offering a unique blend of urban and natural attractions. Here are seven key tips to help you make the most of your time in Austin.

1. Explore the Neighborhoods

Austin is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. Downtown is the heart of the city, home to the Texas State Capitol and a bustling nightlife scene. South Congress, or SoCo, is known for its eclectic shops and restaurants, including the famous Guero's Taco Bar. East Austin is a vibrant area with a mix of old and new, where you can find hip coffee shops next to traditional Mexican bakeries. Meanwhile, the Hyde Park neighborhood offers a quieter, residential feel with beautiful historic homes. Spend some time exploring these areas to find your favorite.

2. Enjoy the Outdoors

Austin is a city that loves the outdoors. The Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail is a popular spot for walking, running, and biking, with beautiful views of the city skyline. Zilker Park, home to the Austin City Limits Music Festival, is a great place to relax, play sports, or have a picnic. For a unique Austin experience, visit the Barton Springs Pool, a spring-fed swimming hole in the heart of the city. And don't forget to check out the Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset to see the world's largest urban bat colony take flight.

3. Embrace the Food Scene

Austin is a foodie's paradise, with a wide range of cuisines to explore. For a taste of Texas, try some barbecue at Franklin Barbecue or La Barbecue. If you're a fan of Mexican food, don't miss the tacos at Torchy's Tacos or the enchiladas at Enchiladas y Mas. For a more upscale dining experience, check out Uchi for innovative sushi or Emmer & Rye for farm-to-table fare. And of course, no visit to Austin would be complete without trying some local food trucks, like Veracruz All Natural for tacos or East Side King for Asian fusion.

4. Get Involved in the Community

One of the best ways to feel at home in a new city is to get involved in the community. Austin has a vibrant volunteer scene, with opportunities to help out in areas ranging from environmental conservation to education. Research local organizations that align with your interests and consider giving back to your new community. Not only will you be making a difference, but you'll also have the chance to meet locals and make new friends.

5. Take Advantage of Co-Working Spaces

As a digital nomad, finding a good place to work is crucial. Austin has a number of co-working spaces that offer not just a desk and Wi-Fi, but also a community of fellow remote workers. Spaces like WeWork, Impact Hub, and Capital Factory offer flexible memberships and a variety of amenities, making them a great option for digital nomads.

6. Experience the Live Music Scene

Austin is known as the "Live Music Capital of the World," and for good reason. On any given night, you can find live music performances across the city, from blues at Antone's Nightclub to country at The White Horse. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the Austin City Limits Music Festival, one of the city's biggest events, or the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival, which showcases music, film, and interactive media from around the world.

7. Learn About Local History and Culture

Take some time to learn about Austin's history and culture to deepen your appreciation of the city. The Bullock Texas State History Museum is a great place to start, with exhibits covering the story of Texas. The Blanton Museum of Art, located on the University of Texas campus, offers a diverse collection of art from around the world. For a unique slice of local culture, visit the Museum of the Weird in downtown Austin, which celebrates all things strange and unusual.

Living in Austin as an expat or digital nomad offers a wealth of opportunities to explore, learn, and connect. By embracing the local culture, taking advantage of the city's resources, and getting involved in the community, you can make the most of your time in this vibrant Texas city.