What Should I Know Before Moving From Long Island to Austin, Texas?

Moving from Long Island to Austin means trading dense suburbs, cold winters, and high taxes for a fast-growing city known for tech jobs, live music, and a lifestyle built around warmth and outdoor living. Austin offers strong job growth, no state income tax, and cultural energy—but housing competition, heat, and rapid growth require planning for Long Islanders used to the New York market.

Cost of Living & Lifestyle Comparison

Austin is more affordable than many parts of Long Island, though prices have risen significantly in recent years.

Here’s how the shift typically looks:

  • Home prices are lower than most Nassau County neighborhoods, but competitive in central Austin

  • No state income tax, a major change from New York

  • Property taxes are higher than average, often offset by lower home prices

  • Utilities increase in summer due to air conditioning

  • Dining, entertainment, and daily expenses are generally affordable

Lifestyle differences are immediate:

  • Warm weather most of the year

  • A casual, creative, and outdoorsy culture

  • Less formality and a strong social scene

  • Car-dependent living, though walkable pockets exist

  • Fast-paced growth mixed with a relaxed attitude

For many movers, Austin blends opportunity with lifestyle appeal.

Employment & Opportunities

Austin is one of the strongest job markets in the country, especially for tech and creative professionals.

Key industries include:

  • Technology and software

  • Semiconductors and hardware

  • Startups and venture-backed companies

  • Healthcare

  • Education and research

Major employers and anchors include Apple, Tesla, Dell, Samsung, and University of Texas at Austin.

Austin is especially popular with professionals relocating from NYC for tech roles or remote work flexibility.

Education & Schools

School quality varies by neighborhood and suburb, making location choice important for families relocating from Long Island.

Well-regarded areas and districts include:

  • Eanes Independent School District (West Lake Hills)

  • Round Rock Independent School District

  • Lake Travis Independent School District

  • Select Austin ISD magnet programs

Private and charter schools are also common throughout the metro.

Higher education is anchored by the University of Texas at Austin, which strongly influences the city’s culture and economy.

Real Estate Practices: What’s Different?

Texas real estate practices are more standardized and faster than New York’s.

Key differences include:

  • Attorneys are not typically involved in residential transactions

  • Faster contract-to-close timelines

  • Newer construction and master-planned communities are common

  • HOA neighborhoods are widespread

  • Competitive bidding in desirable school districts

Homes often emphasize modern layouts, home offices, and outdoor living spaces.

Eric Berman REALTOR® can connect you with trusted Austin-area agents who understand relocation needs and neighborhood differences.

Logistics of the Move

Relocating from Long Island to Austin is a true cross-country move.

Be prepared for:

  • A car-dependent lifestyle

  • Increasing traffic due to rapid growth

  • Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) with nonstop NYC flights

  • Hot summers and mild winters

  • Minimal weather-related disruptions

Summer heat is the biggest day-to-day adjustment for many New Yorkers.

Community & Quality of Life

Austin is best understood as a collection of neighborhoods with very different vibes.

Popular areas include:

  • South Congress (SoCo): Trendy, walkable, and cultural

  • Zilker: Central, green, and active

  • Mueller: Planned community with amenities

  • West Lake Hills: Upscale with top-rated schools

  • Cedar Park: Suburban, family-friendly living

Lifestyle highlights include:

  • Live music and festivals year-round

  • Strong food truck and dining culture

  • Outdoor activities around Lady Bird Lake

  • Health- and wellness-focused lifestyle

  • A creative, entrepreneurial energy

Austin appeals to buyers who want culture, growth, and flexibility.

Tips for a Smooth Transition

  • Budget for higher summer utility costs

  • Understand property tax impacts on monthly payments

  • Explore school districts carefully

  • Visit in summer to experience the heat

  • Work with Eric Berman REALTOR® to connect with vetted local professionals

Your Move to Austin

Relocating from Long Island to Austin offers a shift toward opportunity, creativity, and a warmer climate. While growth and heat require adjustment, many Long Islanders find Austin’s energy and job market compelling.

With Eric Berman REALTOR® guiding your relocation, you gain trusted insight, strong connections, and a clear plan to move with confidence.

FAQs

Is Austin more affordable than Long Island?
Generally yes, especially when factoring in no state income tax, though housing competition is real. For a personalized comparison, visit 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us

Which Austin suburbs are best for families moving from New York?
West Lake Hills, Lake Travis, Round Rock, and Cedar Park are popular for schools and community. Learn more at 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us

How does buying a home in Texas differ from New York?
Closings are faster and typically handled without attorneys. Get guidance at 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us

What is the biggest adjustment for Long Islanders moving to Austin?
Summer heat and rapid growth-related traffic are the biggest changes. For relocation prep, reach out via 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us

Is Austin a good long-term place to buy a home?
Yes. Job growth and in-migration continue to support housing demand. For market insight, contact 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us

Eric Berman, REALTOR®
Compass Greater NY
917-225-8596
eric@ericbermanre.com
www.theericbermanteam.com