What to Expect when Moving to Austin from Chicago

Thinking of trading deep dish for BBQ? Here’s what you need to know about moving from Chicago to Austin:

• Weather: Brace for hot summers (100°F+) but enjoy year-round outdoor activities
• Cost: Austin’s pricier, especially housing ($527K vs $299K median home price)
• Jobs: Booming tech scene (“Silicon Hills”)
• Transport: You’ll likely need a car (83% of people drive)
• Culture: Laid-back, outdoor-loving, and “weird” in a good way
• Social: Friendly folks, but it might take time to build your circle

Key differences:

Weather Changes

Trading Chicago’s icy winters for Austin’s sizzling summers? Let’s break down what this climate shift really means for you.

Heat and Humidity

Brace yourself for a temperature jump. Chicago’s summer highs usually hang out in the 80s°F. But Austin? It’s a whole different ballgame:

• Summer highs in Austin hit 98°F (37°C) on average
• Even at night, it only cools down to about 75°F (24°C)

But it’s not just about the numbers. Austin’s humidity can make those hot days feel like you’re wrapped in a warm, wet blanket.

“Summers are hot. If you’re from a humid area and think ‘Oh it’s a dry heat’ you’re in for a rude awakening. We have just enough humidity mixed in with the raw heat to make it pretty miserable.” – Alek, Austin resident

To put it in perspective, Austin’s average temp is a whopping 10.3°C higher than Chicago’s (21.3°C vs. 11°C). That’s not just a number – it’s a difference you’ll feel every day.

Weather Risks

Say goodbye to Chicago’s snowstorms, but hello to Austin’s own weather challenges:

1. Extreme Heat

Austin’s summers can be brutal. In 2022, the city hit a record-breaking 110°F (43.3°C). Be ready for heat advisories and plan your outdoor time wisely.

2. Severe Thunderstorms

These bad boys are more common in Austin, especially in spring and early summer. Think heavy rain, strong winds, and sometimes hail.

3. Tornadoes

While not as frequent as in some parts of Texas, Austin’s tornado risk is higher than Chicago’s. The city’s Tornado Index is 224.37, way above the U.S. average of 136.45.

4. Flash Floods

Austin’s landscape makes it prone to sudden flooding. Between 1950 and 2010, the area saw 638 flood events.

Here’s a quick look at Austin’s weather events:

Sounds scary? Don’t worry too much. Austin’s climate still lets you enjoy outdoor activities year-round. Just be smart about beating the heat and staying safe when the weather acts up.

“Austin’s climate is a stark contrast to Chicago’s, with its hot summers and mild winters.” – Climate expert, Weather Analysis Group

To make your move smoother:

• Stock up on breathable clothes
• Drink water like it’s your job, especially in summer
• Save outdoor fun for cooler parts of the day
• Keep an eye on weather alerts and have a “just in case” plan

Welcome to Austin – where the weather’s hot and the living’s… well, also hot. But hey, at least you won’t need that snow shovel anymore!

Living Costs

Moving from Chicago to Austin? Your wallet’s in for a ride. Let’s break down the financial differences:

Housing Prices

Good news: your housing costs might drop. Austin offers more space for your dollar:

• Median home price in Austin: $527,000
• Median home price in Chicago: $299,000

But hold up. Rent tells a different story:

• Average rent in Austin (all property types): $2,061
• Average rent in Chicago (1-bedroom, city center): $2,360.96

Ryan Rodenbeck, a local real estate expert, says:

“Austin’s housing market is competitive, but compared to Chicago, you’re getting more space and often newer construction for your money.”

Monthly Bills

Utility bills? A small win:

• Basic utilities in Austin (915 sq ft apartment): $175.70
• Same utilities in Chicago: $165.59

Internet costs? Not so much:

• Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) in Austin: $70.43
• Same package in Chicago: $58.52

But transportation costs? That’s where you’ll save big:

• Monthly pass for local transport in Austin: $45
• Same pass in Chicago: $75

That’s a 66.7% jump in Chicago!

Cost Comparison

Let’s put it all together:

Bottom line? Chicago’s 19.5% pricier than Austin (excluding rent). With rent? Still 12.2% more expensive.

But here’s the kicker: your money goes further in Austin. You’ll have about 16.4% more buying power compared to Chicago.

Alexander Concepcion from Taco Street Locating suggests:

“When relocating to Austin, consider areas like North Austin or South Austin for a balance of affordability and lifestyle. These neighborhoods often offer better value for money compared to downtown, without sacrificing the Austin experience.”

So, ready to trade deep-dish pizza for BBQ? Your wallet might thank you.

Daily Life

Moving from Chicago to Austin? Get ready for a whole new vibe. Here’s what your day-to-day might look like in Texas’s capital.

Social Life

Austin’s not just friendly – it’s a social butterfly’s dream. Most folks here are newcomers too, so you’ll fit right in.

Want to make friends? Try these:

• Join the East Side Beer Runners. Sweat it out, then cool down with a brew.
• Dive into a good book (and maybe meet the author) with the Austin360 Book Club.
• Got a furry friend? Head to Auditorium Shores Off-Leash Dog Park. Your pup might make a new buddy too.

“Everyone’s been the ‘new guy’ before, so they’re super welcoming to newcomers.” – Brett Hayden, Author

Tip: Don’t knock Bumble BFF until you’ve tried it. It’s big in Austin and could land you some cool new pals.

Food and Fun

Foodies, rejoice! Austin’s food scene is hot (and we’re not just talking about the spices). It even outranks Chicago, coming in at No. 14 on WalletHub’s best foodie cities list.

Love food trucks? You’re in luck. Austin’s got over 1,000 of them, ranking No. 3 in Food & Wine’s “10 Best Food Truck Cities in the U.S.” Check out the Thicket South Austin Food Park for a taste of everything.

As for sit-down spots:

• Birdie’s in East Austin serves up simple but fancy eats in a buzzing atmosphere.
• Canje brings Caribbean flavors with a Guyanese twist.

“The food is a tangy, spicy, coconutty dreamscape. Tilefish soaked in tamarind and rum butter. Prawns brushed with a verdant green seasoning and smoked chiles.” – Priya Krishna, Food Writer

When you’re not eating, try:

• Hiking at Barton Creek Greenbelt or St. Edwards Park.
• Getting your history fix at the Bullock State History Museum or LBJ Library.
• Catching iconic events like SXSW or Austin City Limits.

City Differences

Switching from Chicago to Austin? Here’s what to expect:

1. Weather

Brace yourself for hotter summers. Austin’s average high is 11.5°C above Chicago’s.

2. Getting Around

Austin’s more car-friendly than transit-heavy. Monthly public transport passes are cheaper ($41.25 vs Chicago’s $105.00), but you might not use them as much.

3. Safety

Austin’s pretty safe. No real “no-go” areas to worry about.

4. Cost of Living

Houses might cost more, but other stuff can be cheaper:

5. Space

Austin feels roomier with 3,300 people/km² compared to Chicago’s 4,447 people/km².

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Finding a Home

Looking for your perfect spot in Austin? Let’s explore how to find your new home in Texas’ capital.

Working with Taco Street Locating

Taco Street Locating makes apartment hunting in Austin a breeze. This free service, founded by Alexander Concepcion, offers:

• One-on-one consultations
• Custom research spreadsheets
• Guided apartment tours
• Help with applications

And guess what? It won’t cost you a dime. Taco Street Locating gets paid by landlords, not renters.

“Finding an apartment in Austin can be tricky. The size of the city, plethora of neighborhoods, and the number of listings can quickly become overwhelming.” – Landing

With their local know-how, Taco Street Locating can help you find a place that fits your lifestyle and budget in Austin’s diverse neighborhoods.

Getting to Know Areas

Austin’s neighborhoods are like a box of chocolates – each one’s unique. Here’s how to find your flavor:

Start by browsing real estate websites to get a feel for different areas and prices. Then, hit the streets. Spend time in potential neighborhoods at different hours. Think about what matters to you – work commute, nearby amenities, your favorite hangouts.

Don’t forget to check out the suburbs. North Austin or South Austin might give you more bang for your buck without losing that Austin vibe.

Pro tip: Start your search about two months before you plan to move. Austin’s rental market moves fast, and you don’t want to end up scrambling at the last minute.

Rental Tips

Ready to dive into Austin’s rental market? Keep these points in mind:

1. Budget wisely

Try to keep your rent at 30% or less of your income. In Austin, you’re looking at about $1,345/month for a one-bedroom apartment on average.

2. Location matters

Rent prices in Austin can vary a lot depending on where you’re looking:

3. Be prepared

Have your paperwork ready to go – income proof, references, credit report. You don’t want to miss out on your dream apartment because you’re scrambling for documents.

4. Consider furnished options

Services like Landing offer furnished apartments with flexible leases. It’s a great way to test-drive different neighborhoods before settling down.

5. Timing is key

Austin’s rental market can get competitive. When you find a place you like, be ready to jump on it.

“The Austin metropolitan area is dynamic and rapidly changing; the best way to get the most up-to-date information and forecast about pricing in an area is to consult a Realtor.” – Pauly Presley Realty

Happy house hunting!

Moving Steps

Trading deep dish for BBQ? Let’s break down your Chicago-to-Austin move.

Moving Options

You’ve got three main ways to transport your stuff:

1. Professional Movers

Hands-off approach. Companies like Born to Move offer dedicated trucks and quick delivery. They estimate:

• 2-day move from Chicago to Austin
• Prices: $5,500 (1-bedroom) to $7,500+ (3-bedroom)

2. DIY Truck Rental

Up for an adventure? Renting a truck could save you cash. U-Haul or Budget Truck Rental typically cost:

• $1,082 to $1,708 for Chicago-Austin
• Price varies based on home size

3. Moving Containers

Middle ground option. Companies like PODS drop off a container, you pack, they transport. Prices:

• $1,797 to $3,415
• Based on home size

“Moving isn’t just about boxing up your life; it’s also about numbers.” – Ryan Rodenbeck, Author

When to Move: Mid-week and mid-month for better rates. Avoid summer (May to September) if possible.

Paperwork Checklist

Don’t let the paperwork slip. Here’s what to update:

• Driver’s License: Get a Texas license within 90 days
• Vehicle Registration: Register within 30 days of moving
• Voter Registration: Update 30+ days before an election
• Address Change: File with USPS 2+ weeks before moving
• Utilities: Set up electricity, water, and internet in Austin
• Bank Accounts: Update your address

Pro Tip: Create a digital folder for all your moving docs. Future you will thank you.

Moving Costs

Here’s a breakdown for the 1,163-mile Chicago to Austin journey:

These are estimates. Your actual costs may vary based on move date, services, and specific locations.

Insider Tip: Some companies offer free estimates. Use this to get a clearer picture of your moving costs.

“The process involved in moving to Austin from Chicago doesn’t have to be a hassle, and we’ll make sure it is not.” – Stark Moving Company

Settling In

Just moved to Austin from Chicago? Get ready for a Texas-sized welcome. Here’s how to feel at home in the Lone Star State’s capital.

Meeting People

Austin’s friendly vibe makes it easy to build your social circle. Try these ways to connect:

Join Meetup Groups

Austin’s Meetup scene is hopping. Into hiking, salsa dancing, or tech talks? There’s a group for you.

“Austin Food and Wine Lovers lets foodies explore local spots while meeting new people.” – Local Food Critic

Volunteer

Give back and make friends at the same time. United Way for Greater Austin engages thousands of volunteers each year. It’s good for your social life and the community.

Get Active

No squad? No problem. The Austin Sports and Social Club organizes team sports. It’s a great way to stay fit and meet other sports fans.

Attend Local Events

From SXSW to Austin City Limits, the city’s calendar is packed. Don’t skip the smaller neighborhood events – they’re perfect for meeting locals.

Local Habits

Here’s what to expect in Austin:

• Outdoor Living: Austinites love their green spaces. You’ll see locals hanging out at Zilker Park or swimming in Barton Springs Pool.
• Food Truck Frenzy: Forget fancy restaurants. In Austin, some of the best meals come from food trucks. The city has over 1,000 of them!
• Live Music Everywhere: It’s the “Live Music Capital of the World” for a reason. You’ll hear tunes coming from venues, bars, and even grocery stores.
• Keep Austin Weird: This isn’t just a slogan; it’s a way of life. Embrace the quirky – it’s what makes Austin, Austin.

City Customs

Chicago and Austin are both lively cities, but there are some key differences:

In Austin:

• Small talk is big: Austinites love to chat, even with strangers. Your grocery run might turn into a friendly conversation.
• “Y’all” is for everyone: This Southern word isn’t just for groups – it’s used for everyone.
• Dress code is casual: Unless it’s a fancy event, keep it relaxed. Flip-flops are almost formal wear here.

“Austin’s chill vibe and focus on work-life balance attract people looking for a change from typical city life.” – Local Lifestyle Blogger

Settling into Austin takes time, but with its welcoming community and vibrant culture, you’ll soon feel at home. Everyone’s been the “new person” at some point – so put yourself out there. Before you know it, you’ll be showing other newcomers the ropes of life in Austin.

Conclusion

Moving from Chicago to Austin? It’s a big change. Here’s what you need to know:

Weather: Get ready for hot summers. We’re talking 100°F (37.8°C) hot. But hey, you can enjoy outdoor activities all year round. Just be prepared for more humidity.

Cost of Living: Austin’s pricier than Chicago, especially for housing. The median home in Austin costs $527,000, compared to $299,000 in Chicago. But there’s no state income tax, so that’s a plus.

Jobs: Austin’s tech scene is booming. They call it “Silicon Hills” for a reason. The economy’s strong too – local GDP grew 8.7% from 2015 to 2020.

Getting Around: In Austin, you’ll probably need a car. About 83% of people here drive. There’s a bus and rail system, but it’s not as extensive as Chicago’s.

Culture: Austin’s all about keeping it weird. Expect great music, food trucks galore, and tons of festivals. It’s a laid-back, outdoor-loving kind of place.

Making Friends: It might take time, but Austinites are friendly. Join a club, hit up community events, or volunteer to meet people.

Give yourself time to settle in. Explore different neighborhoods. Dive into Austin’s unique vibe. With some planning and an open mind, you’ll be calling Austin home before you know it.

FAQs

Is it cheaper to live in Austin or Chicago?

Austin is generally easier on the wallet than Chicago. Here’s the scoop:

Austin comes out ahead in most areas. You’d need about $6,765 in Austin to match what $7,600 gets you in Chicago (if you’re renting in both cities).

Housing? Austin’s market is hot, but still more budget-friendly. The median home price in Austin sits at $527,000, while Chicago’s is $299,000.

Hungry? Austin’s got you covered. A meal at a no-frills restaurant in Austin will set you back about $18, compared to $25 in Chicago.

Getting around? Austin wins again. A monthly public transport pass in Austin costs $45, but you’ll shell out $75 in Chicago.

Utilities are a close call. For a 915 sq ft apartment, you’re looking at $175.70 in Austin, just a tad more than Chicago’s $165.59.

Alexander Concepcion, founder of Taco Street Locating, puts it this way: “Austin’s cost of living is about 11% lower than Chicago’s, but don’t forget to factor in your specific lifestyle and needs when crunching the numbers.”