Why More New Yorkers Are Choosing Austin in 2025—and What You Should Know Before You Do

Robert Rutkowski
Apr 15
6 min read

Updated: Apr 17

If you're contemplating a move from New York City to Austin, Texas, you're not alone. Over the past few years, a growing number of New Yorkers have packed up their lives in the Big Apple in search of something different—something warmer, less expensive, and more laid-back. That “something” often leads them straight to the heart of Texas.

But Austin isn’t just a trendy relocation spot—it’s a city with its own culture, economy, and way of life. Whether you're looking to buy your first home, reduce your monthly expenses, or embrace a lifestyle with more room to breathe, understanding the real differences between NYC and Austin is crucial. Here’s what the move really looks like in 2025—what you’ll gain, and what you’ll leave behind.

Housing: More Space, Modern Amenities, and a Breath of Fresh Air

One of the biggest drivers behind the move is housing. In New York City, real estate is often defined by compromise—compact apartments, sky-high rents, and bidding wars for even modest spaces. The median home price hovers around $750,000, and renting a two-bedroom apartment in popular boroughs like Manhattan or Brooklyn can easily run between $4,000 and $6,000 a month.

Now imagine this: you arrive in Austin, and for half the price, you're touring homes with open-concept kitchens, private backyards, and garages. The median home price in Austin as of 2025 falls between $470,000 and $520,000. Rental prices for a similar two-bedroom apartment range from $2,000 to $3,000 per month—sometimes less in up-and-coming neighborhoods.

And the perks don’t stop at affordability. New construction is booming, which means many homes come equipped with energy-efficient features, smart home systems, and community amenities like parks, trails, and pools. For families, remote workers, or anyone just tired of vertical living, the transition can feel like an upgrade in every direction.

However, it's not all upside. Texas is known for its high property taxes—usually between 2% to 3% of a home’s assessed value. That can surprise newcomers used to NYC’s lower property tax rates. Still, even after calculating the taxes, most transplants find themselves paying significantly less overall.

Everyday Costs: A Welcome Break for Your Wallet

In day-to-day life, the difference in cost is something you'll feel quickly. Grocery shopping, for example, is notably less expensive in Austin. Thanks to regional chains like H-E-B, you’ll find lower prices on everything from produce to household goods—plus a more relaxed, customer-focused shopping experience than many crowded NYC supermarkets.

Gas is another budget-friendly area. With prices typically ranging between $3.00 and $3.80 per gallon in Austin, driving is far more affordable than in NYC, where gas often sits between $4.00 and $5.00 per gallon. And since most Austinites own cars, you’re not paying through the nose for parking garages or taxis.

Dining is a bit of a toss-up, depending on your tastes. While nothing quite compares to the culinary range and prestige of NYC—from Michelin-starred establishments to global street food—Austin offers its own delicious scene. From high-end barbecue joints and upscale tacos to local food trucks and farm-to-table cafes, you'll find plenty of tasty options without breaking the bank. Most nights out in Austin cost less, and you’ll rarely wait in line or feel rushed out of your seat.

Taxes: Texas Comes Out Ahead—Mostly

When it comes to taxes, Texas clearly has a financial edge—at least in some key areas. Most significantly, Texas has no state income tax. Compare that with New York, where state and city income taxes can climb up to 12.7% for higher earners, and the savings alone might justify your move.

Sales tax in Austin is slightly lower than NYC’s, with a combined rate that tops out around 8.25% compared to NYC’s 8.875%. That’s not a massive difference, but every little bit helps—especially for families or small business owners who are spending more across the board.

Where Texas does reclaim some of those savings is in property taxes. As mentioned earlier, the annual cost of homeownership in Austin can be higher due to those steeper local rates. Still, most former New Yorkers find the trade-off worth it for the larger living space, lower home prices, and lack of income tax.

Healthcare: Affordable, but Not Identical

Healthcare access is another area worth weighing carefully. In New York City, world-renowned hospitals like Mount Sinai, NYU Langone, and Columbia-Presbyterian offer a deep bench of specialists and cutting-edge treatments. If you live with chronic conditions or have a complicated medical history, that kind of access can be a big deal.

Austin’s healthcare network is expanding quickly and includes reputable systems like Ascension Seton, St. David’s HealthCare, and Baylor Scott & White. While routine and emergency care are widely available, you might have to wait longer or travel farther to see certain specialists.

That said, many newcomers find healthcare more affordable in Austin. Insurance premiums, copays, and out-of-pocket costs tend to be lower, especially if you compare employer-sponsored plans. As with any move, it’s wise to research local providers and make sure your health insurance travels well with you.

Transportation: From Subways to Steering Wheels

Perhaps one of the biggest adjustments for New Yorkers moving to Austin is transportation. NYC’s MTA system, for all its flaws, makes car-free living possible. Trains run 24/7, buses are plentiful, and taxis and rideshares are always just a few taps away.

Austin’s public transportation system, run by CapMetro, is improving, but it’s nowhere near as robust. There’s a light rail line, a growing network of buses, and some park-and-ride options—but most residents rely on their personal vehicles for daily commuting.

The good news? Driving in Austin is relatively easy. Traffic can get heavy during peak hours, but it’s a far cry from the gridlock of NYC. Parking is plentiful in most neighborhoods, and maintenance, insurance, and fuel costs are all more manageable.

If you're used to walking everywhere, the change might take some getting used to. But for many families and remote workers, the freedom and flexibility of car ownership is part of what makes life in Austin more enjoyable.

Schools, Universities, and Learning Opportunities

For parents, students, or lifelong learners, the educational landscape is another key consideration. NYC offers a vast network of public, private, and charter schools, with both gems and challenges spread throughout the five boroughs. Austin’s school system, while smaller, includes several top-rated districts such as Eanes ISD, Leander ISD, and Round Rock ISD, particularly in suburban communities.

Higher education is strong in both cities. NYC is home to prestigious names like Columbia University and NYU. Austin proudly hosts the University of Texas at Austin, one of the top public universities in the country, offering standout programs in business, engineering, law, and liberal arts.

Whether you have young kids or are thinking about going back to school yourself, both cities offer solid options. Austin may provide more accessible, less competitive pathways, especially in growing suburban areas.

Lifestyle and Culture: From 24/7 to Laid-Back

NYC’s culture is legendary. Art, theater, fashion, food, nightlife—there’s always something happening, and always someone doing it bigger, faster, or bolder than the rest. It’s energizing, inspiring, and often overwhelming.

Austin moves at a different pace. It’s proudly weird, deeply musical, and refreshingly casual. You’re more likely to find flip-flops than Ferragamos, and live music more than late-night clubs. Nature lovers can explore lakes, trails, and greenbelts within city limits. Foodies, musicians, entrepreneurs, and artists find a supportive, tight-knit scene that values creativity and community.

Austin may not replace New York’s world-class museums or international theater district—but it offers a high quality of life and a more grounded, balanced way of living. And yes, the people are genuinely friendly.

Final Thoughts: Is Austin Right for You?

Relocating from New York City to Austin isn’t just a change in zip code—it’s a shift in lifestyle, finances, pace, and priorities. You'll likely gain more space, lower expenses, and a sunnier climate. But you’ll also need to adapt to a car-centric city, a smaller cultural footprint, and a different rhythm of life.

If you're still wondering whether Austin is the right move for you in 2025, I’d be happy to help. As a real estate agent who specializes in relocation—particularly for families and professionals coming from NYC and California—I can help you explore the best neighborhoods, schools, investment opportunities, and more.

Let’s make your move not just easier—but smarter, too. Reach out today, and let’s start building your next chapter in Austin.