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Thinking about moving to Austin, Texas? You’re not alone — known for its vibrant culture, booming job market, and unbeatable quality of life, Austin is one of the fastest-growing cities in the country. Whether you’re an artist, musician, student, young professional, or simply someone who wants to live affordably while soaking up the city’s unique vibe, Austin has a neighborhood for you.
And if you’re searching for a community that embraces art, music, and individuality, look no further than The Metropolis Apartments in Southeast Austin. A legendary local landmark known for its bold personality and creative energy, The Met has long been part of the city’s offbeat, expressive spirit. We put together this comprehensive guide to moving to Austin to help you find your place in a city that celebrates uniqueness — just like we do.
Austin has become one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S. and consistently ranks among the best places to live and relocate in the nation. The city’s population has surged in recent years, thanks to its dynamic job market, world-class entertainment, and a strong sense of community.
If you love live music, delicious food, and a lively nightlife, you’ll fit right in. Austin is also home to beautiful parks, a thriving arts scene, and a commitment to sustainability that’s reflected in its green spaces and bike-friendly streets.
Austin lives up to its reputation as the Live Music Capital of the World, with live performances happening just about everywhere — apartment complexes (like at The Met, which has its own stage for live shows), grocery stores, street corners, and of course, countless live music venues and festivals. Iconic events like South by Southwest (SXSW) and Austin City Limits (ACL) showcase the city’s deep connection to music, creativity, and community.
Our staff and residents at The Met love playing music and catching live shows. Some of our favorite spots for live music in Austin include:
According to a study done by SmartAsset, Austin has one of the strongest job markets in the country, making it a great place to move in terms of employment opportunities. Nicknamed Silicon Hills, the tech industry is huge here and is home to both large companies and smaller startups.
Notable tech companies that are a big part of Austin’s tech sector include:
But it’s not just about tech. Healthcare, education, government, manufacturing, and creative industries also offer strong employment opportunities, making Austin an attractive destination for professionals from all fields.
From smoky barbecue joints to innovative food trucks and globally inspired restaurants, Austin’s food scene is as diverse as its people. Whether you're craving Tex-Mex, Asian fusion, vegan fare, or fine dining, you’ll find it here — and likely within walking distance of a great live show or local brewery.
Our foodies at The Met love to eat at:
Austin’s natural beauty and commitment to outdoor living make it a playground for nature lovers. Paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake, hiking along the Barton Creek Greenbelt, or taking a dip in Barton Springs Pool are just a few favorite local outdoor activities. The city’s green spaces and sunny climate make it easy to enjoy the outdoors year-round.
At The Met, we love to hang by the Club Met pool and the new outdoor lounge and activities area. When we’re not at the pool, we enjoy taking walks on the Anne and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail, going to Secret Beach, or spending time at McKinney Falls State Park.
What truly sets Austin apart is its people. The city has a reputation for being welcoming, inclusive, and just the right amount of quirky. From the laid-back attitude to the “Keep Austin Weird” spirit, you’ll find a community here that’s proud of its individuality and excited to welcome newcomers. Plus, the city is very dog friendly, and you’ll find that you can take your furry friend just about anywhere.
Austin’s diverse neighborhoods each have their own personality to suit every lifestyle. When choosing a neighborhood, remember to consider things like your budget, proximity to work or school, safety, and local amenities.
Southeast Austin is an up-and-coming neighborhood with a lot to offer. It provides quick access to the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, major highways, and downtown, all without the high price tag of other areas. The neighborhood is growing rapidly and offers a mix of residential, retail, and green spaces.
The Metropolis Apartments in Southeast Austin, located near East Riverside Drive, offer an affordable, community-focused living option in the heart of this rising neighborhood. At The Met, we love exploring some of the area's hidden gems that are just minutes away, like catching a show at Radio East, enjoying a laid-back drink at The Little Darlin’, or soaking in skyline views at Sky Lounge on Lady Bird.
Downtown is Austin’s energetic urban core, filled with high-rise condos, nightlife on Sixth Street and Rainey Street, restaurants, and easy access to the city's cultural and business hubs. It’s perfect for professionals, creatives, and anyone who wants to be in the middle of it all.
Residents enjoy being steps away from world-class entertainment, top employers, and a fast-paced lifestyle. With Lady Bird Lake and the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail nearby, you don’t have to go far to enjoy nature either. Just be prepared for higher rent prices and limited parking.
Central Austin includes neighborhoods like Hyde Park, West Campus, and Clarksville. It’s a great area for students, young professionals, and long-time residents alike, with its historic homes, leafy streets, and proximity to the University of Texas campus. The vibe here is intellectual, eclectic, and highly walkable, with plenty of coffee shops, vintage stores, and local eats.
A mix of rental homes, apartments, and charming bungalows, this area provides easy access to downtown while offering the comfort of a small community. Expect a strong sense of neighborhood pride and lots of local character.
North Austin includes neighborhoods like The Domain, Wells Branch, and Anderson Mill. It’s a popular area for tech professionals due to its proximity to major employers and offers a good balance of suburban and urban amenities.
With a variety of housing options from apartments to single-family homes, North Austin tends to be more affordable than downtown. The quiet residential pockets and access to good schools make this area ideal for families.
South Austin is known for its eclectic spirit, especially along South Congress (SoCo), where funky homes, vintage shops, food trucks, and live music converge. It’s a lively, walkable part of town that blends old-school Austin charm with modern development.
This area has a fun, youthful vibe and draws creatives, musicians, and long-time locals alike. You’ll find a wide range of housing—from cozy cottages to modern condos—and plenty of green space at places like Zilker Park. South Austin strikes a balance between the city’s weird roots and its current growth.
Trendy and artistic, East Austin is known for its murals, indie coffee shops, and cultural diversity. This area has seen rapid growth in recent years, making it a hotspot for young professionals and creatives.
East Austin blends new and old — modern townhomes and renovated bungalows sit next to historic homes and long-standing local businesses. The community is vibrant and engaged, and while the cost of living has increased, many are drawn here for the lifestyle, nightlife, and deep cultural roots.
West Austin is more residential and upscale, with scenic views of the Hill Country, top-rated schools, and beautiful homes. It’s ideal for families and those looking for a quieter, more suburban feel.
Here you’ll find sprawling estates, peaceful streets, and easy access to outdoor activities like boating on Lake Austin or hiking in the Wild Basin Preserve. West Austin also boasts some of the best public and private schools in the area, making it a favorite for families who prioritize education and space.
Moving to such a lively, unique city is exciting, but there are a few things to consider before making the big move.
According to Payscale, Austin’s overall cost of living is 3% lower than the national average, making it more affordable than cities like San Francisco or New York. However, housing prices in Austin have climbed significantly. With a competitive market, rent and home prices are high, particularly in the West, Central, and Downtown neighborhoods, as well as some of South Austin.
But there are still plenty of affordable housing options out there — like The Metropolis Apartments in Southeast Austin. Located just minutes from downtown, The Met is a home for artists, musicians, service industry workers, students, young professionals, and anyone looking to live affordably in Austin all while being at the heart of everything the city has to offer.
Austin’s public transit system (CapMetro) is limited, so most residents rely on cars. That said, bike lanes, scooters, and rideshares are popular, especially downtown. If you’re commuting, consider traffic patterns — rush hour can get congested on major roads like I-35 and MoPac — so choose a neighborhood that is close to work or school.
Austin has a warm, sunny climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summers can be intense, with highs often over 100°F, so having good A/C is a must. On the plus side, the weather makes outdoor activities possible year-round.
Moving to a new city can be overwhelming, so here are some things to remember as you plan your move:
If you’re moving to Austin, TX, and are looking for an affordable, well-located apartment community, The Metropolis Apartments in Austin’s East Riverside neighborhood, should be at the top of your list.
Located just 2.5 miles from downtown, The Met is perfect for artists, musicians, students, and anyone who wants to be part of a vibrant, creative community. The complex features spacious floor plans and numerous community amenities like an outdoor stage for live performances, a resort-style pool, hot tub, gym, dog park, and plenty of resident events. With easy access to public transportation, shopping, and local eateries, The Met puts you right in the heart of Austin’s energy.
Ready to make your move? Apply today to make The Metropolis Apartments your new home in Austin
