So You’re Austin‑Bound—Now What?
People flock to Austin for the tacos, tech jobs, and trails—but the move can feel like herding cats if you don’t have a plan. Grab this streamlined checklist to keep your relocation headache‑free and your rent dollars working smarter.
Budget first, pick your vibe, lock your apartment early, and line up utilities + movers before traffic on I‑35 gets wild. Here's the detailed plan:
1️⃣ Budget Like a Local (Not a Tourist)
- Rent Rule: Aim to keep monthly rent ≤ 30% of take‑home pay. Studios hover around $1,450, 1‑beds around $1,750, 2‑beds around $2,300 (mid‑2025 averages).
- Hidden Costs: Pet deposits (avg. $300), parking ($50–125), and renter’s insurance ($15/mo).
- Deal Watch: Many South and East Austin complexes run 4–6 weeks free specials—ask before you tour.
2️⃣ Choose Your Neighborhood Vibe
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Area |
Who Loves It |
Quick Facts |
|
Foodies, creatives |
Live music, patio bars, easy bus to downtown |
|
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Families, park walkers |
Farmers market, town center vibe, 10‑min to UT |
|
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Artists, remote workers |
Street murals, craft coffee, bike‑friendly |
|
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Young pros, nightlife fans |
Walk to offices, high‑rise living, premium rents |
Need more detail? Check our South Austin Neighborhood Guide.
3️⃣ Apartment Hunt: Fast‑Track Method
- Narrow must‑haves: Beds, baths, pets, parking.
- Use a free locator (hi!)—skip endless scrolling, get live pricing.
- Tour smart: Go mid‑morning for clearer traffic and natural light pics. Fun fact- we schedule tours for you!
- Apply same day—popular floorplans can vanish by the weekend, so getting that dream unit quickly is key.
Pro tip: Newer builds (post‑2017) often toss in smart‑home packages and bigger gyms.
4️⃣ Paperwork & Proof
- Government‑issued ID + Social Security/Resident Card
- Proof of income (3x rent).
- Rental history or guarantor docs.
- Pet vet records if Fido’s tagging along.
5️⃣ Timeline: 30‑Day Countdown
30 Days Out
- Schedule movers (look for flat‑rate quotes). We can also provide great mover recommendations.
- Transfer or set up utilities (Austin Energy, Texas Gas). We will help with this, too!
- Change address via USPS.
14 Days Out
- Book rental truck if DIY.
- Donate / sell unused furniture.
- Confirm elevator reservations for high‑rises (super important).
Move Week
- Pack day‑one essentials box (change of clothes, toiletries, grab and go snacks).
- Take photos of old apartment condition.
- Pick up keys and gate fobs.
6️⃣ Settle In Like a Pro
- Grocery Staples: H‑E‑B (locals swear by it) or Whole Foods flagship.
- Internet: Google Fiber in many complexes—orders can take 5–7 days.
- DMV: New residents must update license within 90 days—start here: Texas DPS.
- Local Fun: Catch sunset at Mount Bonnell, kayak Lady Bird Lake, or grab brisket at Terry Black’s.
Ready for Austin? We’ll Handle the Apartment Hunt.
Skip the spammy listings. Share your must‑haves and we’ll deliver a curated list of Austin apartments for rent—from studio lofts to lake‑view penthouses.
Tell us what you need → Contact form
Or text 512-994-1200 for instant help.
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