Austin is in a league of its own when it comes to Texas metropolises. A moderate-liberal city in the heart of one of the nation’s most conservative states, the city’s residents have even offered up the idea to secede on more than one occasion. The city’s mantra, “Keep Austin Weird,” is further proof of its unique character. But Austin isn’t just a destination for politically minded youths or eccentrics; the city has something for everyone, from delectable cuisine to world-class performing arts, miles of golf courses, and a booming tech industry. We’ve compiled this list of pros and cons to help you decide whether retiring in Austin is for you.
Outdoor Activities
The Lonestar State isn’t known for its greenery. Much of the state is dry and dusty. However, coastal areas, including Austin and the Gulf Coast, are different. Austin has several lakes and rivers, and more than 250 parks. It’s a perfect place for active seniors to swim, hike, kayak, bike, walk, and spend a day outdoors. There’s also the Austin Golf Trail, which includes a broad selection of courses designed by famous golf architects. Like much of the Southwest, watering holes in Austin are gathering spots where people flock for a refreshing escape during sweltering summer days. You can also venture about three-and-a-half hours outside the city to Galveston or Padre for a day at the beach on the Gulf Coast shores.
Hot, Long Summers
It’s no secret that many seniors go south to escape the harsh, cold winters in the northern and Midwestern states. Like Arizona, Texas is a hotspot in more ways than one. Many who choose to retire in Austin are attracted by its warm climate. Not only is the weather warm, but summer lasts from about April to November. This is ideal for people with arthritis or sensitivity to cold. However, during the middle of summer, temperatures often climb to the triple digits. Most buildings and homes in the area are equipped with AC, offering some respite. But if you can’t stand the heat, it’s probably not the place for you. Winters are relatively mild compared to northern regions, and there’s typically little to no snow. However, during hurricane season, Austin can be inundated with heavy rainfall of 10 inches or more per day in severe conditions.
Entertainment & Social Events
Austin is known as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” an arts and culture mecca home to popular arts and cultural events such as the annual South by Southwest Conference & Festivals. There are also renowned symphonies, operas, theaters, and other performing and visual arts venues and companies that rank above the national average. Creative types should have no trouble finding something to do or see at any time of the year.
For the most part, Texas subscribes to the philosophy of Southern Hospitality. People tend to be warm and friendly. Austin is also a great spot for single seniors, with plenty of groups and meet-up opportunities.
Traffic & Transportation
Austin has some of the worst traffic in the nation, comparable to that of Los Angeles or New York City. Unless you live in the downtown area, where buses are easily accessible, you’ll need a car to get around. Austin proper isn’t very walkable outside the downtown area and a 10- to 15-mile commute can easily take an hour or more during rush hour.
Economy
Austin is rather expensive, with an average rental price of $1,612 as of April 2023, and an average home price of $500,000. Surrounding suburbs such as Round Rock, Georgetown, and San Marcos are more affordable than Austin proper. Each of these communities has retirement communities, although the Kissing Tree community in San Marcos is one of the most sought-after in the area.
Despite its high cost of living, Austin has a reasonable tax climate for seniors. Retirees pay no personal or corporate income tax and enjoy low state and local tax rates. Plus, Texas doesn’t tax retirement income, meaning retirees can stretch their dollars a bit further. Austin’s economy continues to grow, despite economic headwinds. It’s one of the performing cities, with job growth up roughly 4.2% so far this year. This means more opportunities for semi-retired seniors looking for work.
Published April 5, 2023
