Expat Housing Guide: Moving to Austin

Housing Market Overview

Austin's housing market is highly competitive, driven by strong tech sector growth, corporate relocations, and steady population influx. Prices have increased significantly over the past decade, though the market has shown some stabilization since 2022. The city offers diverse housing options including single-family homes, condos, apartments, and newer mixed-use developments. Housing stock ranges from historic bungalows in central neighborhoods to modern suburban developments on the periphery. The market has become increasingly international as Austin's global profile has risen, though it maintains a distinctly local character with emphasis on outdoor spaces and sustainable features.

Quick Stats

Housing Score

2.0 /5

Cost of Living

1.0 /5

Avg Rent (2BR)

$1,550-$2,000

Neighborhoods

Estimated Costs

One-Time Costs

$15,750

Monthly Costs

$1,910/mo

Sample Costs

Full Breakdown →

One-Time

Shipping Container $3,500

Furnishing $5,000

Security Deposit $1,700

Monthly

Electricity $120/mo

Water $50/mo

Heating $40/mo

Showing 6 of 39 costs — sign up to see all

Popular Neighborhoods

See All 3 →

Circle C Ranch

Safety 5.0

Schools 5.0

Transport 2.0

2BR: $2,000–$2,900/mo

North Loop

Safety 4.0

Schools 3.0

Transport 4.0

2BR: $2,000–$3,000/mo

Hyde Park

Safety 4.0

Schools 4.0

Transport 4.0

2BR: $2,100–$3,200/mo

Want to See Your Numbers?

Get personalized housing costs, timelines, and checklists for your family in Austin.

Free to start. No credit card required.

Practical Tips

Monitor market trends in North Austin (Wells Branch/Tech Ridge) for apartment availability throughout the year

these areas are influenced by various tech company hiring cycles, leading to fluctuating demand and opportunities

Search for apartments in neighborhoods near UT, like West Campus or North Campus, during summer break

property managers offer better deals when student demand decreases in these specific areas

Request viewings on weekday mornings in Mueller and Domain areas

property managers are less busy and more likely to negotiate terms during these times

Join neighborhood-specific Facebook groups before signing leases in East Austin

locals often post about upcoming construction projects and neighborhood changes that aren't publicly announced yet

Useful Links

Austin Housing Authority

Official housing authority for Austin providing affordable housing resources, Section 8 vouchers, and public housing information.

›

City of Austin Neighborhood Housing

Government department offering affordable housing programs, down payment assistance, and home repair resources for Austin residents.

›

Austin Tenants Council

Nonprofit organization providing education about tenant rights, fair housing laws, and landlord-tenant dispute resolution in Austin.

›

Austin Board of Realtors

Professional association connecting Austin residents with licensed realtors and providing housing market data and resources.

›

Foundation Communities

Nonprofit providing affordable housing with support services for low-income families and individuals in Austin.

›

Explore Other Guides

Immigration Guide Education Guide Healthcare Guide Finance Guide Transport Guide Pets Guide

Housing Guides in the United States

View all 140+ city guides →

Frequently Asked Questions

A 2-bedroom apartment in Austin typically costs between $1,550 and $2,000 per month for expats, depending on the neighborhood.

Circle C Ranch, North Loop, Hyde Park are popular choices for expat families in Austin, offering good safety scores, international schools nearby, and family-friendly amenities.

When relocating to Austin, expect one-time housing costs including a security deposit, real estate agent fees, and moving services. Create a free ReloPlanner account to see a personalized cost breakdown.

Plan Your Entire Move to Austin

Access step-by-step guides, personalized budgets, and expert tips for housing and 6 other relocation categories across 140+ cities.

Free to start. No credit card required.

Data verified: March 2026

This was the general picture

Your move to Austin looks nothing like this

This guide covers Austin for everyone. Your plan covers your origin country, your kids' ages, your budget, your dog — with real costs, a sequenced task list, and the things most families don't find out until it's too late.

Build your personalised plan — free →

Takes 2 minutes to set up