Moving to Austin from Los Angeles: What to Know Before You Buy
Quick answer: Moving to Austin from Los Angeles usually means more space, shorter drives and a slower daily pace, along with higher property taxes and no state income tax. The buyers who are happiest here spend time in a few neighborhoods first and budget around the full monthly payment, not just the price.
Jenny's take: I moved to Austin from LA in 2015 for a tech job, and I wasn't expecting my whole lifestyle to change for the better. There was less traffic, and parking didn't stress me out. People were genuinely nice. I could explore a different part of the city without it feeling like I'd spent the whole day traveling. In LA, getting across town was a commitment. Here, it's a short drive.
What surprised me most after LA
The biggest change wasn't the house. It was the time I got back.
- Shorter drives. Most trips across Central Austin take a fraction of what crossing LA does. That makes it easy to try a new restaurant in East Austin on a Tuesday or get to Barton Springs after work.
- The people. Neighbors say hello, and small businesses remember you. It still feels like a big small town.
- Easy exploring. Lady Bird Lake, South Congress, Zilker Park and the Hill Country are all close, so weekends feel like time off instead of time in the car.
What LA buyers usually get wrong
I work with a lot of clients relocating from Los Angeles and across California, and the same three s come up.
- Comparing price per square foot to LA. Austin homes can look like a bargain next to LA prices. But Texas has no Prop 13, so property taxes are based on the home's current value and are a much bigger part of the monthly payment. Homeowners insurance can also cost more than you're used to. There is no state income tax, which helps balance it out, but run the full numbers before you fall in love with a list price.
- Missing MUD and PID taxes. Some newer suburbs are in special districts that add their own tax to fund roads, water and utilities. Two homes at the same price can have very different monthly costs, so ask about the total tax rate for every home you consider.
- Trying to buy in one weekend. Austin neighborhoods change block by block. A home that looks perfect online may be on a busy road or a long drive from where you'll spend your week. Seeing a few areas in person makes the decision much easier.
Where LA buyers tend to look
Every client is different, but these parts of Austin come up often with buyers moving from Los Angeles.
Austin area | Feels like in LA | What it's like |
|---|---|---|
Silver Lake and Echo Park | Older bungalows next to newer modern homes, close to downtown, with independent restaurants, coffee shops and bars | |
Tarrytown | Beverly Hills | Established, tree-lined streets with larger homes, close to downtown and Lake Austin |
Venice or Santa Monica | Bouldin Creek, Travis Heights and Zilker, near South Congress, Lady Bird Lake and Barton Springs | |
Mueller | Playa Vista | A planned neighborhood on the former Robert Mueller airport site, with parks, a lake and a mix of homes, townhomes and condos |
Pasadena | Established neighborhoods like Allandale and Rosedale, with mature trees and mid-century homes | |
Westlake | Palos Verdes | Hills, larger lots and views, just west of downtown across Lady Bird Lake |
For a deeper look at each part of town, see the June & Co neighborhood guides and the Moving to Austin guide.
How to plan your move
- Spend a few long weekends here first. Stay in a different part of town each time. You'll feel the difference quickly.
- Pick your area around your daily life. Map out work, school and the places you'll go every week. Getting around is easier than in LA, but location still matters.
- Budget on the full monthly payment. Include property taxes, insurance and any HOA, MUD or PID fees, not just the mortgage.
- File your homestead exemption. Once you own and live in your Austin home, a Texas homestead exemption can lower your property tax bill. It's one of the first things I remind clients about after closing.
- Work with someone who's made the same move. I know what you're comparing Austin to, and I can help you find the parts of the city that fit how you want to live. Our Buyer's Guide walks through each step.
Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to live in Austin than Los Angeles? For most people, yes. Home prices are generally lower and there is no state income tax. Property taxes and insurance are higher, though, so compare the full monthly cost of a home, not just the purchase price.
What is the best Austin neighborhood for someone moving from LA? It depends on how you want to live. If you love Silver Lake or Echo Park, start with East Austin. If Beverly Hills is more your speed, look at Tarrytown. Those who want to be near the water and trails look at South Austin, and those who want more space often look at West Austin. Spending time in each is the best way to decide.
How long does it take to buy a home in Austin from out of state? Many out-of-state buyers do a first visit to narrow down neighborhoods, then make an offer on a second trip or virtually. Talk with an agent early so you can line up a lender and a plan before you arrive.
Do I need an Austin realtor if I'm relocating from California? A local agent helps you understand neighborhoods block by block, explains Texas property taxes and special districts, and can tour homes for you when you can't be here. Working with someone who has made the same move makes it easier to compare.
Thinking about moving from LA?
I'd love to help you find the part of Austin that fits your life. Schedule a consultation with Jenny, or call (512) 971-0299.
About the author. Jenny Kim leads June & Co Residential Group at eXp Realty in Austin. A former tech startup growth and marketing leader who moved from LA, she represented $25M+ in 2025, with 85% of her business from repeat clients and referrals. She has been named one of Austin Magazine's Best Real Estate Agents and a Real Producers Top 500 Agent.
