Anonymous wrote:It’s really hard to define the suburbs in Austin, given the true downtown is quite small and many very suburban areas are still within the city’s limits.
To the PP considering moving to Austin. We recently moved back east (Texas is not even remotely eastern) and while Austin has its downsides, I still fully endorse living there. I am not sure what folks are saying about a lack of outdoor activities—Lady Bird and Lake Travis provide welcome relief even in the summers, and my daughter and I spent many days out in the nearby hills. I also enjoy how so many dining and drink options have expansive outdoor areas, though I recognize that is a different type of outdoor activity.
Austin’s prices continue to increase, but it is still incredibly affordable compared to many cities. The area you list as where your work would be based is not an exciting one, but you should be able to live in central Austin without too much commuting hassle at all. If you can afford it and/or don’t mind a small place, Clarksville/Old West is still one of my favorite areas of the city that is walkable in a way similar to Hyde Park.
The food scene is still extremely strong and there are a ton of great day trip options—Fredericksburg, San Antonio, etc. I was heavily involved in civic life in the city and there are a lot of very engaged people committed to their city.
I will say that I don’t think the fries at Hyde Park Bar & Grill are as good as they used to be