Austin to Houston, a Master Guide to Your Move in Texas Style

Living in Austin with its outdoor focus atmosphere and economic opportunities is hard to pass up. Here’s a few of our favorite reasons why we are pro Austin. (Don’t hate on us!)

• The live music scene is incredible! Whether you are into jazz, rock, or hip hop, you are bound to find your perfect spot truly every night of the week. There are incredible music festivals here with some of the world's top artists making their way through.
• Tech city! Austin has it all for the Midwest when it comes to technology and incubators. Many startups and major tech companies base themselves in Austin bringing about a talented local crowd. If you are still on the hunt for the right job for you or your partner, Austin has may co-working spaces where you can mingle, and meet ups for those looking to join the workforce. 
• Facilities and quality of life are top notch. Some of the best schools for children and all around community options are here in Austin waiting for you. Thanks to the rich tech scene, many great community centers and gyms have opened as well. 
• Hiking, swimming, biking, you name it- Austin has it going on. For nature lovers, Austin is a no brainer in TX. Now get that heart beat pumping!

Houston is no brainer with its cheaper costs of living and great night life. Here’s our list of why Houston is great:

• That mixed blend of all cultures just sits well in Houston culture. You will find a brilliant blend of local foods from all different cultures, music and festivals from all backgrounds, and really just a melting pot of great Texans.
• You’ll have plenty of job opportunities even outside Austin, as Houston is home to many Fortune 500 ideal companies, and the oil and gas industry leads the way here. You can find many job meetups and companies hiring at all points of the year.
• Next to none, excellent healthcare facilities! Houston is home to the Texas Medical Center, the largest medical complex in the entire world, which provides you with access to top-notch healthcare facilities for all specialties, research institutions, and some of the best doctors out there. If you or a family member is unwell, proximity to TMC could be a game changer for your family. 
• Nothing helps make a choice like finances, and when it comes to affordability in terms of cost of living, Houston ranks very high on the list. Housing in particular is found to be very affordable in most parts of Houston as well as food and medical costs that also run lower. 
• If you’re an avid sports fan then I don;t have to tell you about the tailgating potential you have in Houston. Whether you are a NFL or NBA fan, your team won't let you down. You can get front row seats to whatever game you want at the many sports areas you have in Houston. Go get em tiger!

• Proper preparation ahead of time is a game changer for your stress levels
• Have all packing supplies on hand before beginning
• Take breaks when you need them and check in on your family members to ensure they aren’t overwhelmed
• Go with the flow. Things aren’t always perfect
• Use extra bubble wrap if you really care about that breakable object
• Decision making can be hard but should be done as a team
• Handle the paperwork as much as possible ahead of time
• Pack an essential’s bag with everything you might need
• Downsize your clutter to downsize your stress
• Transition slowly into all the new changes
• Whatever health routine you keep, make sure not to make any drastic changes to it during these times.
• Stay dynamic and optimistic
• Ask for help where and when you need it
• Close off and open up your new utilities ahead of time
• Ensure to do a proper change of address before the move so that you can put bills in your name
• Don’t lose or pack away important things like medicines, all the bed sheets, or your favorite pillow
• Your personal car will be used to transport your essentials and plants along with your furry friends
• Think ahead of time about sign up dates for important local things such as your kid’s school, after school activities, community center, and gym sign ups so that you don’t miss out on a season

There are several fun and unique places to stop between Houston and Austin on a road trip or when making the move. Don’t just drive all those miles without stopping for some TX BBQ or a craft beer along the road. What a shame! Here are some options we personally love:

• Texas State University (see if you can line up your visit with a sports game or take a campus tour)
• Lockhart aka the BBQ capital of Texas baby!
• Craft breweries you’ll find all along the way
• Smithville which you’ll recognize from a few movies
• Buc-ee’s convenience stores are nothing special but good for a quick on the go shopping and pee break
• Winberly’s National Park

Whether you're interested in history, food, outdoor fun, or shopping, you'll find plenty of attractions to see along your route. 

Between the career opportunities and top quality of life outside that Austin has to offer, and Houston’s top of the line nightlife and job opportunities, either city can be a great match for you and your family. Don’t hesitate to spend a weekend in each city to get a real feel for the vibe and culture.  If you are moving between the two cities, know that iMoving has a large number of talented and vetted movers awaiting your call. We are more than happy to make the connection to make your move stress free.