If you are thinking about moving to Austin or the surrounding Hill Country, here is the clear answer most people want early: Austin is a large, fast growing metro with diverse neighborhoods, strong job markets, and very different lifestyles depending on where you land. Choosing the right area matters more than choosing the right house.

Austin has grown quickly, and like most expanding cities, crime has increased in certain pockets. Many longtime residents still feel safe day to day, especially in well established neighborhoods and suburbs, but it is smart to understand micro locations before committing. Austin proper sits at around one million people, while the full metro stretches from Georgetown to San Marcos and includes more than two million residents. That scale surprises many newcomers who expect a smaller city feel.

The suburbs are where lifestyle really diverges. Dripping Springs and Wimberley attract buyers who want Hill Country scenery, strong schools, and a quieter pace. Buda and Kyle appeal to commuters looking for newer housing and access to Austin jobs. Bastrop offers affordability and space, while Georgetown continues to be popular on the north side. Taylor is growing fast thanks to the Samsung expansion, which is reshaping that entire corridor.

Austin’s economy remains a major draw. Tech still anchors the market, but healthcare, biotech, manufacturing, and creative industries now play a big role. The biggest mistake I see is people choosing a location based on headlines instead of how they actually want to live day to day.

If you want help narrowing down where Austin or Central Texas fits your lifestyle, visit https://chrispesek.com, email chris@drippingspringshometeam.com, or call 512-736-1703. Chris Pesek is a Texas Hill Country Realtor specializing in land, acreage, and custom homes. 383+ sales. Top 2 Percent Producer. 63 five-star reviews. Austin TX, Central Texas, Dripping Springs TX, Wimberley TX, Bastrop TX, Georgetown TX, moving to Austin, Austin suburbs, Texas Hill Country living