AUS

Austin

Texas, United States

Arriving, settling in and working in Austin: what official sources say, in the order you’ll need it. Every point links to the page it came from.

Plan my move to Austin Read the guide ↓

Photo: Mitchell Kmetz / Unsplash

Guide sections12

Sourced facts68

Last verified1 Nov 2026

Areas with rent9

Decide

Is this the right city for us?

Austin at a glance

The basics about Austin, plus official sources for time, weather and living costs.

Austin had 1,002,632 residents in 2025, according to Census Bureau estimates reported by the City. It is the first time the city has passed one million people.
austintexas.gov ↗
The city added 4,025 residents in the year from 1 July 2024, growth of about 0.4%. Austin is the 12th most populous city in the US.
austintexas.gov ↗
Travis County added 16,197 housing units between July 2024 and July 2025, an increase of 2.4%.
austintexas.gov ↗
In 2026, US daylight saving time runs from 8 March to 1 November; clocks change at 2 a.m. local time.
nist.gov ↗

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For official forecasts and weather warnings, use the National Weather Service forecast office for Austin/San Antonio.
weather.gov ↗
Zumper's rent data for Austin lists an average of $1,342 a month for a 1-bedroom and $1,680 for a 2-bedroom (page updated 31 October 2026).
zumper.com ↗

External links

Zumper Austin rent data ↗NWS Austin/San Antonio ↗ReLoc doesn’t review listings on these sites and isn’t paid for these links.

Every point links to its official source.✓ Verified 1 Nov 2026

Laws and customs

Everyday Texas and Austin rules that often surprise newcomers.

The Texas state sales tax is 6.25%. Cities, counties and other local bodies can add up to 2%, for a maximum combined rate of 8.25%.
comptroller.texas.gov ↗
Smoking is banned in all enclosed public places and workplaces in Austin, and within 15 feet of their entrances and windows.
austintexas.gov ↗
You can report a smoking violation through the City's online form or by calling 3-1-1.
austintexas.gov ↗
Texas allows only low-THC cannabis, and only for patients in the state's Compassionate Use Program. Patients must buy from a licensed dispensing organization and cannot grow their own.
dps.texas.gov ↗

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Texas law bans smoking even prescribed low-THC cannabis. Penalties for other controlled substances are unchanged.
dps.texas.gov ↗
For mental health or emotional support, call or text 988, or chat at chat.988lifeline.org. It is free, confidential and open 24/7.
988lifeline.org ↗

External links

Report a smoking violation (Austin 3-1-1) ↗ReLoc doesn’t review listings on these sites and isn’t paid for these links.

Every point links to its official source.✓ Verified 1 Nov 2026

Arrive

The first 72 hours

Arriving in Austin

Getting from Austin-Bergstrom airport into the city, and your first admin steps.

CapMetro Route 20 (Manor Road/Riverside) runs from the airport to Downtown in about 35 minutes, every 15 to 30 minutes, 7 days a week.
capmetro.org ↗
The airport bus stop is on the lower level, just outside baggage claim. A ride costs $1.25; paying by phone or card caps your fare at $2.50 a day.
capmetro.org ↗
If you are not a US citizen, you must report each change of address to USCIS within 10 days of moving. A US Postal Service change of address does not update USCIS. A and G visa holders and visa waiver visitors are exempt.
uscis.gov ↗
If you can't get a Social Security number through your visa process, the SSA suggests waiting 10 days after arrival before you apply, so it can verify your documents.
ssa.gov ↗

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You can drive on a valid licence from another US state, Canada or a qualifying country for up to 90 days after moving to Texas.
dps.texas.gov ↗

External links

Airport by bus (CapMetro) ↗ReLoc doesn’t review listings on these sites and isn’t paid for these links.

Every point links to its official source.✓ Verified 1 Nov 2026

Getting around

CapMetro buses and rail, fares and fare capping.

A local CapMetro ride (bus, Rapid, UT Shuttle, Pickup) costs $1.25. Commuter services (Express and Rail) cost $3.50 and include local service.
capmetro.org ↗
After two paid rides in a service day (4 a.m. to 3:59 a.m.), the rest of your rides that day are free: $2.50 a day for local and $7 for commuter services.
capmetro.org ↗
With the Umo app or a Reloadable Fare Card, reaching 17 capped days in a calendar month makes the rest of that month free. Tap to Pay with a bank card only caps daily, and works on buses only.
capmetro.org ↗
Kids under 18 ride free. Reduced fares are available to adults 65 and over, Medicare card holders, riders with disabilities and some military ID holders.
capmetro.org ↗

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Paper Day Passes and magnetic-stripe passes were retired from 1 June 2026. Cash still works for a single ride. You can load a Reloadable Fare Card with cash at H-E-B or the Transit Store.
capmetro.org ↗
While fareboxes are being replaced, rear-door scanners are removed, so board at the front.
capmetro.org ↗
CapMetro says fares will increase on 10 January 2027.
capmetro.org ↗

External links

Fares (CapMetro) ↗Farebox changes 2026 (CapMetro) ↗ReLoc doesn’t review listings on these sites and isn’t paid for these links.

Every point links to its official source.✓ Verified 1 Nov 2026

Settle

Home, school, doctor, bank

Neighbourhoods and housing

Renting rules in Texas and local rent levels.

Zumper's average asking rents for Austin are $1,342 a month for a 1-bedroom and $1,680 for a 2-bedroom (31 October 2026).
zumper.com ↗
A Texas landlord must refund your security deposit on or before the 30th day after you move out (Property Code §92.103).
guides.sll.texas.gov ↗
The landlord does not have to refund the deposit or list deductions until you give a written forwarding address. You keep the right to a refund even if you don't.
guides.sll.texas.gov ↗
If the landlord deducts for repairs, they must give an itemised list. They cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
guides.sll.texas.gov ↗

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If a landlord wrongfully withholds a deposit, you can sue for three times the amount withheld; claims under $20,000 can go to justice court.
guides.sll.texas.gov ↗
The State Law Library notes it cannot explain what the law means for your situation; get legal help for a specific dispute.
guides.sll.texas.gov ↗

External links

Zumper Austin rent data ↗Texas security deposit rules (State Law Library) ↗ReLoc doesn’t review listings on these sites and isn’t paid for these links.

Every point links to its official source.✓ Verified 1 Nov 2026

Schools

Enrolling children in Austin ISD public schools.

To enrol with Austin ISD, start an application online at austinisd.org/enroll, choose your zoned school or apply for a transfer, then upload documents with the annual forms.
doss.austinschools.org ↗
Bring your child's birth certificate (or a passport or other proof of identity and age), immunisation records, a parent photo ID and any withdrawal form or last report card.
doss.austinschools.org ↗
You also need proof of residency: a current electric, gas, lease or mortgage statement dated within 45 days. The child's Social Security card is optional.
doss.austinschools.org ↗
Pre-K registration for the 2026-27 year began on 1 April. For help, contact your school's registrar.
doss.austinschools.org ↗

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The 2026-27 school year started on 18 August 2026 and ends for students on 27 May 2027. Winter break starts on 21 December 2026 and spring break is 15 to 19 March 2027.
austinisd.org ↗

External links

Enroll Austin family support manual ↗2026-27 calendar (Austin ISD) ↗ReLoc doesn’t review listings on these sites and isn’t paid for these links.

Every point links to its official source.✓ Verified 1 Nov 2026

Healthcare

Health insurance and low-cost care in Austin and Travis County.

Texans buy individual health plans on HealthCare.gov during open enrollment or a special enrollment period. Buying there may qualify you for tax credits that lower your premium.
tdi.texas.gov ↗
Open enrollment for 2027 coverage runs from 1 November 2026 to 15 January 2027. Enrol by 15 December for coverage starting 1 January.
healthcare.gov ↗
Moving counts as a life change that can let you enrol outside open enrollment.
healthcare.gov ↗
The Texas Department of Insurance help line is 800-252-3439.
tdi.texas.gov ↗

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Central Health's Medical Access Program (MAP) helps uninsured Travis County residents with incomes at or below 200% of the federal poverty level get doctors, specialists, prescriptions and dental care. It is not health insurance.
centralhealth.net ↗
Apply for MAP online or call 512-978-8130, option 1 (weekdays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.); interpreters are available. If you don't qualify, CommUnityCare Health Centers charge on a sliding scale.
centralhealth.net ↗

External links

HealthCare.gov dates and deadlines ↗Medical Access Program (Central Health) ↗ReLoc doesn’t review listings on these sites and isn’t paid for these links.

Every point links to its official source.✓ Verified 1 Nov 2026

Banking and ID

Social Security numbers, tax IDs, bank accounts and a local photo ID.

Noncitizens can usually get a Social Security number only if DHS has authorised them to work. Applying is free; you can start online and then visit a Social Security office within 45 days with original documents.
ssa.gov ↗
If you are not eligible for a Social Security number but need a US tax number, apply for an ITIN using IRS Form W-7.
irs.gov ↗
To open a bank account you usually need photo ID (some banks accept a foreign passport or consular ID), an ID number such as an SSN or ITIN, and a second document such as a bill with your address. Without an SSN or ITIN you may only get a no-interest account.
files.consumerfinance.gov ↗
Most banks and credit unions ask for an opening deposit of $25 to $100. Ask whether direct deposit waives the monthly fee.
files.consumerfinance.gov ↗

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Bank deposits are insured by the FDIC up to $250,000 per depositor, per insured bank, for each ownership category.
fdic.gov ↗
Austin Public Library's free Enhanced Library Card carries your photo and address. City departments including Police and Public Health accept it as ID, but it is not valid voter ID.
library.austintexas.gov ↗

External links

SSN for noncitizens (SSA) ↗Enhanced Library Card (APL) ↗ReLoc doesn’t review listings on these sites and isn’t paid for these links.

Every point links to its official source.✓ Verified 1 Nov 2026

Driving and cars

Texas licences, vehicle registration and insurance.

You can drive on a valid licence from another US state, US territory, Canadian province or qualifying country for up to 90 days after moving to Texas.
dps.texas.gov ↗
With a licence from another US state or Canada, you surrender it and don't need to take the knowledge or skills test.
dps.texas.gov ↗
Texas has licence reciprocity with France, Germany, South Korea, the United Arab Emirates and Taiwan, so tests can be waived for valid licences from those countries.
dps.texas.gov ↗
A licence that isn't in English or Spanish must be translated by a translation service or your consulate.
dps.texas.gov ↗

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Register your vehicle within 30 days of moving to Texas, at your county tax assessor-collector office. In Travis County you need a passing emissions inspection first.
txdmv.gov ↗
Texas minimum car insurance is $30,000 per injured person, $60,000 per accident and $25,000 for property damage.
txdmv.gov ↗

External links

Moving to Texas (DPS) ↗New to Texas (TxDMV) ↗ReLoc doesn’t review listings on these sites and isn’t paid for these links.

Every point links to its official source.✓ Verified 1 Nov 2026

Where people live in Austin

Average rent a month from official or market surveys, as of 1 Nov 2026. Asking rents for new listings are often higher.

Downtown Austin

Central Austin

1 bedroom$2,376

2 bedroom$3,785

SinglesCouplesNear the centreNightlife

Source: Downtown Austin rent prices — Zumper ↗

Zilker

South Central Austin

1 bedroom$1,966

2 bedroom$2,699

CouplesNear the centre

Source: Zilker rent prices — Zumper ↗

Hyde Park

Central Austin

1 bedroom$1,283

2 bedroom$1,499

CouplesQuietStudents

Source: Hyde Park rent prices — Zumper ↗

North University

Central Austin

1 bedroom$1,195

2 bedroom$1,335

StudentsLower rent

Source: North University rent prices — Zumper ↗

West University

Central Austin

1 bedroom$1,237

2 bedroom$1,850

StudentsSingles

Source: West University rent prices — Zumper ↗

Riverside

Southeast Austin

1 bedroom$1,150

2 bedroom$1,358

Lower rentSingles

Source: Riverside rent prices — Zumper ↗

Montropolis

Southeast Austin

1 bedroom$1,455

2 bedroom$1,697

Lower rentFamilies

Source: Montropolis rent prices — Zumper ↗

North Burnet

North Austin

1 bedroom$1,533

2 bedroom$2,134

CouplesFamilies

Source: North Burnet rent prices — Zumper ↗

West Oak Hill

Southwest Austin

1 bedroom$1,330

2 bedroom$1,514

FamiliesQuietLower rent

Source: West Oak Hill rent prices — Zumper ↗

Zumper's average asking rent per month for 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom units listed on Zumper, from each neighbourhood page's rent table (pages updated 30 Sep to 1 Nov 2026). Austin-wide averages: $1,342 (1-bed) and $1,680 (2-bed), updated 31 Oct 2026.

Thrive

Work, study, belong

Jobs and work

Pay, wage claims and job search help.

Texas uses the federal minimum wage of $7.25 an hour.
twc.texas.gov ↗
With restrictions, employers can count tips and the value of meals and lodging towards the minimum wage.
twc.texas.gov ↗
If you aren't paid, file a wage claim with the Texas Workforce Commission within 180 days of the date wages were due, or call 800-628-5115.
twc.texas.gov ↗
You can instead sue in civil court within two years to recover unpaid wages plus an equal amount in damages.
twc.texas.gov ↗

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Workforce Solutions Capital Area offers free job search help, including WorkInTexas.com job listings, resume help and free virtual workshops.
wfscapitalarea.com ↗

External links

Texas minimum wage (TWC) ↗Find a job (Workforce Solutions Capital Area) ↗ReLoc doesn’t review listings on these sites and isn’t paid for these links.

Every point links to its official source.✓ Verified 1 Nov 2026

Universities

Major colleges and help for international students.

The University of Texas at Austin had 55,000 students in fall 2025, including 44,314 undergraduates.
news.utexas.edu ↗
UT Austin had 5,140 international students in fall 2025, 9.3% of all students.
news.utexas.edu ↗
Austin Community College expected more than 43,600 students in fall 2026, about 6% more than a year earlier.
sites.austincc.edu ↗
More than 14,000 ACC students are enrolled through its Free Tuition Pilot in fall 2026.
sites.austincc.edu ↗

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If you have been accepted to an SEVP-certified school, there are extra steps to take before you enter the US. The SEVP Response Center is on 703-603-3400, weekdays 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET.
studyinthestates.dhs.gov ↗

External links

Study in the States (DHS) ↗ReLoc doesn’t review listings on these sites and isn’t paid for these links.

Every point links to its official source.✓ Verified 1 Nov 2026

Communities and support

Where to get free help and connect with others.

Austin Police Department Victim Services helps crime victims regardless of immigration status and does not ask about status. Call 512-974-5037 in business hours.
austintexas.gov ↗
Victim Services can connect people to legal aid, shelter, medical care, basic needs and counselling. Outside business hours, call 911 and ask for a Victim Services counselor.
austintexas.gov ↗
The City of Austin has a Commission on Immigrant Affairs. Call 3-1-1 for general City information.
austintexas.gov ↗
An Enhanced Library Card is free to Austin residents aged 18 and over. Apply in person at one of nine library locations with photo ID and proof of address.
library.austintexas.gov ↗

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Workforce Solutions Capital Area runs services for youth aged 14 to 24, veterans and people with disabilities, plus hiring events and career workshops.
wfscapitalarea.com ↗

External links

Information for our immigrant community (APD) ↗Enhanced Library Card (APL) ↗ReLoc doesn’t review listings on these sites and isn’t paid for these links.

Every point links to its official source.✓ Verified 1 Nov 2026

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