Why Consider Moving from Minneapolis to Austin?
Minneapolis is known for its high quality of life, strong arts scene, and access to nature — but many are choosing to trade snowy winters for Austin’s warm climate and growing opportunities.
Austin is fast becoming a major player in the tech world, with big companies like Tesla, Apple, and Google expanding their presence there. It’s also one of the few states with **no income tax**, which makes it especially attractive for professionals, freelancers, and entrepreneurs.
Of course, the weather helps too. For many, leaving behind freezing winters is a major draw — but the move is about more than just escaping the cold. Austin offers a lively community, creative energy, and plenty of room to grow — both personally and professionally.
Cost of Living: Minneapolis vs. Austin
One of the biggest factors in any move is budget. Here’s how these two cities compare:
| Category | Minneapolis, MN | Austin, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Rent (1BR downtown) | $1,500 | $1,750 |
| Median Home Price | $360,000 | $480,000 |
| Monthly Utilities | $160 | $180 |
| Public Transport Pass | $85 | $45 |
| State Income Tax | 5.35–9.85% | 0% |
While housing in Austin tends to be more expensive than in Minneapolis, the lack of state income tax and lower transportation costs can balance things out. Plus, salaries in tech and creative fields tend to be higher, giving you more financial flexibility.
Housing Market Overview
Austin’s real estate market is hot — literally and figuratively. The city is growing fast, bringing new development and exciting neighborhoods to explore.
Popular areas for newcomers include:
- South Congress (SoCo): Trendy shops, live music, and great restaurants.
- Mueller: A thoughtfully designed neighborhood with green spaces and sustainability in mind.
- East Austin: Artsy, up-and-coming, and full of local flavor.
- Round Rock & Pflugerville: Great for families, with suburban comfort and easy access to downtown.
Compared to Minneapolis, Austin has more single-story homes, larger outdoor spaces like patios and decks, and a stronger focus on air conditioning and sun protection. If you’re coming from a Twin Cities home, you may also notice fewer basements and more open-air living.
Lifestyle and Cultural Changes
Both cities have a lot to offer — but they feel very different.
Minneapolis leans into Midwest values: strong community ties, cozy indoor culture during winter, and a rich tradition of arts and festivals. Austin, on the other hand, thrives on boldness — live music, food trucks, startup energy, and outdoor fun all year long.
What to expect in Austin:
- Over 300 sunny days a year
- Outdoor activities like kayaking on Lady Bird Lake or swimming at Barton Springs
- Tacos, BBQ, and a growing fine-dining scene
- A relaxed dress code and casual social vibe
- A thriving tech and entrepreneurial ecosystem
Plus, Austin is surrounded by nature — whether you’re hiking Enchanted Rock or spending a weekend near Lake Travis. And while public transit isn’t as robust as in Minneapolis, many downtown neighborhoods are walkable and bike-friendly.
How United Local Movers Can Help You Move Confidently
Moving across the country is no small task — especially from the North to the South. At United Local Movers, we specialize in long-distance relocations and understand the unique needs that come with such a big change.
We don’t just move your stuff — we help you move your entire life with care and efficiency. Whether you need full-service packing, furniture disassembly, or climate-controlled transport, we’ve got you covered.
Our services include:
- Free custom quotes based on your timeline and household size
- Packing and unpacking services for fragile or valuable items
- Furniture assembly and disassembly
- Climate-controlled trucks with real-time tracking
- Uniformed, experienced movers who treat your belongings like their own
- Flexible storage options — short-term or long-term
If your new home in Austin isn’t ready yet — or you want to take a vacation before settling in — we offer best-rate temporary storage so you can take your time unpacking without pressure.
No hidden fees. No surprises. Just reliable service you can count on. With years of experience helping people move from Minnesota to Texas, we’re the team you can trust.
Get your free quote today and let us handle the logistics while you get excited about your next chapter.
Final Thoughts
Moving from Minneapolis to Austin is more than just a change of address — it’s a lifestyle shift. From warmer weather to a buzzing job market and a more laid-back culture, Austin offers something truly special.
It might take some getting used to — like adjusting to summer heat and a faster-moving housing market — but for many, the rewards far outweigh the challenges.
Let United Local Movers support you every step of the way. We’ll handle the heavy lifting — so you can enjoy the excitement of your new life in Texas.
Contact us now and let’s make your move smooth, simple, and successful — together.
