http://www.jimmys-adventures.net/best-hiking-austin-tx/
Which area to move in Austin, Tx?
So we’re moving there in a month and a half from San Diego. We’re in our mid to late 20′s. We were looking into north and northwest Austin, but a lot of people are saying if we want the real feel for Austin, move south, near Mopac. I’ll be going to school at the Art institute near Roundrock. but heard if we live south near Mopac, then the commute should only be around 30 min….true or false.
We want to live near good recreational areas(we’ll be taking on kayaking) and love hiking and being outdoors. We can spend around $750 for 2 bdrms and want to live in a newer building. So which area would be best? We don’t want to live in a super collegy area…not huge partyers like that anymore, but still all the good amenities. Thanks. oh…does the northwest area have hills and hiking and all that stuff…we’ve never been…can’t wait though!!!!!!! Seems like a beautiful city.
While Northeast and East Austin do have some hidden gems, the overwhelming majority of these neighborhoods are bad (high rates of poverty, homelessness, crime, pollution, etc.).
North, Northwest, and Central Austin neighborhoods are typically much nicer than those mentioned above, but the crime rates in these areas are some of the highest in the city.
South and Southwest Austin are two of the safest options in town. These parts of Austin are also more diverse, offer more of the Austin culture/community vibe, and have more options for affordable housing.
West Austin is another safe part of town, but because of the cost of living there and difference in attitude, I wouldn’t really recommend it.
As for your specific questions:
* Travel time – Generally speaking, a trip from south Austin to north Austin via Mopac takes about 25-30 minutes. However, you will want to add 15-20 minutes if traveling during rush hour traffic.
* Outdoors/Recreation – For hiking, biking, swimming, running, and kayaking, south/southwest Austin and central Austin will be your prime locations.
* Rent – You won’t find a newer 2-bedroom apartment or rent house for $750. In fact, you probably won’t be able to find an older unit for that price. For 2-bedrooms, you should probably plan for a range of $850 – $1100.
I hope this helps; good luck on your move!
10104 Inshore, River Place, Austin, TX 78730