Compared to Minneapolis, Austin is a bustling Texan city of people coming from many different backgrounds. Austin also offers lots of different things to try and do. Entertainment is just one of them.

Needless to say, moving from Minneapolis to Austin can be an exciting experience. With a little bit of planning, you can make it enjoyable too.

Austin is the capital of Texas. It has a population of over 840,000. It is also a cultural and economic hub. There are lots of museums, music venues, and ballet groups in Austin to satiate your hunger for entertainment. What’s more, many Fortune 500 companies have their headquarters or regional offices in Austin.

That means Austin offers lots of opportunities for both entertainment buffs and professionals. It is also a family-friendly city safe for children as well as seniors. 

Austin Climate: Warmer Days Ahead

Austin’s subtropical climate is warmer and sunnier than Minneapolis. Expect:

• Hot summers: Average highs in the 90s°F

• Mild winters: Very little snow (just 0.6 inches/year)

• Rainy seasons: May, June, and October bring the most precipitation
  If you’re sensitive to heat, plan your move during cooler months like February or November.

Getting Around Austin

Getting around Austin is hardly an issue. Driving is the most popular way. Key highways include:

• Interstate 35 (I-35)

• US 183

• MoPac Expressway

• State Highway 71

Public Transit:

Operated by Capital Metro, Austin’s public transportation includes:

• Multiple bus routes

• The MetroRail serving Downtown and North Austin
  However, compared to Minneapolis, Austin scores lower in:

• Walkability

• Bike-friendliness

• Transit access

Education & Universities in Austin

Austin is a top destination for students, families, and academics:

• University of Texas at Austin

  • Over 50,000 students

  • 5th largest campus by enrollment in the U.S.

• Other notable institutions:

  • St. Edward’s University

  • Austin Community College

  • Art Institute of Austin

  • Acton School of Business

Entertainment Options

• Live music on every corner—Austin has the most live music venues per capita in the U.S.

• Annual festivals: South by Southwest (SXSW), Austin City Limits, and more

• Family-friendly attractions: Austin Zoo, Zilker Park, Thinkery children’s museum

• Performing arts: Ballet Austin, Austin Opera, dozens of small theaters

Cost of Living in Austin

Compared to Minneapolis, Austin is more expensive, especially in housing. However, higher average salaries in Austin help offset the increased cost. Be prepared for:

• Higher rent or home prices

• Increased utility costs (due to A/C in hot months)

• Comparable food and transportation expenses

Moving insurance

Texas requires movers to offer basic insurance, but it may not be enough.

Options:

• Released Value Protection (Free, but limited):

  • Pays only $0.60 per pound per item

  • Example: A damaged 30 lb TV = $18 compensation

• Full Value Protection (recommended):

  • Covers full repair or replacement

  • Offered by most movers or 3rd-party providers

Of course, this is a paltry sum. If you want your items to be insured for their full value, you should ask your mover about the other options they offer. Alternatively, you can consider buying insurance from a third-party insurance provider.

Tips Before Your Move

✔️ Check for Moving Restrictions

• Reserve building elevators in advance (if applicable)

• Verify if parking permits are needed for large trucks

• Review local HOA or apartment rules

✔️ Check Moving Company Credentials

• Verify licenses through the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV):
  https://www.txdmv.gov

Moving can be quite stressful. However, with a little care and attention to detail, you can make it a hassle-free experience. Prepare a moving checklist to ensure that no items of value are left behind.

Are you ready to move from Minneapolis to Austin?

Moving to Austin from Minneapolis is definitely a good idea for professionals and families with school or college-going students. Austin is the 4th largest city in Texas and boasts excellent educational institutions and career opportunities.

It is also an entertainment capital and you will find hardly any reasons to feel bored during your stay in Austin. Of course, it is warmer than Minneapolis but this is not much of an issue when you consider the benefits. Austin is safer too. You can move about without having to worry about your safety.