Why we chose to live in Austin instead of LA (and don’t regret it)

My husband and I have moved between Dallas, TX and Southern California (LA and Orange County) several times. When I got pregnant with our first child, we were renting an apartment and living in Orange County, CA. That's when were starting thinking more seriously about our future and made a decision to move to Austin, TX.

I won't lie, my husband went through the transition much easier and was pretty happy about the move from the beginning. However, I still missed California and it took me a while to really feel at home here in Austin, TX.

Here's why I believe me ultimately made the right choice are happy with our decision to call Austin home:

1. Cost of living

The elephant in the room! I'd say the cost of living is the number of one reason why so many Californians are moving to Texas now. While living in California, we were not able to buy a decent house or even a nice apartment. When we looked at the housing options in Austin, it was a no brainer. A really small older house in a lower-end neighborhood in Orange County costs double of what we paid for a good size house in Austin suburbs in a good family-friendly neighborhood.

2. Family-friendly lifestyle

I love that Austin has no shortage of family events throughout the year. There is ALWAYS something going on - concert, festival, theatre, musical, museum event, or activities at the library. Plus, there are so many kids gyms and play places around town! Oh, and the playgrounds - between the neighborhood and city playgrounds, parks, and pools - kids are always entrained! At the beginning of each week, I usually check on upcoming activities in the city and plan our time. 

3. Exciting restaurant and cultural scene

These are new restaurants popping up in Austin every month. We love downtown area and the Domain. Many places are family friendly and have built-in play areas for the kids. Cultural scene is happening as well! Gallery openings, museum exhibitions, galas, fashion shows - Austin has it all. The only downside, we don't have a baby sitter to attend it all, so many times to have to decline the invitation or have either me and my husband stay home with the kids.

4. Exposure to different cultures

Austin is not your typical Texas town, as though the rest of Texas is changing as well. More and more people are moving here from other states and other countries. It's great meeting people from other cultures and so much fun for the kids as well. It opens up their world and helps us build strong social connections. It is in Austin that we started taking the kids to Mandarin classes and subsequently decided to enroll them in a Chinese school. 

5. Abundance of outdoor activities

Austin is a real nature gem in the center of Texas. We have a beautiful downtown with the powerful Colorado River crossing though the heart of the city. There are also numerous nature trails, forests, little streams, and several lakes. Whatever outdoor adventure you are looking for - you can do it in Austin. Biking, hiking, kayaking, paddle boarding, boating, running, anything is just a short drive away.