I am from Boston working in the software industry. Looking for next move in career. New England area is a very beautiful and vibrant place except for harsh winter. We do a lot of hikes in spring and summer in the New England area. And enjoy all seasons except Fall and Winter. (September - March) A lot of people are moving to the Austin area from the Bay area. Definitely Bay area and Austin both are really good places. I have been to the Bay area and it is a very beautiful place. Lot of hikes nearby, a lot of national parks, and whatnot. You always have something to do outdoor. The only problem is the housing market and high taxes (and maybe tech-oriented life/talk). I know Austin is a developed big city and I am sure it will be a vibrant city. My question is, does Austin have good enough hikes/something we can go out and enjoy outdoor? For sure, we can do money-saving, etc. in Austin, but is it worth spending a life there? I don't care if I save less Money in the Bay area. But I want to enjoy my life. What do you guys think? #tech #Austin #sf #bayarea #software #opportunity #moving #boston
I grew up in Austin and lived in California then moved back this year. Yes there is a lake in Austin. There's a 10 mile beautiful trail around the lake. Yes, there are places to hike and trails to walk. There is the greenbelt. There are plenty of swimming holes if you're willing to drive. It all depends on what part you live in Austin. However, it will never be as beautiful as California. Whenever I'm in Austin, I find myself leaving the house much much less often, especially during the summer because it's simply so hot and I burn easily. Traffic is getting just as ridiculous as California since everyone is moving here and the roads/highways are not ready to take on the boom in population. I'm sure there are plenty of things to do but I find myself looking to move again even though I'm saving a lot of money here. Everyone's priorities are different and everyone's definitions of fun and beautiful are also different. Maybe come and try it out for a few weeks before you decide.
very well said. Thank you for the response.
I don't really get the hiking obsession tbh. Austin has a lot of beautiful places to get some fresh air but it's not a good city for someone who goes on long hikes as a primary means of entertainment. Pick the Bay Area, PNW, or Denver if that's your thing.
Beautiful places like?
Lady Bird Lake trail, Zilker Park, Barton Springs, Barton Creek Greenbelt, St. Edwards trail, walnut creek park, riverplace trail, Lake Travis, Lake Austin, San Marcos river, Guadalupe river, various hill country escapes e.g. Fredericksburg.
Northeast is far more vibrant, but Austin has some good hikes. More if you don’t mind driving an hour West. Enchanted Rock, Pedernales state park. In town there’s McKinney and the green belt. Plenty of smaller trails in between. Once a year you could drive out to Big Bend and really get your fix
Thank you for detailed list.