Real Estate in Austin, TX
Updated 2026 • Housing market data from 59 zip codes • Redfin data through January 2026
📊 Austin, TX Market Activity
The Austin housing market shows a median sale price of $512,500, -4.0% lower than last year. The price per square foot is $318, 318% above the national median of ~$215/sqft, down -4.0% year-over-year. Homes in Austin spend a median of 84 days on market, longer than the national median of 42 days — giving buyers more negotiation room.
🏘️ Austin Rental Market
The average rent in Austin, TX is $2,464 per month. A 2-bedroom apartment rents for approximately $1,746/month, while a 3-bedroom home averages $2,838/month.
📦 Austin Housing Supply & Demand
There are 2,208 new listings and 3,284 active properties on the market.
🏆 Austin Market Competitiveness
Homes in Austin sell for an average of 96.0% of their asking price. About 7% of properties sell above list price, indicating relatively low bidding pressure.
On average, homes sell for 96.0% of the asking price
7% of sales closed above asking, % at or below
📋 Housing Overview
Austin, TX Housing Market Insights
Delve into the specifics of the real estate market in this area. Understanding key metrics such as the median home price of 500000, the balance between renting (56%) and owning (44%), and a population of 974447 provides valuable insights for potential buyers, sellers, and investors. It is important to note that neighborhood characteristics can vary drastically, and decisions should not solely rely on data available without visiting. Many factors can differ, so do consider inspecting areas in-person to avoid potential mismatches in choice.
Rent vs. Buy Analysis
With a median home price of $500,000 and average rents of $2,464/month, the median household income of $86,556 provides context for affordability in Austin. Whether you're looking to buy property in Austin or invest in Austin real estate, understanding the price-to-rent ratio helps determine if renting or owning makes more financial sense for your situation. A 2-bedroom apartment rents for approximately $1,746/month, while a 3-bedroom house averages $2,838/month.
Economy & What Drives Austin Real Estate
Real estate values in Austin, TX are driven by local employment, school quality, and quality of life. The cost of living index of 117.9 (U.S. average = 100) reflects the overall affordability of the area. With a median household income of $86,556, residents have above-average purchasing power. Proximity to major employers, universities, and transportation corridors directly influences home values and demand across Austin neighborhoods.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- •Best known for festivals
- •Good schools available
- •Wide variety of restaurants
- •Friendly locals
- •Diverse population
- •Vibrant music scene
- •Welcoming for young adults
- •Tech hub of Texas
- •Strong job market
- •Great outdoor activities
Cons
- •Some crime in certain areas
- •Gentrification concerns
- •Traffic congestion issues
- •Limited public transport
- •Political divide in views
- •Not family-friendly in parts
- •High cost of living
- •Noise from nightlife
- •Hot summers and humidity
- •Increasing housing prices
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Austin, TX? ▼
The cost of living in Austin, TX is 18% higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 118 (where 100 represents the U.S. average). Housing typically accounts for the largest portion of living expenses. See full cost of living breakdown →
How much does it cost to buy or rent a home in Austin, TX? ▼
In Austin, TX, The median home price is $500,000. requiring approximately $150,000 annual income to afford. Average rent is $2,464/month (requiring ~$98,544/year income). The local median household income is $86,556, making homeownership challenging for typical residents. Explore Austin real estate data →
Is Austin, TX a safe place to live? ▼
Austin, TX is an area where crime rates exceed the national average. The crime rate is 40.9 per 1,000 residents. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood. View detailed Austin crime statistics →
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Austin, TX? ▼
To live comfortably in Austin, TX and afford a median-priced home of $500,000, you would typically need a household income of $125,000 to $156,250 per year. The local median household income is $86,556. Renting requires approximately $98,544/year (at $2,464/month). See full affordability analysis →
Is Austin, TX growing? ▼
Austin, TX has a population of 974,447. As a mid-to-large city, population trends depend on local housing development, job growth, and quality of life factors. The higher cost housing market and strong job market shape migration patterns. See Austin population demographics →
What are the best neighborhoods in Austin, TX? ▼
The best neighborhoods in Austin, TX depend on your priorities. For families, look for areas near top-rated schools with lower crime rates. For affordability, neighborhoods farther from the city center tend to offer more affordable options. Explore Austin on our interactive map →
What is the commute like in Austin, TX? ▼
Commute times in Austin, TX vary by neighborhood and workplace location. As a larger metro area, most residents rely on personal vehicles, though public transit options may be available. The moderate cost of living may allow for housing closer to employment centers. Explore commute times on our map →
How are the taxes in Austin, TX? ▼
Tax rates in Austin, TX include state and local components. The cost of living index of 118 indicates a higher cost environment compared to the national average. View detailed Austin tax information →
How does Austin, TX compare to nearby cities? ▼
Austin, TX offers comparable costs to nearby communities. With a cost of living index of 118, median home prices of $500,000, and a crime rate of 40.91 per 1,000 residents, you can compare these metrics side-by-side. Use the compare feature to evaluate specific cities.
What is the weather like in Austin, TX? ▼
Weather in Austin, TX varies by season. Climate data varies by season. View detailed Austin climate & environment data →
Is it better to rent or buy in Austin, TX? ▼
With a median home price of $500,000 and average rents of $2,464/month, the price-to-rent ratio in Austin is 16.9x. This suggests buying is reasonable for those planning to stay 5+ years. See full cost analysis →
What is the price per square foot in Austin, TX? ▼
The median price per square foot in Austin is $318, which is 48% above the national median of ~$215/sqft. This reflects the area's demand, construction costs, and proximity to employment centers.
How fast do homes sell in Austin, TX? ▼
Homes in Austin spend a median of 84 days on market before going under contract. This indicates homes take longer than the national median of 42 days, giving buyers more negotiating room. View full market data →
Explore More About Austin, TX
📅 Last Updated: January 2026
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau, Zillow, Redfin