Leaving San Diego for Austin
For many San Diego families, the move to Austin starts as a casual conversation—more space, lower taxes, maybe a change of pace. But after one visit to West Austin, most people realize it’s not just a move; it’s an upgrade. The weather, the lifestyle, the energy—it’s different, but it feels familiar in all the right ways.
Climate and lifestyle parallels
Austin’s sunshine and outdoor culture remind a lot of San Diegans of home. The difference is how accessible it all is. You don’t have to plan weeks in advance to enjoy the lake, a hike, or a patio dinner. West Austin gives you that coastal vibe—open skies, active neighborhoods, and outdoor living—without the oceanfront price tag.
Homes that make sense for families
In San Diego, $1.5 million might buy you a two-bedroom bungalow near the beach or a townhome in a dense neighborhood. In West Austin, that same number can mean a 4,000-square-foot home with a pool, views of the Hill Country, and top-rated schools nearby. Builders here design for lifestyle—wide kitchens, indoor-outdoor layouts, and functional yards instead of postage-stamp patios.
Cost of living that actually feels lighter
San Diego’s beauty comes with high carrying costs—property taxes, gas, and California’s state income tax. Texas has no state income tax, and while property taxes are higher, most families still come out tens of thousands ahead each year. Combine that with lower energy costs, shorter commutes, and free parking everywhere, and you feel the difference immediately.
Schools and community values
One of the biggest draws for families leaving California is the education-to-lifestyle balance. West Austin’s Eanes ISD and Lake Travis ISD are both highly ranked, and parents describe the school community as “tight-knit and involved.” You see kids biking to practice, parents volunteering, and teachers who actually live nearby. It’s the kind of environment that feels small-town safe with big-city resources.
Outdoor culture, Texas edition
If you loved weekend beach days, you’ll fit right in with West Austin’s version—lake days. Lake Austin and Lake Travis offer boating, paddleboarding, and dockside dining that scratch the same itch as coastal life. Add Barton Springs, Hamilton Pool, and miles of hiking trails, and you’ll never run out of ways to stay outside.
Work-life balance you can feel
Austin’s tech and business scene has exploded, but West Austin maintains a neighborhood pace. Commutes are shorter, coffee shops double as workspaces, and evenings belong to family. You don’t have to sacrifice career momentum to live slower—it’s just built differently here.
My take
If you’re coming from San Diego, West Austin gives you everything you loved about California—minus the constant cost, congestion, and scheduling stress. You still get sunshine, community, and access to everything that matters, but with more room to breathe. It’s not leaving California behind; it’s keeping the best parts and actually getting to enjoy them.
Brandon Galia | West Austin Realtor
brandongalia.com