The Austin move Bay Area buyers keep making
For years, tech professionals and families from the Bay Area have looked south for a smarter way to live. And while there are plenty of places to land in Austin, West Austin has become the clear favorite—especially for people leaving San Francisco, Palo Alto, and Marin. It’s the one area that delivers the views, the privacy, and the design quality that feel familiar but without the sticker shock.
The familiar vibe—with more breathing room
In many ways, West Austin mirrors Northern California’s best qualities: green hills, architectural homes, outdoor living, and creative energy. But here, a $2M budget buys what would cost $5M–$6M in Marin or Los Altos—usually with a pool, guest suite, and panoramic Hill Country sunsets. You get the same sophistication and natural beauty without the financial gymnastics.
Tech proximity without the density
Most Bay Area relocations still want access to major employers. West Austin sits near Austin’s fastest-growing tech corridor—Apple, Indeed, Google, and Oracle are all within 15–25 minutes. Many buyers keep their California roles but work remotely, taking advantage of lower costs and higher quality of life while staying close to flights at Austin-Bergstrom when travel calls.
Tax savings and lifestyle returns
California’s 13.3% income tax drives many high-earning professionals to reconsider their base. Texas has no state income tax, and even with higher property taxes, families often save tens of thousands per year. But it’s not just a financial upgrade—it’s a lifestyle return. You gain time, privacy, and outdoor space instead of gridlock, fog, and competition for school spots.
Where Bay Area buyers feel at home
– Westlake and Rollingwood: Architectural builds, top-rated Eanes ISD schools, and a 10-minute drive downtown.
Barton Creek and Lake Pointe: Modern estates with privacy, golf access, and lake proximity.
– Lakeway and Bee Cave: Newer construction, master-planned communities, and value for space.
– Tarrytown and Clarksville: Classic neighborhoods with tree-lined streets and easy downtown access.
Each of these areas gives Bay Area families what they’re used to—design, safety, and community—but without the stress that usually comes with it.
Quality of life you can feel daily
Most of my clients from the Bay Area mention the same thing within six months: “I didn’t realize how much of my time I was trading away.” In West Austin, a morning hike or school drop-off doesn’t require a spreadsheet. Kids walk to friends’ houses. Weekends mean lake days or neighborhood get-togethers instead of traffic and errands.
My take
If you’re moving from San Francisco, think of West Austin as Northern California’s more relaxed, sunnier cousin. You’ll recognize the architecture and lifestyle, but the scale and spirit are entirely your own. It’s not a downgrade—it’s an upgrade to time, peace, and space.
Brandon Galia | West Austin Realtor
brandongalia.com