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Austin, Texas, is a city that captures the hearts of many with its unique blend of creativity, innovation, and southern charm. Known for its legendary music scene, vibrant tech industry, and welcoming community, Austin offers a lifestyle that is both dynamic and laid-back. Not sure if the city is for you? Read on to find out what to expect if you’re considering a move to the Austin area in 2024.

You know it from: Slacker, Dazed and Confused, Zombieland

Average 1 bedroom rent: $1,445 | Austin apartments for rent, Austin houses for rent

Average home price: $565,000 | Austin homes for sale

Average cost of full-service moving services: $126/hr for 2 movers

Average cost to rent a moving truck: $19 – $39/day

Top industries: Technology, Healthcare, Manufacturing

Move here for: Live music, the food, the nightlife

Be sure to bring: A bathing suit and an instrument

The heat can be oppressive and it will wear on you over time

Summers in Austin are brutal. There’s just no way around it. From late May through September, temperatures hover around  100°F. If you are moving from a cooler area such as New England or the West Coast, expect this to be an adjustment. Air conditioning is an absolute necessity here. While the intense heat can be daunting, the rest of the year is typically mild, with short, cool winters. 

Moving Tip: Austin is the 2nd hottest big city in Texas, second only to El Paso. The city’s numerous swimming holes, like Barton Springs Pool and Deep Eddy Pool, provide popular escapes from the heat.

The music scene is legendary

Austin is known as the “Live Music Capital of the World” for good reason. The city hosts numerous music festivals, including the famous Austin City Limits (ACL) and South by Southwest (SXSW). The Old Settler’s Music Festival just outside of town is another highlight. On any given night, dozens of venues along Sixth Street and the Red River Cultural District are buzzing with live performances. Music lovers will appreciate the variety and frequency of shows, from local indie bands to international superstars. The city’s commitment to music extends to free outdoor concerts at places like Zilker Park and Auditorium Shores.

The cost of living is rising

While Austin had a long standing reputation for affordability. Whether you’re hoping to rent or buy in Austin, the influx of tech companies and new residents has driven up housing prices significantly. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is now just under $1,500, and home prices have seen double-digit increases year over year. Despite this, many still find Austin’s cost of living manageable compared to other tech hubs. However, potential movers should budget accordingly and consider exploring neighborhoods further from the city center for more affordable options.

Tech industry boom

Austin has become a major tech hub, earning the nickname “Silicon Hills.” Major companies like Apple and Google have established significant presences here, bringing high-paying jobs and economic growth. The job market is robust, particularly in tech and innovation sectors. For tech professionals, Austin offers exciting career opportunities without the astronomical cost of living found in Silicon Valley. Additionally, the city’s supportive startup ecosystem encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Community spirit

Austin prides itself on its community spirit and welcoming atmosphere. The city’s motto, “Keep Austin Weird,” reflects its embrace of individuality and creativity. Local events, such as the Pecan Street Festival and the ABC Kite Festival, foster a sense of togetherness. Neighborhoods like South Congress and East Austin are known for their eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and street art. This strong sense of community is evident in the numerous local initiatives and volunteer opportunities available to residents.

Dogs are welcome here

Austin is known for being exceptionally pet-friendly. Many restaurants, bars, and even shops welcome pets, and there are numerous dog parks around the city. Red Bud Isle and Auditorium Shores are popular spots for off-leash play. Additionally, the annual Austin Pet Expo and events like Barks for Beers showcase the city’s love for pets. Pet owners will find a welcoming environment and plenty of activities to enjoy with their furry friends.

Beer, Tacos, and BBQ 

The food scene in Austin is dynamic and diverse. The city is famous for its barbecue, with Franklin Barbecue often cited as the best in the country. Tacos are a staple, and places like Torchy’s Tacos and Veracruz All Natural are local favorites. Beyond barbecue and tacos, Austin boasts an excellent craft beer scene. A plethora of food trucks serve up a variety of cuisines, from Thai to vegan fare. Food festivals, such as the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest and the Austin Food + Wine Festival, further highlight the city’s culinary prowess.

Lakes, parks, and trails

Austin offers abundant outdoor activities, thanks to its numerous parks, lakes, and trails. Lady Bird Lake is a hotspot for kayaking, paddleboarding, and hiking along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail. Zilker Park, home to the annual Austin City Limits Festival, provides green space for picnics, sports, and the Barton Springs Pool. The nearby Hill Country offers additional opportunities for hiking, camping, and wine tasting. Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in and around the city.

You will probably need a car so be prepared for rush hour traffic

Austin’s rapid growth has led to significant traffic congestion. The city’s infrastructure struggles to keep up with the increasing population, especially during rush hour on highways like I-35 and MoPac. Public transportation options include buses and a limited light rail service, but many residents still rely on cars. Recent initiatives aim to improve the situation, including expansions to the light rail system and increased bike lane networks. However, you should be prepared for commute times that can rival larger cities.

Cultural diversity

Austin is a melting pot of cultures, which is reflected in its food, music, and festivals. The city’s diverse population includes significant Hispanic and Asian communities, contributing to a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. Festivals like the Austin Asian American Film Festival and the Texas Book Festival celebrate this diversity. This cultural blend makes Austin a vibrant place to live, offering residents a chance to experience a wide range of traditions and cuisines.

Growing bike-friendly options

Austin is increasingly becoming bike-friendly city with an extensive network of bike lanes and trails. The city’s B-cycle bike-sharing program makes it easy to get around without a car. The Veloway and the Southern Walnut Creek Trail are popular routes for both casual riders and serious cyclists. The city also hosts events like the annual Austin Bike Fest, promoting cycling as a sustainable and enjoyable mode of transportation. For those moving to Austin, investing in a good bike can enhance the living experience.

Creative and artistic vibes

Austin’s artistic community is thriving, with countless galleries, theaters, and street art installations. The East Austin Studio Tour and the Blanton Museum of Art are just a couple of highlights. The city also hosts various film festivals, including the Austin Film Festival, which attracts filmmakers and cinephiles from around the world. Street art, particularly in neighborhoods like the HOPE Outdoor Gallery, adds to the city’s creative atmosphere, making it an inspiring place to live.

Higher ed excellence

Austin is home to several highly regarded educational institutions, most notably the University of Texas at Austin. UT Austin is a major research university with a diverse range of programs and a vibrant campus life. The presence of such a large university contributes to the city’s youthful energy and provides ample opportunities for continuing education and professional development. Additionally, the city has strong public and private school systems.

Active nightlife

The nightlife in Austin is energetic and varied, catering to a wide range of tastes. Sixth Street is famous for its bars and live music venues, while the Warehouse District offers a more upscale experience. Rainey Street, known for its bungalow-style bars and food trucks, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re into dancing, live music, or a quiet drink at a speakeasy, Austin’s nightlife scene has something for everyone.

A commitment to sustainability

Austin is dedicated to environmental sustainability, with numerous initiatives aimed at reducing the city’s carbon footprint. The city has a robust recycling program and incentives for using renewable energy sources. Community gardens, farmers’ markets, and composting programs are also prevalent. The Sustainable Food Center and the Austin Zero Waste Alliance are just two organizations working towards a greener Austin. Residents who prioritize eco-friendly living will find plenty of support and resources in the city.

Methodology: Average rent prices sourced from Rent.com July 2024. Home prices sourced from Redfin July 2024. Average moving costs sourced from MoveBuddha. Employment data sourced from Gravity USA.

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The “City of Angels,” Los Angeles, CA, is one of Southern California’s most iconic cities, from the Hollywood sign and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) to sports teams like the Lakers and the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame. With too many landmarks to list, it’s no wonder that so many people dream of calling Los Angeles home.

Living in Los Angeles can be expensive, though. For example, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $2,614. But, if you want to experience Los Angeles’ major attractions, renting in a more expensive neighborhood may be for you. ApartmentGuide has compiled a list of the most expensive neighborhoods in Los Angeles to help you find the perfect place to rent.

14 Expensive Neighborhoods in Los Angeles, CA

If you’re looking to rent an apartment in Los Angeles, you’ll find a range of options from the luxurious PICO neighborhood to the tech hub of Silicon Beach. These Los Angeles neighborhoods will be sure to fit your lifestyle.

1. PICO
2. Silicon Beach
3. South Robertson
4. Macarthur Park
5. Mid-City West
6. Park La Brea
7. Westside
8. Mid – Wilshire
9. Silver Lake
10. Central Hollywood
11. Palms
12. Bunker Hill
13. Arts District
14. Brentwood

Let’s jump in and see what these neighborhoods have to offer.

1. PICO

Average 1-bedroom rent: $3,475
Apartments for rent in PICO

PICO is the most expensive neighborhood in Los Angeles, as the average rent for a one-bedroom unit is $3,475. There are plenty of reasons why this neighborhood draws residents. PICO is near attractions like the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum, making it a prime location to explore the city. If you’re looking for a taste of the neighborhood, there are a variety of local restaurants to explore, showcasing Los Angeles’ global food scene. For renters living in Los Angeles without a car, there are several public transit options near PICO.

2. Silicon Beach

Average 1-bedroom rent: $3,394
Apartments for rent in Silicon Beach

Silicon Beach is a bustling area that’s west of downtown Los Angeles, located by the beach. This beautiful neighborhood is near lots of attractions like Venice Beach and the Santa Monica Pier. Silicon Beach is well-known for its green spaces, like Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area and the charming shops and cafes along the beach. The average rent for one-bedroom apartments is $3,394, which is about $700 above the city’s average, making it a pricier neighborhood. However, Silicon Beach’s charm and location may be worth it.

3. South Robertson

Average 1-bedroom rent: $3,326
Apartments for rent in South Robertson

With an average one-bedroom rent of $3,326, South Robertson is the third most expensive neighborhood in Los Angeles. This neighborhood has plenty of historic homes in styles like Spanish Colonial Revival and Craftsman, making it a great area to explore. South Robertson is also near I-10, making it a convenient location for commuters. If you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon, you can find Reynier Park and the Cheviot Hills Recreation Center in the area.

4. Macarthur Park

Average 1-bedroom rent: $3,252
Apartments for rent in Macarthur Park

Macarthur Park is the next most expensive neighborhood in Los Angeles. This neighborhood is known for its central location near Wilshire Boulevard, where you’ll find The Wiltern, Lafayette Park, Dynasty Typewriter, and MacArthur Park. It’s one of Los Angeles’s centrally-located neighborhoods, and it’s no wonder this area is expensive. Macarthur Park has a lot of shops and restaurants, reflecting Los Angeles’s vibe. Make sure to check out spots like Doña Bibi’s Restaurant, Langer’s Delicatessen-Restaurant, and Yangmani.

5. Mid-City West

Average 1-bedroom rent: $3,237
Apartments for rent in Mid-City West

Mid-City West is a stellar neighborhood if you want to live near plenty of popular attractions like the Beverly Center, the Peterson Automotive Museum, and the El Rey Theatre. While more expensive, the perks of living in Mid-City West may help offset the costs. For example, you can live in Los Angeles without a car as Mid-City West is near plenty of bus routes. You can also walk to attractions like The Grove, Pan Pacific Park, and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.

6. Park La Brea

Average 1-bedroom rent: $3,227
Apartments for rent in Park La Brea

Next up is Park La Brea, the sixth most expensive neighborhood in Los Angeles. Park La Brea is full of history and charm, with tree-lined streets, historic buildings, and museums. This area also has plenty of parks, restaurants, and attractions, so you’ll have lots to explore. Make sure to enjoy the outdoors at Pan Pacific Park, see a concert at El Rey Theatre, tour the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, or grab a meal at one of the neighborhood restaurants. It’s no wonder the rents are above Los Angeles’ average.

7. Westside

Average 1-bedroom rent: $3,150
Apartments for rent in Westside

Located west of downtown, Westside is the next neighborhood on our list. Westside has a friendly atmosphere and community feeling, with plenty of local cafes and restaurants along Westwood Boulevard and Pico Boulevard, such as The Apple Pan and Taste of Tehran. You can also check out some of Westside’s green spaces, like Cheviot Hills Park. Since Westside is near the Los Angeles Country Club and the Museum of Tolerance, its activities are one of the many reasons people live here.

8. Mid – Wilshire

Average 1-bedroom rent: $3,117
Apartments for rent in Mid – Wilshire

Mid – Wilshire takes the eighth spot on our list of most expensive neighborhoods in Los Angeles. The average rent for a one-bedroom unit is roughly $700 more than the city’s average. Mid – Wilshire is a great option to consider if you’re looking to be near the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the Wilshire Ebell Theatre. It’s about 7 miles from downtown, so you’ll have easy access to the city center without living in the bustling atmosphere. This area is also near some of the most affordable neighborhoods in Los Angeles.

9. Silver Lake

Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,995
Apartments for rent in Silver Lake

A well-loved Los Angeles neighborhood, Silver Lake is the next area. Silver Lake is home to the Silver Lake Reservoir and the Silver Lake Meadows, meaning there’s plenty to do throughout the week. You’ll find there are countless historic buildings in Silver Lake, like the Paramour Estate, Lautner’s ‘Silvertop’ Reiner-Burchill Residence, and the Mattachine Steps, so make sure to explore the area’s charm. The iconic Sunset Boulevard runs through the neighborhood, so there are lots of restaurants and cafes, such as Pine and Crane Silverlake and Alfred Coffee. If you need to commute to work, there are lots of options, as the I-5 is nearby.

10. Central Hollywood

Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,917
Apartments for rent in Central Hollywood

The tenth most expensive neighborhood in Los Angeles is Central Hollywood. This famous neighborhood is home to iconic attractions like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre, The Hollywood Museum, and the Capitol Records Building. You can find parks like Runyon Canyon Park and the Hollywood Reservoir, which are perfect for enjoying a sunny day in Los Angeles. Central Hollywood also hosts the Hollywood Farmers’ Market each week, providing residents with lots of opportunities to enjoy the neighborhood.

11. Palms

Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,845
Apartments for rent in Palms

Number 11 on our list is Palms, located near Culver City. This neighborhood is located west of downtown Los Angeles and is a fantastic area if you’re looking for a neighborhood with a charming main street. You can find plenty of cozy cafes and lively restaurants along Venice Boulevard and Motor Avenue. Palms is also close to Media Park and the popular Sony Pictures Studio Tour.

12. Bunker Hill

Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,788
Apartments for rent in Bunker Hill

Taking the 12th spot is Bunker Hill, located in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $2,788, compared to the city’s average of $2,614. Bunker Hill’s expensive rent may be offset by its famous attractions like the Walt Disney Concert Hall, The Broad, the Angels Flight Railway, or the Museum of Contemporary Art. The convenience of these activities might be worth it to move to the neighborhood.

13. Arts District

Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,734
Apartments for rent in Arts District

The Arts District is a popular area located in eastern Downtown LA. With attractions like Hauser & Wirth, Resident, Institute of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles, and Arts District Brewing Company, there are many reasons this expensive area may be for you. The average one-bedroom rent is $2,734, but this vibrant neighborhood may be right for you. Be sure to check out nearby Little Tokyo and Pershing Square to get the most out of the area.

14. Brentwood

Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,725
Apartments for rent in Brentwood

Taking the final spot on our list of expensive neighborhoods in Los Angeles is Brentwood. This area has an average one-bedroom rent of $2,725, meaning it’s closer in price to the city’s average. If you plan to rent in Brentwood make sure to check out the Getty Center, hike the Murphy Ranch trail, and check out the cafes and restaurants along San Vincente Boulevard to immerse yourself in the neighborhood’s vibrant atmosphere.

Methodology: Whether a neighborhood has an average 1-bedroom rent price over the city’s average. Average rental data from Rent.com in March 2024.

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Last week, I was thrilled that the lastest issue of Rue Magazine revealed one of my favorite parts of the Loft Life 2.0, the first ever Apartment 34 offices!  Above are some outtakes from my shoot with Emily Anderson that didn’t quite make the cut. I couldn’t be happier with how the space turned out.

I had the simultaneous joy and challenge of starting with a completely blank slate – a 10 x 12 room with concrete floors and blank walls after I painted them with Benjamin Moore 01 White, my must have color. While I knew the general furniture pieces and placement I was going for, the style evolved very organically. All it took was one walk-through of my favorite furniture resource in San Francisco, H.D. Buttercup. The bright white color palette and metallic accents jumped out at me immediately. My favorite piece in the space has to be my desk. Made of remnant pieces of petrified wood, I love having a spot to settle in and get down to business! 

Of course, I also had to pick up accessories to give the eye something interesting to land on. The room is dotted with lacquer and acrylic trays, my favorite way to organize bits and bobs. I’m tad obsessed with my artichoke container on my desk, which now holds my collection of washi tape! It came from Cavalier Goods in San Francisco, and if you’ve never stopped by yet, I highly recommend it!

I hope you enjoyed this first little peek into the loft. There’s much more to come very soon!! For now, head over to Rue Magazine to see the entire space!

Photos by Emily Anderson / Design & Styling by Erin Hiemstra / Get the look: zara sweater, jcrew trousers, phillip lim booties

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Source: apartment34.com

Apache is functioning normally

We interrupt our regularly scheduled Wedding Week to finally reveal our labor of love: our new and much improved, Apartment 34 team office!

We said we’d have the office makeover done in a month, but like all good design projects, it ended up taking four! Thankfully it’s here now and it’s pretty awesome if we do say so ourselves!. We’re SO excited to finally be able to invite you in for a tour.

The space needed to be completely refreshed in order for our growing team to get down to business. This included an all new layout complete with a jumbo work station as well as a “creativity charging corner” for thumbing through computer-free inspiration SO necessary!. A dramatic black accent wall, a custom brass pendant and spots on the walls for impromptu moodboards are just a few of our favorite details!!

You’ll want to stay tuned as we break down fresh ideas that you can easily replicate in your own space next week. We plan to dive into all of the ins, outs, sources and how-to’s. If there’s anything you spy that you want us to be sure and cover, just leave a comment with your request!

Until then, you can find even more pics of the office on VSCO Journal! We were thrilled to share insights from our design process and a bit more detail about the crazy world of running a blog with the VSCO team. The interview, with more of our makeover reveal and some never seen “befores,” is HERE. And a very special thanks to VSCO for the feature and all the AH-mazing products you produce that help make our photos so much prettier!!

Curious about what the Apartment 34 office looked like before? You can see last year’s studio tour HERE and my tips for making simple updates to your space on Refinery 29 HERE! I’m also be pinning to a moodboard inspired by our redesign with Blu Dot for the next two weeks HERE.

original photography for apartment 34 by Aubrie Pick

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Source: apartment34.com

Inspired Simplicity in this Fashion Designer’s Home

If you’re looking for inspiration to clean out some clutter this season, look no further than the home and studio of British fashion designer Anna Valentine. Bright white and decidedly minimal, the space had me with its flood of natural light and herringbone floors, but the subtle attention to detail is what makes…

The post Inspired Simplicity in this Fashion Designer’s Home appeared first on Apartment34.

The Most Beautiful Apartments in Austin

Discover the most luxurious apartments in Austin, where scenic beauty meets state-of-the-art amenities.

The post The Most Beautiful Apartments in Austin appeared first on The Rent. Blog : A Renter’s Guide for Tips & Advice.

The best hotels near Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood is surrounded by some of Los Angeles’ most iconic and well-known hotels. Among them, you’ll find everything from budget-friendly options to trendy LA hot spots, but one thing they all have in common is their proximity to the Universal Studios theme park. With the recent addition of Super Nintendo World to Universal …

Are they Real? The Picture-Perfect Houses of Wisteria Lane in ‘Desperate Housewives’

When we think of the ‘perfect’ place to live, few TV locations measure up in the way the houses of Wisteria Lane do in the long-running American comedy-drama series Desperate Housewives. And although this famous street and its residents saw more than their fair share of drama and tragedy over the years, (we’ll forever miss […]

The post Are they Real? The Picture-Perfect Houses of Wisteria Lane in ‘Desperate Housewives’ appeared first on Fancy Pants Homes.

Home Tour: A Bold Statement in the Sunset Bungalow

Hi friends, happy Monday! Last week you got a little preview of our Sunset Bungalow reveal, so today I wanted to dive into the details of the home’s color transformation. I can’t wait to hear what you think. As a reminder, this was our original color palette moodboard. Color is personal to…

The post Home Tour: A Bold Statement in the Sunset Bungalow appeared first on Apartment34.

Home Tour: Inside the Sunset Bungalow

For my home tour fans out there, this is your week. You’ve gotten a little taste of our makeover of the sunset bungalow my friend Chloe’s house here in San Francisco, but this week we’re bringing you the full tour! We’re kicking things off today with the living and dining rooms.…

The post Home Tour: Inside the Sunset Bungalow appeared first on Apartment34.