As the cultural, artistic, and creative heart of Central Texas — and maybe even the entirety of Texas — Austin is wildly unique and diverse. You may have heard about the food, the beer, or even the music. You may have friends who’ve made the trek to Austin City Limits or South by Southwest. You may have made that trek yourself. But…

What is it like to live in downtown Austin?

Let me set the scene:

You finish work early at your technology job which has a salary higher than the national average.

You decide to take a walk before going to your favorite barbecue joint, Franklin Barbecue — a place that’s been serving up brisket every single day for over 100 years — but back to the walk.

The sunset is radiant and the air temperature is ideal — 61 degrees — forcing you to take off your light jacket, which is surprising because it’s the start of January. And you say to yourself…

Wait, is this why Austin was rated the number one place to live?

As you stroll alongside the Colorado River that cuts across the south end of downtown Austin, noticing the calmness of the water, the austere beauty of the naked deciduous trees, you can’t help but hear the faint sound of live music.

As you meander further north into the city, you realize the music is coming from seemingly everywhere. Sweet arrangements at the Parker Jazz Club. Guitar riffs at Antone’s NightClub. And then hip alternative jams — by far your favorite genre of music — emanating from Mohawk Austin. And you think to yourself…

My oh my, the music is good!

It’s Free Week in Austin, a music festival from January 2-5 held at numerous venues across the city. You approach the music, mesmerized by the lively notes, the oohs and aahs from the audience and can’t help but feel wildly thirsty. This is a thirst that only craft beer can quench. Luckily, microbreweries jump out at you (approximately 50 in the area), all offering an ale (or stout, or experimental IPA, or club soda).

There’s just enough time for:

1. Bullock Texas State History Museum

Blanton Museum of Art

2. Authentic Tex-mex Food
3. Burgers at P. Terry’s, a local’s favorite
4. Jogging on the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail

5. And more!

Then the night ends, of course, with the juicy brisket from Franklin’s, staining your shirt and forever reminding you that you live exactly where you should. The thought comes to you if anyone else feels the same. A resounding yes! It can’t be overstated that…

Austin is all about community

Do you fit in here? Of course you do, and we can help you find your dream house or apartment so you can live in downtown Austin.

At the Texas 512 Team, we’ve worked hard to become the local experts on Central Texas real estate — let us do the work, and we’ll exceed your expectations.