Helpful Relocation Resources for Austin, TX Newcomers

Vehicle Registration

Visit the Travis County Tax Office to register your vehicle within 30 days of residency. You must pass an emissions inspection prior to registration and be ready to show proof of ownership and insurance. → TxDMV

Voter Registration

Register to vote—or update your registration—online at VoteTexas.gov or in person at the Travis County Tax Office. Texas has a 30-day pre-election registration deadline.

Utilities Setup

Austin Energy is the city's sole electricity provider—residents can set up electricity, water, solid waste, and recycling through the City of Austin Utilities. The primary natural gas provider is Texas Gas Service. For internet, major providers include Google Fiber, AT&T Fiber, and Spectrum.

Toll Pass

TxTag and EZ TAG are the primary toll passes for Austin-area roads. Set up online at hctra.org/Home.

Pet Registration

While the city doesn't require formal pet registration, rabies vaccinations are mandatory under state law, and microchipping is required by the City of Austin. → Austin Animal Center

School Enrollment

For enrollment, you'll need your child's birth certificate, immunization records, parent or guardian ID, proof of guardianship, and proof of residency. Magnet program application deadlines vary—confirm timelines here.

Charter & Private

Use the Texas Education Agency (TEA) directory to search for private and charter school options. Explore the Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) for private school financial assistance opportunities.

Higher Education

Major colleges and universities in Austin include the University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin), Austin Community College (ACC), St. Edward's University, Concordia University Texas, and Huston-Tillotson University. To qualify for in-state tuition at UT Austin, 12 months of established Texas residency is required prior to enrollment.

Child Care

Child care assistance is primarily managed by the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC).

Finding a PCP

Use your insurance company's provider directory to find an in-network PCP near your new address. Major insurers with Austin networks include BlueCross BlueShield of Texas, Aetna, and UnitedHealthcare.

Urgent Care

CareNow Urgent Care, Austin Regional Clinic (ARC), and Texas MedClinic are some of Austin's primary urgent care networks. Most clinics accept walk-ins, while others offer same-day appointments.

Mental Health

Major behavioral health organizations in Austin include Integral Care and NAMI Central Texas. For immediate crisis support, call 512-472-4357.

Pharmacy

Pharmacy chains with a strong Austin presence include H-E-B Pharmacy, CVS, and Walgreens. Free, generic prescription programs are available through the Medical Access Program (MAP).

Key Toll Roads

Major toll roads in Austin that newcomers will commonly encounter include Loop 1, SH 45 N, SH 45 SE, and SH 130.

Public Transit

Capital Metro (CapMetro) is the primary public transportation provider in Austin—offering a comprehensive bus system and rail line. Fares | Routes

Airport Access

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is the main airport serving the city, located just southeast of Downtown Austin. Major carriers include Southwest, American, United, Delta, and Spirit. Rideshare pickup is located beneath the Consolidated Rental Car Facility. Several convenient parking options are available.

Major Roadways

Key highways for navigating the Austin metro include I-35 (primary north-south), MoPac Expressway/Loop 1 (north-south), US-183 (north-south), and SH-71 and US-290 (east-west).

Homestead Exemption

Texas homeowners can file for a homestead exemption through the Travis Central Appraisal District (TCAD), which reduces the appraised value of your primary residence for school district tax purposes. Additional exemptions apply for residents over 65, those with disabilities, and veterans. The deadline is typically April 30.

Homeowners Insurance

Standard homeowners policies typically exclude flood damage, and while not required by the state, residents may want to purchase flood insurance separately through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)—especially if your property is at risk.

Vehicle Insurance

Minimum liability requirements for vehicle insurance in Texas are 30/60/25 ($30,000 injuries per person/up to $60,000 per accident; $25,000 property damage). Vehicle insurance policies in Texas automatically include Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage.

Address Updates

Key parties to notify after your move include the IRS, Social Security Administration, Texas DMV, voter registration, financial institutions, health and life insurance providers, and your employer.

Austin Non-Emergency

3-1-1 or 512-974-2000

Poison Control

1-800-222-1222

Travis County Crisis Line

512-472-4357

Emergency Alerts

WarnCentralTexas.org

Natural Disaster Info

The primary natural disaster risk in Austin is flooding. Other risks to be aware of include severe storms, hail, and heatwaves. → Austin Emergency Management Resources

FEMA Flood Map

All Austin homeowners should research their flood zone designation via msc.fema.gov to understand their risk.

Top Employers

Apple, Dell Technologies, Silicon Labs, and Oracle are some of Austin's top employers.

Job Search Tools

Search for Austin jobs on LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor, or check out local resources like Built In Austin, the Austin Chamber of Commerce job board, or AustinJobs.com listings.

State Job Portal

The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) offers state-managed job listings, unemployment benefits, and workforce development services.

Unemployment Benefits

If newly unemployed after your move, the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) administers Texas unemployment benefits. Note that relocation alone does not establish eligibility—standard requirements apply.

Professional Networking

The Austin Chamber of Commerce and Networking Austin are fantastic networking groups in Austin.

Staffing & Temp Agencies

Insight Global, The HT Group, and Scion Staffing have a major presence in Austin and can help connect you with temporary or contract roles for immediate income.