Moving Checklist for Austin: What You Need to Know

Published on June 21, 2025 by

So, you’re moving to Austin? Congratulations. You’re about to become a part of one of the quirkiest, fastest-growing, most tacos-per-capita cities in the U.S. But before you start dreaming about brisket and Barton Springs, let’s slow down a bit. Moving—especially to a place like Austin—takes planning. A lot of it.

I’ve moved in and out of cities before, and trust me, without a checklist, things unravel fast. I once forgot my cat’s litter box. He didn’t let me live that one down. This guide? It’s your best friend for staying sane and semi-organized in the madness that is relocating to ATX.

1. Research Your Austin Neighborhood

Every Austin neighborhood has its own personality. It’s almost like dating—what’s a great match for one person is a red flag for another.

South Congress (SoCo) is all about artsy vibes, vintage shops, and late-night music. If you want walkability and can tolerate street performers with ukuleles, this might be it. North Austin? Quieter. More suburban. But with enough food trucks to keep your weekends exciting. East Austin is the gentrified rebel of the city—hip, rapidly changing, and full of energy.

Don’t just Google “best Austin neighborhood.” Take the time to ask locals. Or, better yet, stalk Reddit threads at midnight. That’s how I found out about a hidden gem coffee shop in Hyde Park.

2. Lock in Your Moving Date Early

You’d think finding a moving date would be simple. It’s not. Austin has peak moving months—usually May through August. And guess what? That’s when rent prices spike, trucks get booked, and temperatures hit “Are you kidding me?” levels.

Book your movers at least six weeks in advance. Want to save some cash? Try moving mid-week or mid-month. Avoid UT Austin move-in dates unless you love traffic and chaos. And if you’re planning a DIY move, get that truck reserved before someone else beats you to it. It’s Texas. People drive trucks like they’re phones.

3. Pack Like a Pro (or at Least Like an Adult)

Let’s be real—most of us start strong and then get lazy. The first box is organized. By the tenth? You’re tossing socks in with kitchen utensils and calling it a day.

Here’s what helps:

  • Label EVERYTHING. Even if it’s obvious. Future You will thank Present You.
  • Color code by room. Or by importance. Or just slap stickers on for fun.
  • Declutter before packing. If you haven’t used it in a year, let it go. (Unless it’s a waffle iron. That’s sacred.)
  • Set aside a “first night” box with essentials—toothbrush, toilet paper, coffee, phone charger, snacks. Especially snacks.

Oh, and for the love of brisket, don’t pack your moving day clothes. I once did that. I moved furniture in formal pants. Never again.

4. Utilities: Turn On, Turn Off, Don’t Freak Out

Moving to Austin means switching over everything: water, electricity, internet, and probably a streaming service you don’t even use anymore.

Set a reminder to:

  • Cancel old utilities at your current place
  • Set up new service in Austin 2 weeks before the move
  • Call Austin Energy and Austin Water—they handle most of the area
  • Compare internet providers (Spectrum and AT&T dominate)

Don’t assume anything gets transferred automatically. It doesn’t. And nothing ruins move-in day like no Wi-Fi and a fridge that won’t hum.

5. Change That Address (Before Your Mail Becomes a Mystery)

The USPS change of address form is free online. Do it as soon as you have your new zip code. It takes like two minutes. Less time than you’ll spend figuring out which box your toothpaste is in.

Also update your address on:

  • Bank and credit cards
  • Amazon and any other delivery service
  • DMV (this one’s not fun, but you gotta do it)
  • Your job (unless you’re trying to go incognito—then maybe hold off)

It’s weirdly satisfying to see “Austin, TX” pop up in your billing info. It’s like you’re leveling up in life.

6. Find Movers Who Won’t Break Everything

Austin has plenty of moving companies, from full-service fancy to “two guys and a rental van.” Choose wisely.

Read reviews. Not the 5-star ones your cousin wrote. Look at the 2-3 star reviews. That’s where the truth lives.
Make sure they’re insured. Ask what they charge for stairs. Some movers act like two steps are Everest.
Compare quotes, but don’t just go with the cheapest option. Unless you want your grandma’s antique mirror shattered in transit. (Been there. Still emotionally recovering.)

7. Prepare for Texas Weather (Spoiler: It’s Hot)

Summer in Austin is like standing in front of a hairdryer. On high. And it doesn’t stop blowing.

If you’re moving during the hotter months:

  • Start early in the day
  • Keep water bottles in a cooler nearby
  • Wear breathable clothes (again, don’t pack them by accident)
  • Turn on AC before the movers arrive

The sun waits for no one. Neither does the sweat.

8. Embrace Austin Vibes Right Away

Moving isn’t just about getting stuff from point A to B. It’s about starting over. So don’t stay buried in boxes. Step outside.

Check out:

  • Zilker Park for a picnic or nap under the trees
  • Franklin Barbecue (but arrive early unless you like waiting)
  • Local breweries like Lazarus or St Elmo
  • Live music at Mohawk, Antone’s, or even some random dive bar

You didn’t move here to sit inside. Unless it’s August. Then sure, stay inside.

9. School and Pet Stuff (Because They’re Moving Too)

If you’ve got kids, Austin ISD is the main public school district. Some schools are incredible. Some… not so much. Do some research based on your new address.

And pets? Austin loves animals. Seriously, some people have dogs with Instagram accounts and followers.
Find a vet near your new home. Register your dog with the city. And look up nearby dog parks—Red Bud Isle is heaven on four paws.

My cat? He just judges the dogs from the window. Typical.

10. Your Final Moving Day Checklist

Okay, now for the actual moving day. Here’s what you don’t want to forget:

  • Confirm movers the night before
  • Have cash or snacks for tipping
  • Pack a cooler (moving is thirsty work)
  • Double check nothing’s left behind—especially stuff in closets and drawers
  • Do a final clean or schedule a cleaner
  • Celebrate when it’s all over

A cold drink, some tacos, and collapsing on the couch in your new place—yeah, that’s the Austin welcome package.

Conclusion: You Made It, Welcome to Austin

Moving is rarely fun. It’s chaotic, exhausting, and stressful. But when the dust settles, you’re in Austin—one of the best cities in the country to live, work, and play.

You’ve done the hard part. You’ve packed, moved, and maybe even sweat through your favorite shirt. Now? Explore the food, make new friends, and figure out which BBQ joint deserves your loyalty.

One tip—never say you don’t like breakfast tacos in public. That’s just asking for trouble.

And hey, if all else fails? Blame the move. Even if you forgot to pack toilet paper. Again.