Relocation.com released an interesting new list a couple of days ago, naming Austin, Texas #1 on its list of "Top Cities for a Fresh Start".
This is an interesting study, and one which seems particularly apt considering the rough economic factors 
facing many parts of the country. The data includes some unique categories:
- Job Growth (Austin is #1)
- Home Affordability
- Volunteerism Rate
- Popularity for Relocation
The volunteerism rate was cited as a measure of the strength of the community. For this particular item, Austin was #5 on the list.
With regard to popularity, the article states:
We mined our own data to see where people wanted to move. We took that as an indication that these communities are seeing, or will see, an steady influx of newcomers. These newcomers bring with them new ideas, skills and outlooks that can help support the economy and that city's sense of community. This type of ‘churn' is vital.
To read the entire article on the Relocation.com blog, check it out here:
http://www.relocation.com/blog/relocationcoms-top-cities-for-a-fresh-start
Since 1997, I have specialized in helping home buyers who are relocating to the general Austin area. If you are looking to make a move in our direction, or if you need more information, please feel free to contact me anytime. I would love the chance to help. I can be reached anytime at 512-796-7653 (cell) or by email at jason@austintexashomes.com.
I have also gathered some previous posts of mine which you may find helpful as you are making decisions:
Austin Texas Relocation Package
My primary Austin real estate website is www.austintexashomes.com. Thanks for checking out this post - I hope to hear from you soon!
If you enjoyed this post, why not connect with me elsewhere or subscribe via email?
If you're looking for a home in the Austin area, you can also visit my primary Austin real estate website at www.austintexashomes.com. If you're interested in social media training, visit 210 Consulting. Thanks!
Jason, I have heard this term bantered about particularly in the business community in moving highly taxed high cost of living businesses in California to Austin. Great exposure for the city.
Jason,
Congratulation to you and all the other Rainers from Austin. Now you have something else to add to your community story. :)
Steve
Jason...
I need a fresh start! My destiny may lie in Austin!
This is a cool metric - I hadn't seen it before. Thanks for sharing it!
Relocation.com gets around! They are selecting the best real estate blogs in each major city and I was fortunate enough to have mine selected as one of the top ten in Los Angeles.
I'll bet you meet many former Californians---I'll keep you in mind if any members of my SOI abandon me and head for Austin.
You're going to market this to death too, aren't you? :)
A fresh start is always great, and if it doesn't have snow, even better.