In a Top Ten list released today by Forbes.com, Austin, Texas was named the #2 most family-friendly city in the United States!
Having lived in this area since 1988, and as a father of three now, I can attest to this fact. I often tell my clients who are relocating that Austin is a terrific place to start and raise a family.
This particular study focused on affordability for families. To rank the affordability of the country's 40 largest metropolitan statistical areas, Forbes.com used the Economic Policy Institute's Basic Family Budget Calculator.
Austin posted the following numbers in the story:
Median Annual Family Income: $66,064
Average Annual Family Budget: $42,220
Budget as Percent of Income: 64%
The top city was a surprise to me - San Jose, California was at 55% for the last figure.
The entire article is here, and it includes links to all of the cities on the list, as well as those considered to be "least family friendly":
http://www.forbes.com/2008/12/02/cities-ten-budget-forbeslife-cx_fl_1202realestate.html
One of the major reasons that Austin consistently gets buyers who want to relocate here is the fact that homes remain imminently affordable overall, with an average sales price in the low $200's for the metro area.
If you are considering a move to Austin, Texas, I would love the opportunity to help you find the right home. Our Austin TX real estate website is www.austintexashomes.com. You might also be interested in checking out my online relocation package right here:
Austin Texas Relocation Package
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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!
Wow, it looks so green in that picture of Austin which is not how I picture nay place in TX. I really need to get there some time! That article was interesting. I was surprised by Las Vegas' ranking as I have always heard that it was a very affordable place to live.
Interesting List - It includes St. Louis and Kansas City which have always been good towns for families. The list did raise some eyebrows with the inclusion of San Jose and SanFrancisco in the top 10.
Hi Jason... I have lived in quite a few cities and I would have to say that Austin is the one that always seemed to be the most family friendly and family oriented. Congrats!
Jason, thanks for the article, somehow I had missed this one. Austin surely is a wonderful place to live and work. We are blessed indeed.
Jason, What an honor for Austin! This distinction will make a nice addition to your marketing material.
I love San Jose but there is a charm about Austin you cannot find anywhere else.
Hi Jason,
A great bit of information to use in marketing!
Jason,
This is a great tribute to the city and one that is well deserved. Congratulations sir.
Jason it is great that you area seems to get so many awards. I am sure that help with business.
Yeah, yeah. We know. Austin's great. Sheesh. Do you have to keep rubbing it in our faces? =P Once again, I'm leaving you a thought-provoking, sensitive comment. LOL!
Jason, this high ranking does not surprise me. Austin is a fantastic place to live and is one of the most naturally beautiful cities in Texas with the lake and rolling hills.
I felt like saying "stick it" just to get conflict and having you jump back on me, but I really can't. Congrats though.....nice feather to have in your cap.
Jason - Congratulations! That's a pretty great distinction to have and share with potential clients... :)
How awesome for Austin, Congrats!