Austin, Texas is just about the “coolest” of the “cool cities” in the US. With a vibe that richly embraces new ideas and an easy-going attitude toward diverse people and various ways of living out those ideas, Austin is an accepting and welcoming natural lure for newcomers. It is a tough city to beat if you’re searching for the most caring, people-centric environment. Here’s why.

Disclaimer: This post is a collaboration

Community And Caring Come First

The city of Austin can be summed up in one simple word, “embracing.” Not only are all genres of artists and musical groups freely invited to share their talent, but diverse heavy-duty philosophers, freedom-of-speech embracers, and cultural movers-and-shakers are given welcome words as soon as they appear in Austin.

Exploring the reasons behind the generosity of heart demonstrated by those who call Austin home, one doesn’t have to look too far. There is an emphasis on the goodness of life itself and, by embracing everyone wholeheartedly, there is a peaceful ambiance that permeates the communities within Austin. 

Creativity Is Alive And Encouraged In Austin

One of the newest, most highly-prized venues in Austin confirms the spirit of the city. The LifeAustin Amphitheatre is often rocking to the sounds of faith-filled musical artists performing while encouraging their audience to sing along in an unscripted, touchingly off-key choir.

The Life Austin Amphitheatre invites iconic singers, such as Michael W. Smith and Steven Curtis Chapman, into the venue and you’ll find the Charlie Daniels Band tossed in the calendar to sing classic country songs, as well. The city of Austin embraces a wide variety of performers that provide evenings of entertainment along with uplifting songs and long-cherished memories. 

Innovation And Diverse Opportunities Are Targets For Growth

Although the people of Austin love their laid-back and comfortable leisurely hours, they also work like there’s no tomorrow in the specific industries that have built this city. Austin is the home of several tech-centered organizations and is known for the startup hubs that encourage innovation in multiple arenas of industry.

Austin knows how to relax and, equally important, the people of Austin know how to work hard. Long days on laptops may be remote or in the brick-and-mortar buildings, but they are long regardless, and this is a primary reason why the residents of Austin enjoy getting out to find personal fulfillment in the environment and cultural events so much. 

Enjoyment Of Everything Local Keeps Austin Weird

A question often heard by visitors to Austin residents provokes laughter in return. The question they are referring to is the Austin motto, “Keep Austin Weird” and it is an unusual motto for a beautiful, artisan-filled city. The answer? The motto was devised in 2000 by local businesses who noted that the city was growing rapidly and the demographics were changing.

A local librarian at Austin Community College, Red Wassenrich, invented the phrase and it became embraced as a city motto by the local businesses to emphasize the unusual creativity and diverse opportunities found in Austin. The city motto is still used today. 

Inquisitive, Athletic & Modern: How Does Austin Fit In The State Of Texas?

Texas isn’t known for a liberal, right-leaning agenda in government or in lifestyle choices. It is a conservative, family-first, and faith-filled state of conservative residents. With several key differences apparent in Austin lifestyles and ideologies, how does the city of Austin “fit” in this state?

In short, the city of Austin doesn’t fit. It is an unusually open city with a benevolent attitude toward those who have divergent faiths, practices or beliefs. However, it is also a city filled with amazing artwork, outstanding performers, big dreamers and those who get things done in business. Somehow, in ways beyond explaining, the city of Austin folds seamlessly into the state of Texas. 

From Coffee to Cowboy Churros: The Favorites Of Austin 

Finally, there cannot be a discussion of the rich life found in Austin, Texas without a callout to the favorite eateries, coffee shops and cowboy hangouts found within Austin. For coffee lovers, look no further than Mozarts or Medici. Rich, dark and full-bodied coffee awaits your empty cup (and bringing your own cup is the best way to support sustainable living in Austin).

For desserts or other treats, try the Texas Two Stop at Ira & Bev’s Food Park. This luscious frozen surprise is a chocolate-covered banana rolled in pecans, packed in toffee, dusted in cinnamon, and coated with a peanut butter drizzle. What more could any cowboy want?

The Churro Company Dessert Shop & Bakery offers a tempting answer to this question in their Campfire churro plate, which features two churros bulging with finely-chopped graham crackers and tiny marshmallows, topped with a dark, rich Mexican chocolate sauce and, oh yes, mounds of whipped cream. 

Whether you are searching for a soul-satisfying evening in the Austin Life Amphitheatre, employment in a liberal-minded think tank, or a walk through the favorite small shops and eateries of this city, Austin is for everyone. Enjoy!