Austin's median gross rent is $1,729 and the median value of owner-occupied homes is $555,300 (U.S. Census Bureau, 2020–2024), with 43.4% of housing units owner-occupied. These are citywide medians, not neighborhood prices or current asking prices. Verify any real estate agent with the Texas Real Estate Commission and look up property records at the Travis Central Appraisal District. This is general information, not financial or legal advice.
Real estate in Austin
Austin housing facts from the Census Bureau and how to verify agents and property records.
Austin housing at a glance
| Measure | Value | Period |
|---|---|---|
| Median gross rent | $1,729 | 2020–2024 |
| Median value of owner-occupied housing units | $555,300 | 2020–2024 |
| Owner-occupied housing unit rate | 43.4% | 2020–2024 |
| Median household income | $93,658 | 2020–2024 |
| Population estimate | 1,002,632 | July 1, 2025 |
These are estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau's QuickFacts; they are not asking prices or transaction data.
Renting or buying: what to weigh
- Time horizon: how long you expect to stay.
- Total cost: rent versus mortgage, property taxes (appraisals are set by the Travis Central Appraisal District), insurance and maintenance.
- Neighborhood fit: see the neighborhoods guide.
- Moving deadlines: register your vehicle within 30 days and get a Texas driver license within 90 days — see moving to Austin.
Check any agent's license: TREC License Holder Search. Property records: Travis Central Appraisal District.
Your options
Renting, buying and where.
Frequently asked questions
Is it better to rent or buy in Austin?
It depends on your timeline, savings and local prices. About 43.4% of Austin housing units are owner-occupied (Census, 2020–2024). We cannot give personalized financial advice.
What is the median rent in Austin?
$1,729 gross rent per month, according to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2020–2024 estimate.
How do I check a real estate agent?
Use the Texas Real Estate Commission's license holder search.
Sources
Facts on this page were read from the sources below on October 11, 2026. Hours, fares, prices and event dates change — confirm with the source before you travel. How we research and update.
- QuickFacts: Austin city, Texas — U.S. Census Bureau
- TREC License Holder Search — Texas Real Estate Commission
- Travis Central Appraisal District — Travis Central Appraisal District
- New to Texas — Texas Department of Motor Vehicles
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