Moving from Austin, TX, to Las Vegas, NV

Plot your path from the Texas capital to Sin City 

One of the main things Austin, TX, and Las Vegas, NV, have in common is that both cities welcome a steady influx of new residents. Austin and Las Vegas are two of the country’s fastest-growing places to live, and Vegas ranks among the most expensive, according to U.S. News & World Report. 

Are you seeking a new home in one of America’s most popular tourist destinations? Learn how easy and affordable a long-distance move from Austin can be with expert help from U-Pack®! 

Let’s talk about the heat 

There’s no way to sugarcoat it: Las Vegas is hot — extremely hot — for most of the year. But unlike Austin, the desert climate of Las Vegas is tempered by much lower humidity. Vegas winters are short and mild, usually requiring no more than a light jacket. 

Even if you’re used to muggy Austin summers, acclimating to Las Vegas’ intense heat will take some time. Following these simple tips will help keep you safe and comfortable: 

  • Apply sunscreen often
  • Wear a hat and light, loose-fitting clothing
  • Stay hydrated (preferably with water or sports drinks)
  • Avoid excessive alcohol consumption
  • Keep your vehicle as cool as possible
  • Stay inside during the hottest parts of the day 

There’s plenty to do beyond the Strip 

If you’re accustomed to staying on the go in Austin — with its many festivals, events and endless live music venues — you’ll feel right at home in Vegas. Of course, the Strip gets most of the attention and is filled with entertainment and dining options. But consider these other activities if you’re looking for something different. 

Soak up the great outdoors 

You might be surprised to learn how much nature exists to explore in and around the area. Vegas compares favorably to Austin for hiking, biking and leisurely lake days. Discover a calmer side of Vegas at nearby spots like Valley of Fire State Park, Lake Mead and Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. 

Attend a festival 

Each year, Las Vegas puts on festivals that appeal to almost every interest. Major events include the Food & Wine Festival, the Book Festival, the City of Lights Jazz Festival, the Electric Daisy Carnival (a May weekend celebration of electronic dance music at Las Vegas Motor Speedway), and the San Gennaro Feast, which celebrates Italian heritage during family-friendly events in May and September. 

Catch your favorite sports live 

In Austin, it’s all about the University of Texas Longhorns, with nearby Houston also being a mecca for sports fans. But Las Vegas is a growing sports town with three professional teams — the Raiders (NFL), the Golden Knights (NHL) and the Aces (WNBA) — along with UNLV for college sports. And don’t forget the National Finals Rodeo, a massive event every December on the UNLV campus. 

Expect lower housing costs 

Neither Texas nor Nevada has an income tax, contributing to the popularity of both states among people looking to establish residency. Despite higher overall cost-of-living ratings, Las Vegas comes in lower than Austin on average rent (21 percent less) and average home value (34 percent less).  

Tourism drives the local economy 

While Austin’s industries are diverse, it’s no surprise that the Vegas job market is geared primarily toward tourism, hospitality and gaming. Education and communications technology are also major employers. 

Don’t gamble on your move — choose U-Pack  

Planning and executing a cross-country move is challenging enough without doing everything yourself. With U-Pack, you get the best of both worlds: complete control of your move while we do the driving. And it comes at a price that won’t bust your budget. Locate a U-Pack service center near you for details and get a free quote today!