Whether it’s the music, bats, food, or the University of Texas Longhorns, there’s a reason why 17 million people each year choose Austin as their travel destination of choice – and why thousands more move here each year.

In fact, both the worldwide Employee Relocation Council and Primacy Relocation, LLC have each ranked Austin first in surveys of the country’s “best large markets for relocating families.”

Finding a place to live is one of the most exciting experiences a newcomer to the Austin area can have. After all, Forbes has rated Austin as the top city for economic growth among the country’s largest 100 metros.

Top reasons for the honor include the city’s status as a tech hub, close proximity to universities, thriving arts and entertainment scene, affordable housing, and a growing population. With the help of a real estate professional and a little research, those new to the area can find a great home or rental in one of the Austin area’s many diverse neighborhoods and enclaves in no time!

Education has always been a central concern for Austin residents, but that could be because the city’s such an educated town. With scores of national accolades and strong community support, Austin’s a win-win proposition for education.

Forbes has designated Austin as one of the U.S.’s biggest “brain magnet” cities – the result of the magazine’s analysis of the 50 largest metropolitan areas and ranking them by gains in those with college educations compared to the population over 25 years of age between 2007 and 2009. Austin was one of the top cities with gains, scoring high marks all around."

When it comes to leisure, Austinites have a hard time with numbers. After all, there are only two days in the weekend. Trying to figure out how to fit in one, two, three, or more of the many exciting activities Austin has to offer into that one weekend can prove daunting. Should it be indoors or outdoors? Should it be on the water, on land, or even underground? Should it be in town, or an out of town daytrip? Some find that the hardest part of living in Austin is realizing that life may be too short to fit in all the activities.

The most difficult choice the new Austinite faces when trying to assimilate is “where to begin.” Perhaps you’d enjoy a trip to the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum, or a day of shopping along “the Drag” on Guadalupe. Want sports? There is the Round Rock Express minor league baseball or the University of Texas Longhorn football. Looking for culture? Austin has that too, with numerous museums, theaters, and galleries. Need to cool off? Lake Travis is a great place to spend the day water skiing, sailing, fishing, or just people watching.