Austin by the Numbers: Why 2025 Proved ATX Is Still That City
OHA Market Update Series - Jan 21, 2026
National: As mortgage rates stabilize and inventory continues to favor buyers, 2026 is shaping up to be a market defined by leverage and negotiation — especially in Austin. Buyers who are prepared and informed have a rare opportunity, while sellers need thoughtful strategy to stand out.
Local: In 2025, Austin landed on dozens of national rankings, topping charts for real estate resilience, job growth, affordability, and culture. From booming housing and thriving startups to award-winning barbecue and vibrant lifestyle, the Capital City continues to prove why it’s one of the most desirable places to live in the U.S.
Intrigued? Keep reading.
(4 minute read)
Austin Area Real Estate & Community Update:
Market Trends, Local News, and Neighborhood Insights
Austin in 2025: The Rankings That Prove ATX Still Leads the Way
Every year there’s a new headline questioning Austin’s momentum — Is it slowing down? Is the market shifting? Is the hype over?
And every year, the data answers pretty clearly.
In 2025 alone, Austin landed on nearly 40 national rankings and studies, touching everything from real estate and job growth to culture, affordability, and quality of life. As someone who lives here, works here, and helps people put down roots here every day, none of this surprises me — but it does reinforce why so many people continue to choose Austin.
Let’s break down what really stood out.
Real Estate: Resilient, Innovative, and Still in Demand
Austin earned the title of No. 1 housing market that has survived every crash — and is expected to again. That’s a big statement, especially after a few unpredictable years nationwide.
Other highlights:
One of the top metros where homeowners are actively selling, signaling movement and opportunity
Ranked No. 2 and No. 9 for new home construction, with nearly 29 new units added per 1,000 existing homes
And yes — this is also a city where you can buy a 3D-printed home. Only in Austin.
For buyers, this means options. For homeowners, it means long-term confidence. For investors? It’s exactly why Austin continues to stay on their radar.
Industry & Jobs: Where Careers Take Off
Austin claimed the No. 1 spot for launching a startup, thanks to strong business growth and a dense entrepreneurial ecosystem. But it’s not just tech founders benefiting.
Most supportive city for small businesses, with locals spending hundreds each year at independent shops
No. 2 metro for companies relocating headquarters
Top rankings for job opportunities, earning potential, and post-grad employment
Translation: people move here for opportunity — and they stay because it works.
Growth Without Losing the Magic
Austin was named a “Rising Powerhouse” shaping America’s economic future, with:
51% GDP growth
33% increase in median earnings
71% surge in new business applications
At the same time, it ranked among the best big cities to live in, one of the fastest-growing metros, and even earned a nod for having one of the least stressful airports (a holiday miracle in itself).
Wealth, Affordability & the Next Generation
One of the most telling stats? Austin is the No. 1 hotspot for affluent millennials — driven by job growth, strong employment, and income potential.
It also ranked:
No. 1 rental market for recent grads
Top 5 most affordable U.S. cities, when comparing income to cost of living
This balance — opportunity and livability — is what keeps Austin appealing to first-time buyers, move-up buyers, and long-term residents alike.
Culture: The Austin We All Love
And then there’s the part we already knew:
Best barbecue city in the U.S.
Most festive city (for the fourth year running)
A top destination for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone who just loves good food
One of the most fun cities in America
This is the Austin that makes the numbers feel personal — the music, the patios, the festivals, the food trucks, the neighborhood energy.
So… What Does This Mean If You’re Buying or Selling?
It means Austin isn’t just surviving — it’s evolving.
It means the market is active, resilient, and full of opportunity.
And it means that whether you’re buying your first home, upsizing, investing, or just keeping an eye on what’s next, Austin continues to prove why it’s one of the most compelling cities in the country.
If you’re curious how these trends impact your plans — or what neighborhoods, price points, or strategies make the most sense right now — I’m always happy to talk it through.
Because the data is impressive.
But the real story is the life you get to build here.
Ready to explore what living in Austin could look like for you?
Let’s start the conversation.
National Real Estate Update
Housing Trends, Interest Rates, and Market Forecasts
Staging a home can increase sale price by up to 10%
If you’ve ever wondered whether staging a home is worth the investment, the latest data from the National Association of Realtors’ 2025 Profile of Home Staging makes it clear: it often is. Homes that are professionally staged not only attract more buyers—they tend to sell faster and can even command higher offers.
According to the report, 29% of agents said staged homes received offers 1% to 10% higher than un-staged homes. Nearly half of agents also reported that staging helped reduce the time a property spent on the market. That’s a pretty big win if you’re looking to maximize both speed and profit.
How staging shapes buyers’ impressions
Buyers respond to what they see. The report found that 83% of buyer’s agents said staging makes it easier for buyers to visualize themselves in a home. Around 60% noted that staging impacts some buyers’ impressions, while 26% said it influences most buyers. Only a small 12% felt staging had no effect at all.
Certain rooms matter more than others. The living room tops the list (37% of buyer’s agents), followed closely by the primary bedroom (34%) and the kitchen (23%). Guest bedrooms and children’s rooms are far less impactful in most buyers’ eyes.
What sellers need to know
Even with these clear benefits, only 21% of sellers’ agents stage all their listings. Most focus on decluttering and fixing visible issues instead. Professional staging typically costs around $1,500, compared to about $500 when handled by an agent.
The living room is the most frequently staged space, followed by primary bedrooms, dining rooms, and kitchens. Staging can be paid for in different ways: either the agent offers the service, or the seller covers it upfront—though sometimes it depends on the situation.
The design matters
When selecting a staging service, quality of design is the top priority for 63% of agents, followed by price (51%). Furniture quality and customer service are also considered, though slightly less critical.
As Jessica Lautz, NAR’s deputy chief economist, puts it: “Sellers can easily overlook elements that might turn off buyers. Staging highlights a property’s best features and helps sellers receive the most competitive offers.”
TV shows aren’t everything
It’s no secret that home improvement shows have raised buyer expectations—48% expect homes to look polished like on TV. But 77% of agents say they aren’t staging homes just to mimic TV—it’s more about helping buyers see the potential of a property.
The bottom line
Staging isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s a strategy that can increase sale price, reduce time on the market, and give buyers a clear picture of what life in the home could be like. If you’re selling your home, investing in staging is worth serious consideration—it just might pay off in more ways than one.
Thinking about selling your home? Don’t leave money on the table—let’s talk about how professional staging can help you sell faster and for top dollar. Reach out today to get started!
Jennifer Carey
Realtor and Agent Success Manager at Open House Austin, real estate investor, and renovation enthusiast with Wimberley Airbnbs. She loves mid-century modern design, hiking Austin with her dog, yoga and pilates, and has been enjoying gardening at her new home in East Austin🎶✨
