Austin’s Music Scene vs. Austin’s Housing Market: Can the “Live Music Capital” Stay Affordable?
Austin has long been known as the Live Music Capital of the World…
but for how much longer?
As housing prices climb and affordability dwindles, the same musicians, artists, and creatives who made this city iconic are struggling to stay. At Open House Austin, we’re all about helping people find a way to make homeownership work for them, so let’s talk about the real impact of Austin’s affordability crisis on our music scene—and what you can do about it.
Austin’s Rising Costs: A Broken Record
For years, Austin had been the place where up-and-coming artists could afford a cheap rent, play gigs at local venues, and build their careers. But with home prices skyrocketing and rent following suit, we’re watching a shift: the same people who made Austin cool can’t afford to live here anymore.
• The median home price in Austin? Still hovering above $450K in many areas.
• Rent prices have cooled slightly but are still far from cheap for most working musicians.
• Cost of living? Higher than ever.
While major events like SXSW bring in cash, the reality is that many local musicians see only a fraction of that economic boost. Instead, corporate interests and deep-pocketed investors are snapping up real estate while creatives get priced out.
Can Musicians (and regular folks) still buy in Austin?
Yes—but it takes smart strategy, the right guidance, and knowing where to look.
Here’s how:
1. Think Beyond the Core
If buying in the heart of Austin isn’t doable, there are still great options in nearby areas like Pflugerville, Manor, or South Austin—places where you can still find a home without selling your soul (or your entire merch inventory).
2. Explore Creative Financing
You don’t need a massive down payment to buy a home. FHA loans, down payment assistance programs, and house hacking strategies (like renting a room or adding an ADU) can help make homeownership more realistic.
3. Lock in Stability
While rent prices can fluctuate (and landlords can sell from under you), buying a home means locking in a monthly payment and investing in your future. It’s the best way to fight against Austin’s affordability rollercoaster.
Austin’s Music Scene Deserves a Future
If we want Austin to stay the Live Music Capital, we need to make sure musicians can afford to live here. That means pushing for better policies, advocating for affordable housing, and helping people find creative ways to buy homes before they get priced out completely.
At Open House Austin, we’re all about empowering people to build wealth through real estate—without losing the spirit of what makes this city great. Whether you’re a musician, an artist, or just someone who loves the creative energy of Austin, we want to help you find a way to stay.
Want to talk options? Let’s chat. Your dream of homeownership in Austin isn’t out of reach—we just need to get creative. 🎸🏡
☎️ Contact us and let’s make a plan or attend an upcoming free, in-person workshop at our community space on the eastside.
