Are you relocating to the Austin/Leander metro area? Chances are that if you are reading this blog you have already relocated to Austin, Leander, or in the master-planned community of Travisso. Or, you may be seriously thinking about relocating to the area. Either way when it comes to relocating there’s plenty of things that need to be done. Consequently, the best way to familiarize yourself with the area is to start with the basics. And, that means locating schools, shopping hubs, hospitals, government entities, and a job if you don’t have one.
After all, relocating to a new city isn’t easy. However, you can make it easier on yourself with a little preparation ahead of time. Online research is a necessity but it’s time consuming especially if you don’t know where to look. So, we’re going to save you some time. And, in the process make your transition a little smoother with our online resource guide to the Austin/Leander area.
Newcomer Information and Job Resources
- Austin Area Chamber of Commerce – Request a newcomer guide from the Austin Chamber of Commerce. This comprehensive guide covers everything from communities to neighborhoods, to schools and school districts, to moving tips, job hunting, shopping and much more. You can also find links to job resources and information related to the Austin Metro Area job market climate.
- Leander Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center – The Chamber cultivates Leander’s business community. Their website is also a trove of information and is a great visitor resource guide for Leander dining, entertainment, and attractions.
- Travisso New Resident Information – This quick and simple guide provides the information you need to set up your utilities.
City and County Online Government Resources
- City of Leander – For information about trash and recycling, water and wastewater visit the City of Leander website. You can also learn more about the history of Leander, its job prospects and the city’s demographics. In addition, learn how Leander is planning for future growth by reviewing its Comprehensive Plan.
- The City of Leander Police Department – The city’s police department exists to serve, protect, and promote a high quality of life to Leander residents and its visitor. Leander PD is also community focused and provides events such as a Drug Take Back Program, National Night Out and the Neighborhood Watch Program.
- City of Leander Fire Department – To learn more about the services provided by the Leander Fire Department go to leandertx.gov/fire.
- Travis County – Travisso is located in Travis County. The most important thing here is that if you are a new resident in Travis County or the state you need to register your vehicle. If you are new to Texas you will need to get a driver’s license and register to vote.
Planes, Trains and Automobiles
- Planes – Bergstrom International Airport.
- Trains – Capital Metro is the Austin area’s public transportation system. It operates the MetroBus and the MetroRail. Leander is home to CapMetro commuter rail station. The convenient park and ride station travels daily to downtown Austin on the 550 MetroRail Red Line.
- Automobiles – The Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT) maintains the state’s roads and highways. Driving in Austin can be difficult. So, arm yourself with a good map and quality information by visiting their website. It also includes apps, road condition information, updates and more. However, to drive on Texas Toll Roads you need a TxTag.
Schools and Education
- The Leander Independent School District serves the Travisso community. The top-rated district encompasses approximately 200 square miles and serves over 37,000 students. Travisso residents attend CC Mason Elementary, Running Brushy Middle School and Leander High School.
- For a list of both private and charter schools in Leander and Cedar Park here.
- Leander is also home to the newest Austin Community College Extension Campus. The San Gabriel campus will hold its grand opening on May 30. Classes will begin in the fall.
- For a list of preschools close to Travisso click here.
Additional Online Resources
- Emergency Centers and Hospitals. Emergency medical services in Leander is serviced by the newly opened St. David’s Emergency Center. Cedar Park Regional Medical Center, a full service hospital, is located in nearby Cedar Park. The city of Cedar Parks also houses additional medical facilities within the city’s boundaries.
- Recreation and Fitness. Though unpredictable, Texas weather is usually sunny and beautiful. That means there’s plenty of time for outdoor recreation and fitness. From running to cycling clubs, to golfing, kids’ fitness programs, Veteran’s Memorial Park, Cedar Bark Park and Southwest Williamson County Regional Park there’s something for everyone. Leander’s Parks and Recreation Department offers a multitude of family, adult, and children’s programs and services. Summer camps, aquatic fitness programs, youth sports programs and more are just a few of the many services offered.
- Shopping. Just minutes from Travisso. Cedar Park’s 1890 Ranch and The Parke has it all. Both shopping hubs are located on 1431 and including retail chains, home décor stores, restaurants, services, and a movie theater.
- Entertainment, dining, and things to do. It’s no secret that night life in Austin is sizzling hot. So, there’s no reason to sit at home. Check out these websites for the best options on dining, music, movies and much more: Thingstodo.austin360.com, Do512.com, Timeout.com, or explore the Texas Hill Country.
- Festivals. Music, arts, dining, beer, wine and more, the Austin area has a festival for just about everything. Check out a few of these popular “on the go websites” for a list of popular festivals: austinlocal.com, austintexas.org and the Austin American Statesman Festival guide.