This is completely off topic, but my wife and I are considering moving to Manor, TX for a job I was just offered. I'm a regular poster on the Rocky Mountain NP forum, since I live in Colorado, but I thought you guys could provide some insight. I'm looking for info about living in town, cost of living, etc...anything that would shed some light on this town on the northeast side of Austin. Thanks everyone.
Justin - I spent three years in Austin attending seminary. Cost of living in the Austin area is generally higher than most other places in Texas (except for food). It is becoming increasingly crowded and traffic can be a real bear at times. The area is essentially a three-season place, with very little winter weather (just the occasional Blue Norther). Summer seems to last well into Sept-Oct some years.
One thing they never tell newcomers is about cedar fever. Typically in January the cedars in the hill country explode with pollen. It can be so heavy it looks like the trees are smoking. Pollen counts go offscale at times (tv news faithfully reports pollen and mold counts daily). People who are sensitive cedar pollen often suffer terribly (I was one of them! It was like having the flu). There is also a lot of airborne mold that is really awful for those of us sensitive to it.
I cannot tell you much about Manor except to say I drove through it a few times. It is probably like most of the small towns in the area that have grown rapidly to meet demand for housing in the greater Austin area. Prices may be a bit lower than Austin or Georgetown, but don't expect cheap.
The Hill Country is very scenic is possessed of a beautiful all its own. It can be a great place to do photography. Lots of birds, wildlife and panoramic vistas for the asking. Lakes are bright blue and strikingly scenic. Lots of limestone outrcrops and hills, but no mountains. Just remember it is a semi-arid climate (except in Austin) and very hot in Summer.
Hi Justin,
Send me an email. I live in Austin near Lake Travis and would be happy to help (no, I'm not a realtor!). We are actually going through the process of moving a little out of Austin and buying some land. Would be happy to share my experiences.
Rob
tsip19@yahoo.com
Justin, most any statistic you would care to look at is here.
http://www.city-data.com/city/Manor-Texas.html
Cost of living is low, crime rate is about double the national average, snowfall is basically nil, etc.
You can also use this site to check up on your current location, comparison will let you know what to expect.
Good Luck
Posted by Darren Huski on June 18, 2009 at 11:06 AM
Justin-
Austin is a great city. Very young, energetic, and laid back. UT and its 50,000 some students are here. Lots of tech companies too. Great music scene. Traffic can be bad.
From a photographer standpoint, you are right on the edge of the Texas Hill Country. Great backroads and state parks nearby. Great rivers, hills, rock climbing, etc within a 100 miles. About 3 hours to the coast. About 8 out to Big Bend.
Thanks everyone for you input. I was originally born in Austin 27 years ago (things have obviously changed tremendously) and I spent my senior year of high school there as well, so I am familiar with the city. I feel like it is the best big city in Texas. It's no Colorado Springs, but no place is perfect. Thanks again for you insight...I appreciate it!
Discussion
5 repliesJustin
One thing they never tell newcomers is about cedar fever. Typically in January the cedars in the hill country explode with pollen. It can be so heavy it looks like the trees are smoking. Pollen counts go offscale at times (tv news faithfully reports pollen and mold counts daily). People who are sensitive cedar pollen often suffer terribly (I was one of them! It was like having the flu). There is also a lot of airborne mold that is really awful for those of us sensitive to it.
I cannot tell you much about Manor except to say I drove through it a few times. It is probably like most of the small towns in the area that have grown rapidly to meet demand for housing in the greater Austin area. Prices may be a bit lower than Austin or Georgetown, but don't expect cheap.
The Hill Country is very scenic is possessed of a beautiful all its own. It can be a great place to do photography. Lots of birds, wildlife and panoramic vistas for the asking. Lakes are bright blue and strikingly scenic. Lots of limestone outrcrops and hills, but no mountains. Just remember it is a semi-arid climate (except in Austin) and very hot in Summer.
Hope this helps a little.
Send me an email. I live in Austin near Lake Travis and would be happy to help (no, I'm not a realtor!). We are actually going through the process of moving a little out of Austin and buying some land. Would be happy to share my experiences.
Rob
tsip19@yahoo.com
http://www.city-data.com/city/Manor-Texas.html
Cost of living is low, crime rate is about double the national average, snowfall is basically nil, etc.
You can also use this site to check up on your current location, comparison will let you know what to expect.
Good Luck
Austin is a great city. Very young, energetic, and laid back. UT and its 50,000 some students are here. Lots of tech companies too. Great music scene. Traffic can be bad.
From a photographer standpoint, you are right on the edge of the Texas Hill Country. Great backroads and state parks nearby. Great rivers, hills, rock climbing, etc within a 100 miles. About 3 hours to the coast. About 8 out to Big Bend.
Just say goodbye to winter.
Good luck and welcome to Tejas!