Austin, TX

Austin’s housing market is in trouble

Published

8 months ago

April 24, 2025

After having pulled through a dramatic home price correction over the past couple of years, the former pandemic boomtown of Austin, Texas, is now navigating even more troubled waters, as buyers scared off by brewing economic uncertainty are failing to show up for the city’s growing housing supply.

“Our market here was showing signs of price stabilization after unprecedented declines, as buyers re-entered the market after the 3 percent interest rate ‘hangover’ finally wore off at the beginning of the year,” Scott Turner, founder of Austin-based Riverside Homes, told Newsweek.

“But the economic uncertainty caused by tariffs and the risk of recession definitely affected their mentality, making them more cautious and leaving housing inventory levels at nearly an all-time high.”

The downtown skyline on April 11, 2023, in Austin, Texas.

Brandon Bell/Getty Images

Why It Matters

Between February 2020 and May 2022, the median sale price of a home in Austin jumped by more than 60 percent, according to Redfin data, reaching a peak of $659,500. The increase was mainly a result of the massive influx of out-of-state newcomers sparked by the rise of remote work, which allowed many Americans to relocate to more affordable, more livable cities and turn their back on expensive metropolises.

But the Austin housing market, which had become one of the most overheated in the country, experienced a significant slowdown after the pandemic, with return-to-office orders affecting the number of people relocating to the Texas capital. With a few notable exceptions, home prices have been consistently falling in the city, year-over-year, since late 2022.

The City’s Boom And Bust

“The story of the Austin housing market is basically the same as the national story, just a bit more dramatic,” Austin-based Joel Berner, senior economist at Realtor.com, told Newsweek.

“Following the peak of the pandemic, there was a major run-up in home prices amid record-low mortgage rates as buyers rushed to snatch up homes.”

Eldon Rude, a longtime housing market analyst based in Austin, told Newsweek: “Texas was one of several Sun Belt states that experienced significant in-migration between 2020 and 2022, which resulted in an imbalance in demand over supply for homes.

“Such strong demand, coupled with extremely low mortgage interest rates, resulted in significant increases in home prices in all of the major metropolitan areas in the state.”

The median listing price in the city jumped from $369,745 in April 2020 to $625,000 in April 2022, an uptick of 69 percent in just two years. At the same time, inventory plummeted, though it quickly recovered to pre-pandemic levels by 2023.

“Since then, inventory has continued to grow year-over-year, and March 2025 had more active for-sale listings in Austin than any March in our data history,” which dates to March 2017, Berner said.

But buyers are not exactly jumping on the chance of buying a home, even with more options available on the market.

“Just because home prices are coming down and there are more listings, doesn’t mean that prices are affordable. So there’s still a supply problem in cities like Austin,” Turner said. “I think only 25 percent of Austinites can afford to purchase a home at the median home price.”

Rude said: “With interest rates now higher than they were prior to COVID, coupled with a slower economy and less in-migration into the state, there are now fewer buyers in the market, and what buyers there are face affordability challenges given elevated home prices as well as higher mortgage payments.”

Berner said: “The supply growth has softened prices, and the median listing price in March 2025 was $510,000, down 7.2 percent from March 2024. It has been a slow year, with 12 consecutive months of prices falling year-over-year. The correction has come for Austin sooner and more significantly than the national housing market.”

According to Turner, home prices are now stabilizing after “an unprecedented drop.”

Despite a gloomy outlook for the city’s housing market’s short-term future, Turner said Austin’s economy remains robust.

“Our real estate market is returning to a ‘new normal’ in terms of supply and demand,” he said.

That is—as long as the Trump administration’s tariffs do not massively disrupt the city’s market even further.

“Austin’s economy outside of real estate is fairly diversified and still strong, but neither Austin nor Texas are immune to the impacts of a recession or tariffs, in the case of home building,” he said.

“It will take time for our market to work through this inventory, but despite Austin’s growth, much of this inventory remains unattainable for most Austinites, particularly with rates where they are, making matters worse.”

The Ripple Effect Of Trump’s Tariffs

Turner said that existing homes currently for sale on the Austin market are not going to be impacted much by the tariffs, but these are still influencing buyer behavior, making them “more cautious.”

For new home construction, on the other hand, “the impact of tariffs cannot be overstated,” Turner said. “Significant cost increases, particularly in Texas, where we are more reliant on imported building supplies, combined with falling prices would be devastating, not just to Austin’s market, but nationwide. If it gets worse, homebuilding could be the first major industry hit by ‘stagflation,’”

It is not only tariffs that are causing concerns among homebuilders in the U.S. and Austin—but uncertainty over whether the president would stick to these tariffs or change his mind.

“As homebuilders, we can’t easily adjust our business to such sudden changes,” Turner said. “We are getting notices from suppliers every week regarding price increases.”

Berner said that the direct effect of tariffs on the Austin housing market has not yet been felt, “but as an area with strong new construction activity, the tariffs on Canadian lumber especially will work to drive up the cost of newly built homes in the Austin metro.”

In recent years, the economist explained, builders in Austin have excelled at delivering affordable new inventory to the city’s market, and the median price of a new home in Austin is currently lower than the price of existing homes. That is due primarily to where the new inventory is being built, Berner specified, in outlying areas of the metropolitan area.

“This will be jeopardized by tariffs, as builders will be forced to pass on additional costs to new home buyers,” Berner said. “What we will see even sooner is the indirect effect of the tariffs on consumer confidence, dampening demand for home purchases and leading to another slow year of home sales in Austin.

“Unless mortgage rates drop significantly, we anticipate that depressed homebuyer sentiment will lead to continued price depreciation and low volume of home sales in Austin.”

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Austin, TX

Austin Man Says He Has The ‘Scarlet Fever’ And It’s Going Around. Uh, Is That Seriously Still A Thing?

Published

5 hours ago

December 25, 2025

Press Room

Austin Man Says He Has The ‘Scarlet Fever’ And It’s Going Around. Uh, Is That Seriously Still A Thing?

An Austin-area man sounded miserable in his recent viral video discussing an illness he’s battling, calling it the “scarlet fever.” His video begs two questions: Is scarlet fever still around? And what’s really going around Austin?

“If you live in Austin, Texas, and you don’t have scarlet fever right now, good for you. Can’t relate,” a TikToker named Cole Marini (@cole_marini) says. “I was hallucinating last night. Hallucinating. I was 125 degrees. I was incinerating. And I was freezing cold. Are any of you not sick? I have the bubonic plague.”

The high fever claims of “125 degrees,” are hyperbolic, as a fever of 107 degrees Fahrenheit is typically fatal. And even though scarlet fever is still very much a thing, that’s likely not what Marini has.

What’s Going Around Austin?

Austin is currently seeing a sharp increase in influenza (or flu) and RSV cases, along with an expected uptick in COVID-19 activity. (COVID is here to stay forever, people.)

Interestingly, there have been upticks in invasive Strep A cases in Texas over the last couple of years post-pandemic. It is currently active in the community—but not to the extent of what occurred in 2023 in Austin. Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus) is what causes strep throat.

What’s The Scarlet Fever?

However, Mayo Clinic explains that “scarlet fever is caused by the same type of bacteria that causes strep throat.” The medical outlet also explains that “scarlet fever most often occurs after a strep throat infection” and that children are more likely to contract it than adults.

The tell-tale signs of scarlet fever include a characteristic red, sandpaper-like rash (on the neck and upper body), a red “strawberry” tongue that sometimes swells, and a sore throat and fever.

What’s The Treatment?

The treatment for scarlet fever is typically 10 days of penicillin, along with medicines for other symptoms during the course. If it is not well-treated or the full course of antibiotics isn’t taken, it can lead to other kidney and heart issues.

Viewers shared their own experiences with the rare illness and tried to diagnose Marini.

One comment read, “From an ER doctor in Austin – It’s *influenza* … welcome to flu season!”

“It was the escalation for me,” said another commenter, clearly finding humor in the video. “Scarlet Fever to bubonic plague is wild. Both aka the man flu. Drink your fluids. Stay away for others until your fever breaks for 24 hours. May the odds be ever in your favor.”

“Scarlet fever is from untreated strep and comes with a rash all over you. You got the flu. Stay hydrated buddy,” a third recommended.

“Omg I got scarlet two years ago and my doctor laughed at me bc he’s like ‘you’re the first grown adult I’ve seen in a long time with scarlet fever, what is this the late 1800s?’ while they shot a steroid in my hip. I hope you feel better!!” a fourth shared.

@cole_marini

Patch reached out to Marini via TikTok direct message for more information.

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Austin, TX

Christmas Eve In Austin 2025 – Events, Food, Fun & More

Published

17 hours ago

December 25, 2025

Press Room

Christmas Eve In Austin 2025 – Events, Food, Fun & More

Last Updated On – 23rd December, 2025

As the sun sets on December 24, Austin shifts into celebration mode. The air feels lighter, the city feels closer, and the night opens up with events designed to bring people together.

These Christmas Eve in Austin happenings offer the perfect way to spend the final hours before Christmas Day arrives.

And if you are looking for more ways to spend the break, explore concerts, pop-ups, markets, and local outings in our latest guide to the Best Weekend Events in Austin.

Editor’s Note: We strive to keep listings up to date, but details are subject to change. Always verify with event organizers or participating locations before heading out.

This article may contain affiliate links. Purchases made through them may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Looking for more holiday fun? Christmas Eve is just the beginning. From festive shows and light displays to family-friendly outings and seasonal experiences, Austin stays busy all week long. Be sure to explore our full guide to Things to Do During Christmas Week in Austin for even more ways to make the most of the holiday break.

Christmas-Themed Events and Holiday Activities

Merry Makers Market

Get ready for the second annual Merry Makers Market, hosted by Contracommon, where holiday shopping meets local artistry. This booth-style market will showcase art and handmade goods from talented Austin-area artists. It’s the perfect place to find unique gifts while supporting creative small businesses this holiday season.

Browse original paintings, prints, sculptures, jewelry, ornaments, homewares, and more from artists like Alison Lackey, Cara Jackson, Emily Tolipova, and many others.

Where: Contracommon, 12912 Hill Country Blvd f140, Bee Cave, TX 78738
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Free

Mozart’s Festival of Lights

Image credit: Mozart’s Coffee Roasters

Celebrate the holiday season at Mozart’s Festival of Lights, a brilliant spectacle perfect for the whole family.

Experience over a million twinkling lights and brilliant displays that offer endless photo opportunities.

Additionally, you can enjoy a holiday market, dine on tasty bites from vendors like savory Salt Lick BBQ, and treat yourself to delectable sweets and Mozart’s renowned hot chocolate. Live entertainment, including Texas and Celtic Christmas music, will play throughout the festival.

Where: Mozart’s Coffee Roasters, 3825 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, TX 78703
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Free

The Light Park

Buckle up, turn up the volume, and prepare for a dazzling experience at The Light Park! You will immerse yourself in a mile-long light show featuring millions of stunning LED lights perfectly synchronized to high-energy holiday music presented by DJ Polar Ice.

This resident mixologist spins re-imagined holiday favorites blended with fresh beats to keep the energy high from start to finish, and you can even tune in before arrival to set the festive tone on your drive to The Light Park.

From giant illuminated tunnels to towering animated trees and dancing reindeer, every night promises an unforgettable spectacle of color and sound designed to delight all ages.

Where: Dell Diamond, 3400 E Palm Valley Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Starts at $29

Ice Rodeo: Lakeside Ice Skating

Celebrate the holiday season at Four Seasons Hotel Austin with the return of Ice Rodeo: Lakeside Ice Skating! From November 21, 2025, through January 4, 2026, this lakeside retreat transforms into a festive gathering spot just steps from Lady Bird Lake.

Enjoy outdoor ice skating, themed skating nights, and cozy festive cabanas, all set against immersive décor that brings the magic of the North Pole to Texas. Then, savor seasonal menus featuring local flavors and create lasting memories in this vibrant holiday destination.

Where: Four Seasons Hotel Austin, 98 San Jacinto Blvd. Austin, TX 78701
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Starts at $35

Santa’s Ranch – New Braunfels

Image credit: Santa’s Ranch-Drive-thru Christmas Light Park

Drive along winding country roads at Santa’s Ranch and see over 3 million lights bring holiday magic to life. You’ll spot Santa on a four-wheeler, elves ice skating, nutcracker castles, and even Star Wars scenes, all glowing across a mile of festive displays.

A towering 50-foot Christmas tree will mark the entrance, welcoming you to this long-running holiday tradition.

You can then stop for hot chocolate, kettle corn, or pet-friendly treats at the concession stand and snap photos of whimsical touches, like Santa tossing footballs to reindeer or lighting a fire under a snowman.

Where: 9561 I-35, New Braunfels, TX 78130
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Starts at $37

37th Street Lights

Image Credit: 37th Street Lights FB Page

Step into the playful spirit of the season as West 37th Street bursts to life with bold colors, imaginative sculptures, and creative light displays. Here, you can see homes and yards decorated with fun themes such as Taylor Swift tributes, circuses, or Candyland, blending holiday lights with humor and DIY charm.

Aside from the lights, the community also sets up interactive stations such as the insecurity checkpoint, where you can share a secret, the manifestation station, where you can write a dream for the year ahead, and the beloved Stuffed Animal Petting Zoo.

The street stays open only to foot traffic, so you and your loved ones can enjoy an easy, relaxed stroll each night from sunset to 10 pm throughout December.

Where: 507 W 37th St, Austin, TX 78705
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Free

Zilker Holiday Tree

Step beneath the Zilker Holiday Tree and watch thousands of colorful LEDs spiral around one of Austin’s historic moontowers. You’ll see the 10-foot double star glowing at the top as the lights shimmer across the 155-foot tree, creating a magical scene that fills the park with a spirited glow.

For fun, try spinning slowly beneath the lights and watch the pattern swirl above you. It’s playful tradition since 1967 that keeps Austin’s longest-standing holiday celebration bright and joyful!

Where: 2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Free

Domain Northside Holiday Display

Head over to the Northside Lawn and watch the Holiday Tree light up with a dazzling show of synchronized lights, filling the air with festive energy. You can also catch performances each hour, with extended evening hours on weekends, and enjoy playful touches like the Gen Z Selfie Wall and seasonal photo spots.

You’ll also find Letters to Santa open until December 24, family-friendly activities (like snow globe making, face painting, and balloon twisting), plus ongoing giveaways and holiday guides for shopping and events.

Where: 11821 Rock Rose Ave, Austin, TX 78758
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Free

Family-Friendly and Kid-Focused Activities

Mozart’s Festival of Lights

Celebrate the holiday season at Mozart’s Festival of Lights, a brilliant spectacle perfect for the whole family.

Experience over a million twinkling lights and brilliant displays that offer endless photo opportunities.

Where: Mozart’s Coffee Roasters, 3825 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, TX 78703
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Free

The Light Park

From giant illuminated tunnels to towering animated trees and dancing reindeer, every night promises an unforgettable spectacle of color and sound designed to delight all ages.

Where: Dell Diamond, 3400 E Palm Valley Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Starts at $29

Ice Rodeo: Lakeside Ice Skating

Image credit: Four Seasons Hotel Austin

Where: Four Seasons Hotel Austin, 98 San Jacinto Blvd. Austin, TX 78701
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Starts at $35

Santa’s Ranch – New Braunfels

A towering 50-foot Christmas tree will mark the entrance, welcoming you to this long-running holiday tradition.

Where: 9561 I-35, New Braunfels, TX 78130
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Starts at $37

Domain Northside Holiday Display

Where: 11821 Rock Rose Ave, Austin, TX 78758
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Free

Free Events and Neighborhood Light Displays

37th Street Lights

The street stays open only to foot traffic, so you and your loved ones can enjoy an easy, relaxed stroll each night from sunset to 10 pm throughout December.

Where: 507 W 37th St, Austin, TX 78705
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Free

Zilker Holiday Tree

Image credit: Zilker Holiday Tree

Where: 2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Free

Nightlife and Adults-Only Christmas Eve Events

The Ugly Sweater Holiday Pop-up Bar

Jingle and mingle at The Ugly Sweater Holiday Pop-up Bar at Rules and Regs! Come dressed in your best festive attire and embrace the merry vibes, complete with kitschy holiday decor, lively drinks, and a fun seasonal menu.

Where: Fairmont Austin, 101 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Not stated

Miracle on 5th Street Christmas Pop-Up Bar

Step into a winter wonderland at Miracle on 5th Street Christmas Pop-Up Bar, the most festive and nostalgic setting in the city!

This Christmas-themed cocktail bar features dazzling wall-to-wall holiday decor, multiple bars, and a whole lot of Christmas spirits.

You can sip one of the many Christmas cocktails crafted by the jolly staff, take your next profile picture in Santa’s Throne, and connect with friends and family in the city’s most decked-out holiday bar, enjoying Christmas cheer as you’ve never seen before.

This is a ticketed event with first-come, first-served tables and seats. For parties of fewer than 8, you can skip the General Admission line by purchasing limited-quantity Dasher Passes!

Where: The Eleanor, 307 W 5th St, Austin, TX 78701
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Starts at $13.30

Where to Eat on Christmas Eve in Austin

If you’re planning a Christmas Eve meal out (or just want to skip cooking), these are five of the most popular, holiday-friendly picks featured in our 2025 guide: Kerbey Lane Cafe for a comforting Austin classic that’s great for an earlier meal, Waffle House for a reliably-anytime option when you need something late, Truluck’s for a special-occasion dinner with holiday vibes, The Cheesecake Factory for a crowd-pleasing spot that works for families and groups, and Din Ho Chinese BBQ when you’re craving something different that still feels festive. Since Christmas Eve hours and reservations can change by location and demand, always confirm before heading out.

For the full, verified 2025 lineup (plus hours and more options across the Austin area), head to our complete guide: Austin Restaurants Open on Christmas Eve.

Last-Minute Shopping and Store Hours

Need a last-minute gift, groceries, or a quick essentials run on December 24? Our 2025 guide highlights five go-to options that cover the biggest needs: H-E-B for groceries and holiday meal pickups, Whole Foods Market for prepared foods and nicer grab-and-go items, Target for gifts and stocking stuffers, CVS Pharmacy for prescriptions and late-in-the-day essentials, and 7-Eleven for true last-minute snacks, drinks, and basics when everything else is winding down. Most locations run on reduced Christmas Eve hours, so it’s smart to shop earlier and double-check your nearest store before you go.

For a list of stores confirmed to be open in 2025, along with expected Christmas Eve hours, visit our full guide to Austin Stores Open on Christmas Eve.

There are always festive events happening across the city during the holidays. For seasonal attractions and local happenings, explore our curated Austin weekend event picks.

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Austin, TX

Austin’s left-turn pilot program shows promising results

Published

1 day ago

December 24, 2025

Press Room

Austin’s left-turn pilot program shows promising results

AUSTIN, Texas — The City of Austin recently released a report about a year and a half-long pilot program aimed at reducing the number of left-turn crashes. City officials say the tools used in the pilot seem to work.

Left-turn calming treatments were installed at 16 intersections across Austin as part of the city’s Vision Zero program.

“We have some posts on a curb system and a low-profile speed cushion, which is high visibility, including at night, and they can extend to the crosswalk and also a little bit beyond,” said Michael Kiel, a program manager for Austin’s Vision Zero. “Or have a curb extension made out of white materials on the other side.”

The city adopted Vision Zero 10 years ago, aimed at eliminating traffic deaths and serious injuries.

“We’ve seen a 46% reduction in crashes involving pedestrians, as well as a 50% reduction in crashes involving pedestrians that led to injury,” Kiel said regarding the calming treatment pilot.

It involves leveraging highly visiblity posts to reduce the risk of pedestrians getting hit by a car making a left turn. It cost about $5,400 to install at each location.

“Building on our own research and that from other cities, we designed a pilot program to install low-cost treatments at intersections to reduce the speed and improve the angle that vehicles are turning left,” Kiel said.

The findings also revealed the treatments at each location saved more than $180,000 in crash costs, which includes emergency response, medical bills and other damages. Because of its success, the city may expand the treatment to other intersections.

“We find those results, as well as some video observation and engineering observation about turning behavior, very promising and encouraging to potentially use these treatments in different locations throughout the city,” Kiel said.

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