Even as the average U.S. home turnover rate remains at its lowest since the 1990s, Texas remains one of the leading states for new residents. An August 2025 study deemed Austin the biggest boomtown in the country, with significant jumps in population, housing units and gross domestic product (GDP) growth.
Austin, TX
Texas lawmakers address lack of regulations for driverless vehicles
Texas lawmakers talk safety of driverless cars
State lawmakers are working on ways to ensure the safety of riders and drivers sharing the roadways with autonomous vehicles.
AUSTIN, Texas – State lawmakers are working on ways to ensure the safety of riders and drivers sharing the roadways with autonomous vehicles.
A Senate transportation hearing held on Wednesday addressed the lack of regulation in Texas for driverless vehicles.
“To many of our first responders communities, this is new territory for them. They are not quite sure how to handle an AV. I mean pulling over an autonomous vehicle, you know, what do you do? An autonomous vehicle in an accident, what do you do?” says District 14 Texas State Senator Sarah Eckhardt.
“One of the key things is to prepare and actually submit and have a dialogue with first responders in this first responder interaction plan,” says Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association General Council Ariel Wolf.
New safety concerns about driverless cars
There are new safety concerns about driverless cars that are on the road in Austin. Federal regulators are looking into whether Waymo’s self-driving technology is actually causing crashes.
A senate transportation hearing focused on the safety of Texans using and sharing the roadways with autonomous vehicles, as the source of transportation continues to grow across the state.
“We have had at least 17 companies that have deployed or tested on roads here in Texas. As the technology matured and evolved, we fully expected that the laws would evolve as well,” says Director of State Affairs Alliance for Automotive Innovation, Nick Steingart.
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Transportation experts presented methods to regulate autonomous vehicles and companies if safety concerns arise.
“We propose an adjustment that would allow the DMV to suspend or revoke the registration of an autonomous vehicle in certain circumstances, providing the DMV with the ability to review registrations to ensure that applicable requirements are met. The process would apply to all AV’s regardless of vehicle class or use case,” says Wolf.
“Everybody is not quite as safe as others and if somebody chooses not to be a safe provider, then the state at some point needs to be able to be in a position to step in and have a set of rules to follow that everybody understands and everybody agrees on what the rules are to start with,” says District 13 Texas State Senator Robert Nichols.
Driverless cars coming back to Austin
The self-driving car company Waymo and the ride-share service Uber are partnering up to provide rides on the same app.
In 2017, Senate Bill 2205 allowed driverless vehicles on highways. The autonomous cars are required to follow traffic laws, have a video recording device, and be insured.
Since Texas enacted its AV law seven years ago, the state has become the center of the autonomous trucking industry in the United States.
“AV companies here have established commercial partnerships with major brands,” says Wolf.
Senators also addressed concern about the economic impact driverless vehicles have on the state.
“There is a growing and expanding driver shortage and so the way the industry looks at it is proceeding in partnership with the existing workforce and being able to fill existing needs,” says Wolf.
This month, Waymo did announce a partnership with Uber set to start testing at the beginning of the year, bringing more autonomous vehicles to Austin roadways.
A “for sale” sign is displayed near a home on April 24, 2025 in Austin, Texas. The Texas capital had one of the highest home turnover rates among U.S. metros between September 2024 and August 2025.
A new analysis by Realtor.com identified the top 10 U.S. metros with the highest real estate turnover rates in 2025 — and nearly half are found in the Lone Star State.
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But why is a high turnover rate a good thing? Hannah Jones, a senior economic research analyst at Realtor.com, breaks it down.
“Markets with higher turnover tend to function more fluidly than markets with lower turnover, with a healthier balance of active buyers and sellers,” Jones said. “The markets with the highest turnover are typically more affordable and supported by robust for-sale inventory, particularly from new construction.”
Here’s a look at the four thriving Texas cities.
4 Texas metros among top 10 with highest turnover
Among the top 10 U.S. metros with the highest turnover were San Antonio, Dallas, Austin and Houston — but such healthy growth didn’t happen overnight.
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“Metros like San Antonio, Dallas, and Austin have seen significant building activity over the past five years, which has helped temper home price growth and expand options for buyers, ultimately encouraging more frequent home sales,” says Jones.
Here’s what local real estate professionals had to say about each city:
No. 2: San Antonio
Daniel Cabrera, owner and founder of Sell My House Fast SA TX, attributes much of the area’s high turnover to job relocations and “equity unlocking.”
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“Corporate hiring and military rotations provide constant job openings,” he said, adding, “People in San Antonio are monetizing appreciation and resetting life logistics, not panic selling. They are selling to repay debts, relocate for their relatives, and escape the commute for more space.”
Sain Rhodes, real estate expert for Cleve Offers, also emphasized the relationship between demand and sales.
“San Antonio is a city where sellers are riding the wave of demand,” Rhodes said. “Last quarter, I personally relocated clients from high-tax states like California to San Antonio. Sellers are taking advantage of this window of opportunity and not waiting around.”
No. 5: Dallas
Dusk view of the skyline in Dallas, where the pandemic-era shift to remote work exacerbated already-high office vacancy rates. The same is true in other Texas metros.
Harrison Polsky, director of luxury sales at Douglas Elliman in Dallas, observed how rising home values were enticing homebuyers in DFW.
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“In Dallas-Fort Worth, we’re seeing a healthy increase in homeowners putting their properties on the market, which reflects strong buyer interest and vibrant market activity,” Polsky said. “Many people are taking advantage of rising home values to move into larger homes, upgrade to newer properties, or relocate closer to family or work.”
No. 7: Austin
The Austin Skyline from the campus of the Texas School for the Deaf, Oct. 7, 2025.
Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanSpeaking of rising home values and job relocation, those are also among the factors driving turnover in Austin — according to local real estate broker Noá Levy, of The Boutique Real Estate powered by eXp Realty.
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“During the [COVID-19] pandemic, Austin experienced rapid price appreciation, and many buyers moved here quickly and for many reasons,” Levy said. “In the last couple of years, political reasons, cost of living, desire to return to their previous areas, and even job relocation have been a factor in deciding to move away from Austin and Texas in general.”
Even those who bought before the pandemic maintain big equity.
“So people feel maybe now that interest rates came down a little bit, it may be the moment to take advantage of gains from the appreciation we saw from 2020 to 2022,” Levy added.
No. 9: Houston
The downtown Houston skyline is photographed from Sabine Street Bridge Thursday, Oct. 6, 2022, in Houston.
Down in Houston, the factors contributing to high turnover seemed much the same, according to HoustonHomeTools.com founder Ahmed Harhara.
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“A lot of people bought homes during competitive market conditions, and now that lifestyles or budgets have changed, they’re adjusting by relocating sooner than planned,” Harhara said. “Turnover doesn’t necessarily reflect dissatisfaction; it reflects how dynamic the market has become.”
Heather Shepherd, a real estate agent at Douglas Elliman in Houston, listed off the reasons she’s repeatedly heard from those selling: rising homeowners insurance premiums and property taxes; commute fatigue; lifestyle upgrades; and new-construction pressures.
“Some older neighborhoods feel squeezed or overshadowed, and builders are starting to buy the older homes for new construction,” Shepherd said.
Top 10 US metros with the highest turnover
The following table shows the 10 metros with the highest turnover between September 2024 and August 2025.
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| Rank | Metro | Median list price |
Turnover rate (per 1,000 housing units) |
| 1 | Kansas City, Mo. | $380,000 | 45 sales |
| 2 | San Antonio | $329,000 | 45 sales |
| 3 | Indianopolis | $320,000 | 45 sales |
| 4 | Las Vegas | $471,975 | 43 sales |
| 5 | Dallas | $425,000 | 42 sales |
| 6 | Nashville, Tenn. | $536,739 | 42 sales |
| 7 | Austin | $489.859 | 42 sales |
| 8 | Charlotte, N.C. | $438,348 | 42 sales |
| 9 | Houston | $358,000 | 40 sales |
| 10 | St. Louis | $295,900 | 39 sales |
The Texas Tech football team landed its first commitment out of the transfer portal on Sunday.
Kansas State transfer linebacker Austin Romaine announced his commitment on social media. A second-team all-Big 12 selection this season, Romaine joins Texas Tech with one year of eligibility plus a redshirt year available.
The 6-foot-2, 245-pound linebacker has been a fixture in the middle of the Kansas State defense since his true freshman season of 2023 — when he earned five starts and was named Big 12 defensive freshman of the year, an award he shared with his new teammate Ben Roberts. He started all 12 games in 2024 and had 66 tackles, six quarterback hurries, an interception and a fumble recovery in 2025.
What Kansas State transfer Austin Romaine brings to Texas Tech football
Romaine will likely be seen as Jacob Rodriguez’s replacement as the other starting linebacker next to Roberts next season. It would also indicate John Curry will remain at the STAR (the hybrid linebacker-safety position) in which he excelled this season.
For his career, Romaine has three forced fumbles (all in 2024) and had his first career fumble recovery and interception in 2025.
Updated: Sunday, January 4, 2026
Jump To: Full-Service | Affordable | Group
As the new year approaches, many Austinites are setting fresh fitness goals and rethinking their workout routines. Austin’s gym scene continues to evolve in 2026, offering everything from luxury athletic clubs to no-frills strength gyms and high-energy group fitness studios.
Whether you’re training for performance, looking for community, or simply trying to stay consistent, these gyms in Austin stand out for their programming, facilities, and overall value.
Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out.
Also, check out our articles on the Healthy Food Cedar Park, Healthy Food Round Rock, and Healthy Food in Austin!
Full-Service Gyms
Life Time
Image credit: Life Time Austin North
Life Time is ideal for those who want a premium, all-in-one fitness experience. Members have access to expansive workout floors, boutique-style classes, pools, recovery amenities, and family-friendly programming.
Where: 1301 S Lamar Blvd, Suite 100, Austin, TX 78704
Operating Hours: Saturday – Sunday 6:00 am – 10:00 pm | Monday – Friday 4:00 am – 11:00 pm
Gold’s Gym
Gold’s Gym remains a staple for strength training and general fitness in Austin. With multiple locations, members benefit from large free-weight areas, machines, group classes, and personal training options.
Where: 13435 N Hwy 183, Austin, TX 78750
Operating Hours: Saturday – Sunday 7:00 am – 9:00 pm | Monday – Friday 5:00 am – 11:00 pm
Hyde Park Gym
Hyde Park Gym is a longtime favorite among serious lifters in Austin. Known for its old-school atmosphere, it prioritizes heavy lifting, strength equipment, and a focused training environment.
Where: 4125 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78751
Operating Hours: Saturday 8:00 am – 7:00 pm | Monday – Friday 6:00 am – 9:00 pm | Saturday 7:00 am – 7:00 pm
Affordable & Budget-Friendly Gyms
Korrect Fitness
Image credit: Korrect Fitness
Korrect Fitness is a premier 10,000-square-foot training facility in South Austin that specializes in functional performance through small group conditioning, unconventional equipment like steel maces and kettlebells, and elite recovery amenities including cold plunges and saunas.
Where: 4401 Freidrich Ln, Unit 301, Austin, TX 78744
Operating Hours: Saturday – Sunday 7:00 am – 6:00 pm | Monday – Friday 5:00 am – 9:00 pm
Planet Fitness
Planet Fitness is best for beginners or anyone looking for a low-pressure, affordable gym membership. The gym focuses on cardio equipment, circuit training, and a welcoming environment.
Where: 1807 W Slaughter Ln, Austin, TX 78748
Operating Hours: 24/7
Anytime Fitness
Anytime Fitness offers 24-hour access and smaller gym footprints, making it a convenient option for busy schedules. It’s a solid choice for members who value consistency and flexibility.
Where: 8516 Anderson Mill Rd, Austin, TX 78729
Operating Hours: 24/7
FeV Iron Vault Gym
Image credit: FeV – Iron Vault Gym
Iron Vault Gym caters to powerlifters, bodybuilders, and experienced strength athletes. The gym emphasizes high-quality equipment and a no-frills approach to training.
Where: 2101 W. Ben White BLVD #105, Back of building facing Redd St, Austin, TX 78704
Operating Hours: Saturday – Sunday 9:00 am – 4:00 pm | Monday = Friday 7:00 am – 8:00 pm
Group Fitness & Specialty Studios
Orangetheory
Orangetheory delivers coach-led group workouts combining cardio, rowing, and strength intervals. The structured format appeals to members who want accountability and efficient, results-driven sessions.
Where: 401 W 3rd St, Austin, TX 78701
Operating Hours: Saturday – Sunday 7:00 am – 2:00 pm | Monday – Thursday 5:00 am – 8:00 pm | Friday 5:00 am – 6:00 pm
F45 Training
F45 focuses on fast-paced functional training in a group setting. Daily workout variations keep classes engaging, making it popular with members who enjoy high-energy, team-based fitness.
Where: 500 E 4th St, Austin, TX 78701
Operating Hours: Saturday 9:00 am – 12:00 pm | Sunday 9:30 am – 11:15 am | Monday – Thursday 5:30 am – 7:15 pm | Friday 5:30 am – 6:15 pm
Big Tex Gym
Image credit: Big Tex Gym
Big Tex Gym is a veteran-owned, old-school strength sanctuary in North Austin that provides 24/7 access to specialized equipment for powerlifting, bodybuilding, and strongman training within a supportive community atmosphere.
Where: 1921 Cedar Bend Dr A 130, Austin, TX 78758
Operating Hours: 24/7
Many gyms offer free trials or seasonal promotions at the start of the year, making January an ideal time to explore. And once you’ve locked in your workouts, you can also check out our weekend guide of activities and events!
Lacey is a freelancer and Austin local who’s always on the hunt for new restaurants to try, fun activities to do, and local events to attend. She loves sharing her discoveries with others through her writing and hopes her work encourages both visitors and locals to be active in the community. When she’s not writing, you can find her exploring one of the city’s many hiking trails with her Blue Heeler, Oreo, getting lost in a good book, or dancing the night away to some house or techno beats at one of her favorite rave spots.
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