Cash Flow Investing in Austin, TX
Data-driven cash flow analysis for Austin, TX — score breakdown, key investment metrics, and how it compares to other markets.
Last updated: May 2026
Score Breakdown
Key Metrics for Cash Flow
Cap Rate
4.3%
Moderate
Rent-to-Price
0.39%
Below 1% rule
Vacancy Rate
5.6%
Very tight
Property Tax
1.82%
Above average
Cash Flow Investment Thesis
Austin tech-driven growth is real, but oversupply in the multifamily market has pushed vacancy up and rents down from 2023 peaks. Patient investors may find value as the market absorbs new inventory.
How Austin Compares
| Rank | City | Cash Flow Score | Cap Rate | Median Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #37 | Chicago, IL | 3.5 | 6.0% | $275,000 |
| #38 | Dallas, TX | 3.5 | 5.7% | $340,000 |
| #39 | Las Vegas, NV | 3.4 | 4.8% | $380,000 |
| #40 | Seattle, WA | 3.4 | 3.8% | $720,000 |
| #41 | San Diego, CA | 3.4 | 3.5% | $820,000 |
| #42 | Austin, TX | 3.4 | 4.3% | $450,000 |
| #43 | Baltimore, MD | 3.2 | 6.5% | $180,000 |
Showing markets ranked near Austin for this strategy.
Quick Math: Estimated Annual Return
Based on median market data. Your actual returns will vary based on specific property, financing, and management costs. Always run your own analysis before investing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cash flow score for Austin, TX?
Austin, TX scores 3.4 out of 10 on our cash flow score, ranking #42 out of 52 markets we track. Weighted composite: rent-to-price ratio (30%), cap rate (30%), low vacancy (20%), low property taxes (20%). Scale 0–10.
Is Austin a good city for cash flow investing?
Austin, TX ranks #42 for cash flow investing with a score of 3.4/10. While not a top-ranked market for this strategy, it may have strengths in other investing approaches.
What is the average cap rate in Austin?
The average cap rate in Austin, TX is 4.3%. The median home price is $450,000 with a median monthly rent of $1,750, resulting in a rent-to-price ratio of 0.39%.
What are the property taxes in Austin?
The effective property tax rate in Austin, TX is 1.82%. On a $450,000 property, that translates to approximately $8,190 per year in property taxes.
How does Austin compare to other cash flow markets?
Among our 52 tracked markets, Austin, TX ranks #42 for cash flow investing. Other markets may be stronger for this particular strategy, though it may excel in different approaches.
Does Austin meet the 1% rule?
Austin, TX has a rent-to-price ratio of 0.39%, which falls significantly below the 1% rule. However, the 1% rule is a rough guideline — individual deals can still cash flow well in this market.
Run Your Own Numbers for Austin
Use our free calculators pre-filled with Austin, TX market data, or adjust the numbers for your specific deal.
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