Austin is the Denver of Texas. Its pricey, probally the priciest in the state from what I've seen. But... BUT... still a bargain compared to the prices of NJ and NY Area (Long Island. 5 Boroughs, Hudson/Bergan NJ).
But from what I've seen, once u leave the city limits, its not bad at all.
Still, coming from the Tax Casino called NJ, still a bargain.
Literally, just look outside of the Austin City limits, and you'll find cheap ass deals for 2300 to 3000+ sqft, and nice areas.