Austin has steadily grown over the past twp decades, and it isn’t showing any sign of stopping. The city offers a strong economy, a positive environment for companies, and a low unemployment rate. These advantages also translate to considerable competition for businesses.
If you operate a small business in Austin, marketing with the right, smart strategy can help you reach a diverse pool of potential new customers — and keep you growing alongside our vibrant, young city.
Population Growth in Austin
Austin famously boasts a lively culture of world-class music, outdoor life, cuisine, and entertainment. These draw new residents to the city from all over the United States & the world — from not only other parts of Texas, such as Houston and Dallas, but also other states, including California, New York, and Washington. From 2021 to 2024, its population has grown from 2.12 million to 2.27 million, at a rate of 2% to 3% per year.
While this population growth has been exciting, the influx has also increased the need for new housing and raised concerns regarding the city’s changing face. Nonetheless, as more people move in, more small businesses keep popping up to meet their needs.
Business Boom: Companies Moving to Austin
Austin has long been home to large companies, including Whole Foods Market and Dell Technologies. Tesla, Apple, IBM, AMD, and Amazon also set up shops.
Part of what has attracted companies to Austin from other tech hubs such as Silicon Valley and Seattle is its lower cost of living, skilled employees, and business-friendly policies and incentives.
Independent, local small businesses also contribute equally to Austin’s economic and cultural vibrancy. The city offers various programs and grants to keep these businesses and start-ups thriving and competitive with more giant enterprises.
Economic Impact: Austin’s Expanding Economy
Population growth can revitalize areas and grow the economy by attracting even more new businesses.
Austin’s population boom has been a boon for the local economy. Between 2018 and 2022, the city showed growth in various economic aspects: 5% growth in educational attainment, 12% in infrastructure, 34% in trade exports, and 46% in gross domestic product.
The large influx of people also means a growing need for more housing. In the last quarter of 2023, the number of permits pulled for single-family homes was 25% larger than that in the last quarter of 2022.
The Role of Small Business in Austin’s Economy
Small businesses remain the backbone of Austin’s economy and culture. Owners of these businesses create job opportunities for locals, keep money in our community to help our economy thrive, and celebrate our region’s culture.
Small businesses need every advantage possible to compete with big companies entering this popular marketplace. So, they must appeal to customers in a way that is as unique as what they offer.
Why Local Businesses Need To Invest in SEO and Paid Search Marketing
To best attract and engage Austinites and compete with these large companies, your business needs to pop, especially online — where people often start their shopping. You can strengthen your presence online through search engine optimization (SEO) and paid search advertising.
SEO helps people actively looking for your services find you on the internet. Paid searches and targeted marketing help you stand out. Tapping into these strategies can keep you at the top of search results, boosting your name and local brand in a sea of corporations. Knowing how to reach your audience effectively can draw them away from competitors of all sizes.
SEO is a must to thrive in a competitive climate. Motoza is an Austin born and raised marketing agency, and we have helped multiple local businesses improve their online visibility to appeal to more customers. Contact us today and learn how we can help you.
Keep Austin Growing
Austin is a great place to start and expand a business. Our city’s unique, business-friendly culture has attracted new residents and corporations for the past decade. A Local SEO and digital marketing strategy focusing on Austin’s unique population and needs will help you engage your audience and bring them into your community.
As you grow your company in this crowded market, let Motoza help you use SEO and digital marketing strategically to find and engage your customers.
