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Never have been to Memphis so my opinion probably isn't valuable but I kind of like that the fact that it is an "underdog" so to speak. A lot of people focus on crime and poverty statistics, which is completely understandable, but they miss out historic neighborhoods, cultural institutions, local cuisine and community events etc. Also southern men are the best kind
Austin seems like the "golden child" so to speak of mid-sized metro areas, it has a surging population, diverse economy, pretty well-known signature events, it's a state capital and home to a very high-performing state university. It's definitely a healthier city than Memphis and as of now its future seems considerably brighter. That being said something about Austin irks me. It might be the fact that it's so wildly popular/over promoted and on every "hot city to relocate to" list.
As someone who has been to both, I would pick Austin anyday of the week over Memphis.
No kidding!!! OP -- no comparison. Austin is a bright, sunny, progressive city with great economy, and a lot 'going on'. Memphis is kinda grungy, soggy, river city with way too much crime.
Austin has all of the advantages that come from being a larger, more educated, and (slightly) more urban city, as well as being far more outdoors friendly.
Everything else I give to Memphis, and I think it has great potential.
People: Draw
Food: Memphis
Shopping: Austin
Scenery: Memphis
Schools: Austin
Mass Transit: Not sure, but probably Austin
Economy: Austin
Cleanliness: Austin
Crime: Austin
Brighter Future: probably Austin
Downtown: probably Austin
Overall livability it would be Austin, but just as Austin has some sketchy parts, Memphis has some nice parts to it. Outside of being the state capital and being the home of the flagship university, Austin doesn't really scream "Texas" due to its trendiness.
If it could overcome its poverty & crime issues, Memphis could be a global tourist hub (not saying it isn't already, but it could be so much more). It's the quintessential Delta/Deep South city that is deeply rooted in blues music (which later gave rise to rock) and BBQ. This is Americana at its core.
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