The Austin-Round Rock 5 county metro area secured the #1 rank for Best-Performing Cities 2009, based on dominant economic performance. This study, released early December 2009 by the Milken Institute isn’t simply a marketing ploy by the Austin Chamber of Commerce; it is backed by a thorough analysis comparing the largest 200 US metro areas.
How does Austin’s economy consistently thrive? The obvious must always be stated~ it is home to the state capital and a major research university. However, there are other contributing factors to the ranking: successful recruiting of technology firms to Austin from the Silicon Valley (Corvalent); two Australian software firms (Interspire and Oxygen) who established their north American headquarters in Austin based on its strong talent base and low living and business costs; an entrepreneurial presence~ the metro area holds the fourth highest rate of self-employment in the U.S.; clean energy partnerships have landed in Austin to develop a leading-edge clean power system, green energy technologies and create jobs in the region. Lastly, although Austin did not experience strong appreciation in home values, it did not develop an overinflated housing bubble like many U.S. housing markets.
Austin consistently tops the Milken Institute list for Best-Performing Cities: 1st in 2000, 2nd in 1999 and 2001 and #4 in 2008. Furthermore, report after report in 2009 has clearly proven Austin to be a viable U.S. city that will continue to prosper in the technology and professional services sectors in the years to come.
Sterling Custom Homes continues to enjoy the success of Austin by building many custom homes for clients relocating to Austin.