Austin's housing market shows positive momentum with a 4.4% rise in July home sales and stable median prices around $435,000. Within city limits, prices slightly decreased to $577,000, while sales rose 11%. Travis and Williamson counties saw sales increases, but Hays, Bastrop, and Caldwell counties experienced declines. Austin leads U.S. metros in improving starter-home affordability, with income needed down 6.1% to $92,607.