Why Thrift Shopping in Austin is So Damn Good

1. Buffalo Exchange – Guadalupe Street

Let’s start with a classic. Buffalo Exchange isn’t exclusive to Austin, but this location near UT’s campus has such a cool vibe. It's packed with trendy secondhand clothes, perfect for college kids, hip creatives, and anyone trying to build a killer outfit without spending a fortune.

They’ve got racks organized by color (which I LOVE), a good mix of brands like Urban Outfitters, Madewell, and vintage finds from the '70s or '80s. Bonus: You can bring your clothes to trade for store credit or cash on the spot.

Insider tip: Hit up this store midweek to avoid the weekend rush. And yes, the fitting rooms can get busy, but they’re totally worth the wait.

2. Treasure City Thrift – East 7th

Now here’s a gem. Treasure City is a tiny shop, but it’s got a big heart. It’s collectively run and all about community and sustainability. Prices are super affordable, like jeans for $ 5, kind of affordable. And a good chunk of their profits go to local activist groups, which makes shopping here feel even better.

The vibe is funky and eclectic. You’ll find everything from worn-in flannels and leather boots to retro glassware and random oddities (taxidermy duck, anyone?). There’s even a pay-what-you-can rack sometimes.

It’s one of those places where you never know what you’ll find, and that’s what makes it so fun.

3. Room Service Vintage – North Loop

If you love mid-century furniture, kitschy kitchenware, and Elvis-era collectibles, this is your spot. Room Service Vintage feels like stepping into a curated time capsule of cool. It’s part thrift, part antique, and 100% Austin.

The store is huge, and it’s easy to spend hours browsing through velvet armchairs, lava lamps, bar carts, and old-school board games. They've also got racks of vintage clothing, jewelry, and funky accessories that’ll make you want to throw a themed party just to wear them.

Pro tip: The turnover here is quick, so if you see something you like, snag it. It probably won’t be there next time.

4. Pavement – Guadalupe Street

Pavement is like Buffalo Exchange’s cooler, more curated sibling. It’s super organized, clean, and has that perfect mix of on-trend pieces and vintage finds. Think oversized denim jackets, Doc Martens, silk blouses, and cowboy boots that look like they were made for dancing on a bar.

What’s cool about Pavement is that it feels like a boutique, but it’s all secondhand. The lighting’s good, the music’s vibey, and it doesn’t feel like you’re digging through clutter. It’s the kind of place you go when you want something specific and don’t want to spend three hours hunting it down.

Also, they have a loyalty program, and who doesn’t love getting rewarded for shopping sustainably?

5. Blue Velvet – North Loop

Blue Velvet is an Austin institution. It’s quirky, colorful, and the staff is friendly without being pushy (bless). The clothes here skew toward true vintage, with a killer selection of dresses, jackets, and accessories from the ‘50s through the ‘90s.

They also carry fun costume pieces and some handmade items, which makes it the perfect stop if you’re planning your outfit for a music festival, themed party, or Halloween.



And yes, they have a killer collection of belts. Not sure why belts are so hard to find at other places, but Blue Velvet has you covered.

6. Austin Pets Alive! Thrift – Burnet Road

Okay, animal lovers, this one’s for you. Austin Pets Alive! Thrift isn’t just a great thrift store, it also supports one of the city’s most beloved animal rescues. Every dollar you spend helps support homeless pets. Cute clothes and cute animals? Say no more.

The store is clean, well-organized, and full of great finds: home décor, books, clothes, accessories, even pet supplies. And since it’s a bit more low-key than some of the trendier spots, you can score some real deals here.



They also host fun sales and events, so it’s worth checking their social media before you go.

7. Top Drawer Thrift – Burnet Road

Another favorite on Burnet, Top Drawer Thrift, is run by Project Transitions and supports people living with HIV/AIDS. So not only is this shop full of rad secondhand stuff, but your purchases go toward a really important cause.



Inside, you’ll find clothing for all genders, shoes, vintage furniture, books, vinyl, and random goodies like old cameras and typewriters. It's got a fun mix of retro and contemporary, and prices are more than fair.

The staff is warm and welcoming, and it’s just a cozy place to shop plus, they often have sales and rotating discounts that make the deals even sweeter.

8. Thrift Town – South Lamar

Thrift Town is one of those places that doesn’t try to be hip, it's just genuinely good. It’s big, it’s packed with everything under the sun, and the prices are awesome. You can find clothing, housewares, toys, kitchen stuff, and honestly? It’s kind of overwhelming in the best way.

This is the spot to go if you’re furnishing an apartment on a budget or trying to piece together a last-minute Halloween costume. It's not curated, but that’s what makes the good finds feel extra satisfying.

Oh, and they have color tag sales every day, which makes the deals even better.

9. Goodwill Blue Hanger Outlet – Burleson Road

Alright, buckle this one’s for the hardcore thrifters. The Goodwill Blue Hanger is also known as "the bins." And yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like: giant bins full of unsorted clothes, shoes, and random items that you dig through by hand.

It’s not glamorous. You’ll want gloves. Maybe even headphones and a podcast. But the prices? Unreal. You pay by the pound. If you’re a reseller, a fashion student, or just someone who lives for the thrill of the hunt, this place is heaven.

Just don’t go in expecting to be in and out in 15 minutes. Give yourself time and energy. Maybe grab a snack beforehand. (I had Farmer Jon's popcorn once in the parking lot, and it was the perfect pre-thrift fuel.)

10. Out of the Past – South First

Want to feel like you’ve just walked into a movie set? Head to Out of the Past. This little vintage shop is packed to the ceiling with retro fashion, old records, funky lamps, and all the nostalgic goodness your heart can handle.



The clothes lean heavily vintage, think ‘40s suits, ‘60s party dresses, and ‘70s polyester everything. The owner is usually there, and she’s a total delight who knows everything about everything in the store.

It’s not the cheapest place, but it’s curated with care. Think of it more like a vintage boutique than a classic thrift store.

11. IREP Resale – South Congress

Let’s shine the spotlight on a hidden hero in South Austin. IREP Resale is not just a thrift store—it is a mission disguised as a shopping experience. Short for I Recycle Everything Possible, IREP leads the charge in creating a circular economy. Through IREP Junk Removal, the team clears out unwanted items from homes and businesses, then recycles, reuses, donates, or properly disposes of everything using local Austin resources.

From clothes and furniture to plastic bags, batteries, and Styrofoam, IREP gives new life to what others throw away.

This woman-owned powerhouse redefines “secondhand” with purpose. Inside, you will find stylish vintage pieces, discounted name-brand clothing, a FREE section, and even a Pop-A-Shot basketball game where you can score extra deals. Prices drop regularly, inventory changes weekly, and the vibe? Pure eco-hero meets treasure hunt.

They also host monthly community events, accept hard-to-recycle donations, and throw an epic annual fundraiser. Shopping here feels like stepping into your coolest friend’s house—if your friend were an eco-warrior with a killer eye for deals and design.

A Few Thrifting Tips for Your Austin Adventures

Let’s be honest: Thrifting can be a lot. Here are a few tips to make your secondhand shopping experience smoother and way more fun:



• Go often: Inventory changes all the time, so don’t give up if you don’t score on your first visit.
• Wear comfy clothes: Especially if you’re trying things on or digging through bins.
• Bring cash: Some of the smaller shops are cash-only or give you a discount if you pay that way.
• Be open-minded: Try on that funky jacket. Pick up that weird lamp. The best thrift scores are the ones you didn’t expect.
• Wash everything: Just do it. Even if it looks clean.
• Support the cause: Many thrift stores in Austin support nonprofits and community programs. Shopping here really does make a difference.
• Bring a buddy: Two sets of eyes are better than one, especially when you’re on a mission to save the world, one recycled treasure at a time.
  

Thrifting for a Greener Austin

Every time you choose to shop secondhand, you’re making a small but meaningful impact. You’re keeping clothes out of landfills, reducing demand for new manufacturing, supporting local businesses and charities, and building a community that values creativity, compassion, and the planet.

In a city like Austin, where people care about sustainability, creativity, and community, thrifting isn’t just a hobby, it’s a way of life. Plus, it’s just plain fun. You get to express your style, hunt for treasures, and maybe even find that perfect pair of boots or that weird but wonderful coffee table you didn’t know you needed.

The city’s thrift stores may have different vibes, but they all share the same goal: to give good stuff a second chance, and that is worth celebrating.

So, whether you’re sifting through bins at the Blue Hanger, scoring velvet couches at Room Service Vintage, or shooting hoops for a discount at IREP Resale, just remember: every purchase is a vote for a cleaner, cooler, more connected world.

Happy thrifting, eco-heroes.