You should absolutely live in West End/Federal near Dexter Park. The Westminster/Broadway zone. It’s the “coolest” neighborhood in Providence, so coming from Austin won’t be as much of a shock, the park is great for walking dogs, plus there’s the bell street dog park. If you’re north of Cranston Street it’s NOT sketchy.

As for the east side: unless you’re RIGHT in Hope Village or right off of Wickenden, the east side is going to feel dusty, lame, and disappointing coming from Austin. Plus, the west side is more affordable.