Hey, I'm in Austin. I've been commuting 2ce a week 29 miles round trip during the summer. The heat is surprisingly bearable and the city has decent bike infrastructure. People pass closely but do seem reasonably aware of cyclists. I feel safe enough to not wear a helmet here.

Worst part of commute is a really wide shoulder for 2.5 miles with cars going 60mph next to me. I wouldn't have attempted the commute prior to a cellphone ban while driving.