Austin's a good choice. I can attest for the great college town, bars and music. Heck, if you're a programmer, you already know about SXSW.

Plus you can get some good ol' Texas brisket there. Granted I went to the Salt Lick, which is like the Hard Rock of Texas BBQ but it was still pretty good.

I am not one for the heat though. Dry heat or wet heat, it's still hot. I like my temperate climates.