View the map of Central Texas shown below, Central Texas is a diverse region that includes major cities like Austin, the state capital, and San Antonio. Known for its rolling hills, rivers, and the Hill Country, Central Texas has a population of over 5 million people. The area is an economic hub for technology, education, and military industries, with major employers like the University of Texas, Dell, and Fort Hood. It also boasts cultural landmarks such as the Alamo and the Texas State Capitol. The region experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters.
Explore the map of Central Texas showing international boundary, county boundary, interstate highways, US highways, railroads, state capital, major cities, major towns, state parks, and airports.
Central Texas
Central Texas is a geographically and culturally diverse region located in the heart of the state, serving as a hub for commerce, technology, education, and military activity. It includes major cities such as Austin, the state capital, and San Antonio, along with numerous smaller cities and rural areas. With its rolling hills, scenic rivers, and a mix of urban and rural landscapes, Central Texas plays a vital role in the state’s economy and culture. The region is known for its fast-growing population, thriving industries, and rich historical heritage, making it one of the most important areas in Texas.
Geography and Climate
Central Texas is characterized by diverse geography, including the famous Texas Hill Country. The Hill Country is known for its rugged limestone hills, clear-flowing rivers such as the Colorado River, and picturesque landscapes. This region stretches from Austin westward toward San Angelo and features rolling hills, canyons, and valleys, providing a scenic backdrop for residents and tourists alike.
The area experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Average high temperatures during the summer often exceed 90°F (32°C), while winter temperatures are mild, typically ranging from 40°F (4°C) to 60°F (15°C). Rainfall averages between 30 to 35 inches annually, with spring and early fall being the wettest seasons. Occasional droughts can affect the region, but Central Texas also experiences severe thunderstorms and flash floods due to its terrain and climate patterns.
Major Cities and Population
Austin
As the capital of Texas, Austin is the largest city in Central Texas, with a population of over 960,000 residents as of the 2020 Census. Known for its vibrant live music scene, tech industry, and unique culture, Austin is often referred to as the "Live Music Capital of the World." The city is a major tech hub, home to companies like Dell Technologies, Oracle, Apple, and Tesla, which have contributed to the city's rapid growth. Austin is also home to the University of Texas at Austin, a major public research institution that drives innovation and attracts students from around the world.
San Antonio
San Antonio, the second-largest city in Texas, with a population of over 1.5 million, lies at the southern edge of Central Texas. Known for its rich history, including the famous Alamo and the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, the city is a blend of historical significance and modern urban growth. San Antonio is also home to Joint Base San Antonio, a key military installation that significantly impacts the local economy. The city's downtown River Walk is a major tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year. The healthcare, tourism, and military sectors are dominant economic drivers in San Antonio.
Other Cities
Beyond Austin and San Antonio, Central Texas includes several smaller but important cities such as Round Rock, Georgetown, Killeen, Waco, and Temple. Round Rock, a suburb of Austin, has become a major technology hub, largely due to the presence of Dell Technologies. Killeen is home to Fort Hood, one of the largest military bases in the United States, contributing heavily to the region’s economy. Waco, home to Baylor University, is a center for education, healthcare, and manufacturing.
Economy and Industry
Central Texas has a robust and diversified economy, supported by a range of industries. The technology sector is one of the fastest-growing in the region, particularly in Austin, where major tech companies have established their regional headquarters. Austin's reputation as a tech hub has earned it the nickname "Silicon Hills." Companies like Apple, Google, Amazon, and Facebook have expanded operations in the city, contributing to significant job growth and real estate development.
In San Antonio, the economy is driven by military, healthcare, tourism, and finance. The military presence at Fort Sam Houston and Lackland Air Force Base contributes billions of dollars annually to the regional economy. San Antonio also has a growing biosciences and healthcare sector, supported by institutions like the University of Texas Health Science Center.
The agriculture sector remains important in the rural parts of Central Texas, with cattle ranching, cotton, hay, and pecans being significant agricultural products. Wineries and olive groves are increasingly prominent in the Hill Country, with the area becoming known for producing Texas wine.
Tourism is another key industry, particularly in Austin and San Antonio. The Texas State Capitol, SXSW (South by Southwest) festival, and Austin City Limits music festival draw large crowds to Austin annually. In San Antonio, the Alamo and the River Walk are significant tourist attractions.
Education and Research
Central Texas is home to some of the state’s most important educational institutions. The University of Texas at Austin is one of the largest and most prestigious public universities in the United States, with over 50,000 students enrolled. The university is a major research institution, contributing to advancements in technology, science, and the arts.
Baylor University in Waco is another prominent institution, known for its law, business, and medical programs. Texas State University in San Marcos, located between Austin and San Antonio, is one of the fastest-growing universities in the state.
In addition to higher education, Central Texas is home to several prominent research institutions, including the Dell Medical School at UT Austin and the Texas Biomedical Research Institute in San Antonio, which focuses on biosciences and infectious diseases.
Military Presence
Central Texas has a significant military presence, which plays a major role in the regional economy. Fort Hood, located in Killeen, is one of the largest U.S. Army installations in the world, covering approximately 340 square miles. The base supports more than 40,000 soldiers and employs thousands of civilians. Joint Base San Antonio includes Lackland Air Force Base, Fort Sam Houston, and Randolph Air Force Base, supporting a wide range of training and operational missions for the U.S. military.
Transportation and Infrastructure
Central Texas benefits from a well-developed transportation network. Interstate 35 (I-35) is the main north-south highway running through Austin and San Antonio, providing critical connectivity between the two cities and the broader region. The area is also served by U.S. Highway 290, U.S. Highway 183, and State Highway 130, which offers an alternative toll route to bypass traffic congestion around Austin.
In terms of air travel, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) and San Antonio International Airport (SAT) are the primary airports serving Central Texas, connecting the region to national and international destinations. Additionally, Amtrak provides passenger rail service, and the area has a growing public transportation system, including bus and commuter rail services in Austin and San Antonio.
Environmental and Recreational Attractions
Central Texas is known for its natural beauty, particularly in the Hill Country. The Colorado River, Lake Travis, and Lake Austin offer opportunities for boating, fishing, and water sports. The region is also famous for its state parks, such as Pedernales Falls State Park and Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, which attract hikers, campers, and nature enthusiasts.
The area’s many rivers, such as the San Marcos River and the Guadalupe River, are popular destinations for tubing, kayaking, and rafting. Hamilton Pool Preserve, a natural swimming hole located near Austin, is another popular attraction known for its stunning limestone grotto and waterfall.
List of Counties of Central Texas
County
Population (2020 Census)
Area (Square Miles)
County Seat
Notable Features
Travis County
1,290,188
1,023
Austin
Texas State Capitol, University of Texas at Austin
Williamson County
609,017
1,134
Georgetown
Historic Georgetown, Round Rock
Bexar County
2,009,324
1,256
San Antonio
The Alamo, San Antonio River Walk
Hays County
241,067
678
San Marcos
Texas State University, San Marcos River
Bastrop County
97,216
896
Bastrop
Bastrop State Park, Piney Woods
Caldwell County
45,883
547
Lockhart
Lockhart State Park, Barbecue Capital of Texas
Burnet County
49,130
995
Burnet
Highland Lakes, Longhorn Cavern State Park
Blanco County
11,374
713
Johnson City
Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park
Lampasas County
21,627
714
Lampasas
Historic Lampasas, Hancock Springs Park
Llano County
21,243
935
Llano
Llano River, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
Bell County
370,647
1,088
Belton
Fort Hood, Belton Lake
McLennan County
256,623
1,042
Waco
Baylor University, Magnolia Market
Comal County
161,501
575
New Braunfels
Guadalupe River, Schlitterbahn Waterpark
Guadalupe County
172,706
715
Seguin
Guadalupe River, Texas Lutheran University
Coryell County
83,093
1,057
Gatesville
Fort Hood, Coryell Museum
Gillespie County
27,320
1,062
Fredericksburg
Wine Country, National Museum of the Pacific War
Milam County
24,754
1,021
Cameron
Texas Czech Heritage Center
Falls County
16,968
774
Marlin
Brazos River, Historic Downtown
Fayette County
24,435
950
La Grange
Texas Quilt Museum, Colorado River
San Saba County
5,730
1,138
San Saba
San Saba River, Pecan Industry
Lee County
17,239
629
Giddings
Nails Creek State Park, Ranching
Robertson County
16,757
856
Franklin
Brazos River, Camp Hearne
List of Cities of Central Texas
City
Population (2020 Census)
Area (Square Miles)
County
Notable Features
Austin
961,855
326.51
Travis, Williamson, Hays
Texas State Capitol, University of Texas, Tech Hub
