Current Time in Austin, United States

Austin is the capital of Texas and one of the fastest-growing major cities in the United States, located in the Hill Country of central Texas along the Colorado River. With a population exceeding 1 million in the city and approximately 2.5 million in the greater metropolitan area, Austin has transformed over the past three decades from a mid-sized university and government town into one of America's most dynamic economic, cultural, and technological centers. Known for its live music scene, outdoor lifestyle, food culture, and progressive urban character, Austin carries the unofficial motto Keep Austin Weird as a badge of civic pride.

Austin was founded in 1838 and selected as the capital of the then-independent Republic of Texas in 1839, chosen by President Mirabeau Lamar for its central location and scenic setting. Named after Stephen F. Austin, the founding father of Anglo-American Texas, the city served as the seat of government through Texas statehood in 1845 and has remained the state capital ever since. The Texas State Capitol, completed in 1888 from sunset red granite, dominates the skyline of downtown Austin and is one of the most impressive state capitol buildings in the country.

Austin's international reputation as a music capital was forged through the legendary live music scene centered on the 6th Street Entertainment District and the clubs and venues scattered throughout the city. Austin claims more live music venues per capita than any other city in the United States and hosts the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival each March, one of the world's most important gatherings for music, film, and interactive technology. The Austin City Limits Music Festival each October fills Zilker Park with some of the world's biggest musical acts. Austin City Limits, a long-running PBS television program originating from the city, is the longest-running music series in American TV history.

Austin's technology sector has exploded in the 21st century, earning the city the nickname Silicon Hills. Major technology companies including Dell (founded here), Apple, Google, Amazon, Tesla (which relocated its global headquarters to Austin from California), Samsung, and Meta have significant operations in the city, drawn by Texas's business-friendly environment, no state income tax, the University of Texas at Austin, and relatively affordable costs compared to coastal technology hubs.

The University of Texas at Austin is one of the largest and most prestigious public research universities in the United States, with over 50,000 students and world-leading programs in engineering, law, business, and the sciences. The campus's Longhorn athletic programs, particularly football, inspire passionate community devotion. Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed swimming hole in Zilker Park, and the extensive trail system along the Colorado River (Town Lake) are beloved outdoor amenities that define Austin's relationship with nature.

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport provides extensive domestic and growing international connections. With its extraordinary music heritage, booming technology economy, world-class university, outdoor culture, and distinctive Austin personality, the city has established itself as one of the most exciting and talked-about cities in America.