Austin is the capital of Texas — a designation it has held since 1839 that has shaped everything about the city’s identity, economy, and role in Texas life. Consequently, Austin is not just the state’s political center but also its cultural and increasingly technological heart. This guide covers why Austin is Texas’s capital, the Texas State Capitol building, state government functions, and what makes Austin unique as a capital city.
Why Austin Is the Capital of Texas
Austin became the capital of the Republic of Texas in 1839 when President Mirabeau Lamar moved the seat of government from Houston, which had served as a temporary capital since 1837. Furthermore, Lamar chose the site at Waterloo — a small settlement on the Colorado River — for its central location, natural beauty, and defensibility. The site was renamed Austin in honor of Stephen F. Austin, the Father of Texas who had led early American colonization of the state. As a result of Lamar’s decision, Austin has been the seat of Texas government for nearly 190 years despite several attempts to move the capital during the Republic era.
The Texas State Capitol
The Texas State Capitol building at 1100 Congress Avenue in Austin was completed in 1888 after six years of construction using Texas sunset red granite quarried near Marble Falls. Furthermore, the Capitol was designed to be intentionally taller than the US Capitol — standing 308 feet compared to Washington’s 289 feet — as an expression of Texas pride and the state’s self-image as an equal to the federal government. As a result of this height and its prominent position on Capitol Hill at the north end of Congress Avenue, the Texas Capitol is visible across much of downtown Austin and remains the city’s most recognizable landmark.
Texas Government in Austin
Austin houses every branch of Texas state government. The Texas Legislature meets in the Capitol building in biennial regular sessions beginning in January of odd-numbered years for 140 days. The Governor’s Mansion sits adjacent to the Capitol on Lavaca Street. Furthermore, all major state agencies maintain headquarters in Austin — from the Texas Department of Transportation and Texas Education Agency to Texas Health and Human Services and the Texas Department of Public Safety. As a result, Austin’s permanent government workforce of tens of thousands of employees makes state government one of the city’s largest employers alongside the University of Texas and the growing technology sector.
Austin Beyond the Capital
While Austin’s capital designation defines its political role, the city has evolved far beyond a government center. Furthermore, Austin is home to the University of Texas — one of the largest universities in the country — the South by Southwest festival, a thriving live music scene that earned it the Live Music Capital of the World title, and a technology sector that has attracted major company relocations and headquarters. As a result, Austin is simultaneously Texas’s political capital, cultural capital, and increasingly its technology capital — a combination that has driven explosive population growth making Austin one of the fastest-growing major cities in the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capital of Texas?
Austin is the capital of Texas. Austin has served as the Texas state capital since 1839 when it was designated the capital of the Republic of Texas by President Mirabeau Lamar.
Why is Austin the capital of Texas instead of Houston?
Austin replaced Houston as capital of the Republic of Texas in 1839 when President Mirabeau Lamar chose a more central location at the confluence of Shoal Creek and the Colorado River. Houston served as the temporary capital of the Republic from 1837 to 1839.
Where is the Texas State Capitol building?
The Texas State Capitol building is located at 1100 Congress Avenue in downtown Austin, Texas. The building was completed in 1888 from Texas sunset red granite and stands 308 feet tall — taller than the US Capitol in Washington DC.
What state government offices are in Austin Texas?
Austin houses all major Texas state government offices including the Governor’s office, Lieutenant Governor’s office, Texas Legislature (Senate and House), all state agency headquarters, and the Texas Supreme Court.
Is Austin the largest city in Texas?
No. Austin is the fourth-largest city in Texas with approximately 1 million residents. Houston is the largest, followed by San Antonio and Dallas. Austin is the smallest of the four major Texas metros despite being the state capital.
Learn more about Austin Texas with our Things to Do in Austin Texas guide. You can also read our Capital of State of Texas guide for the full government overview. Additionally, explore our Texas Map guide to understand Austin’s central geographic position in the state.
