Round Rock, Texas, has established itself as one of the fastest-growing economic hubs in Central Texas, while still maintaining a high quality of life for its residents. Situated just 15 miles north of Austin, the city benefits from its proximity to the state capital but has also carved out its own identity as a center for innovation, retail, and advanced industries.
Round Rock’s economy is powered by several key industry clusters, including advanced manufacturing, clean energy, life sciences, and computer/software development. This diverse base has helped the city attract both corporate headquarters and mid-sized businesses that fuel steady job growth.
Together, these companies provide thousands of jobs, supporting both the local economy and the wider Austin–Round Rock metropolitan region.
Perhaps the most influential economic force in Round Rock is Dell Technologies, a Fortune 500 company founded in nearby Austin by Michael Dell in 1984. The company relocated its corporate headquarters to Round Rock in 1996, after the city extended a landmark “Chapter 380” sales tax sharing agreement. This partnership became a model for economic development across Texas.
Today, Dell employs around 11,500 people in Round Rock and more than 138,000 worldwide, solidifying its role as one of the largest technology companies in the world. Beyond job creation, Dell also contributes significantly to Round Rock’s finances, historically generating nearly half of the city’s general fund revenues through sales tax. The company also leads in sustainability, with its Round Rock headquarters powered by a mix of wind energy and landfill gas-to-energy programs.
Round Rock is also a retail and commercial hotspot in Central Texas. The city’s largest business center, La Frontera, spans over one million square feet of retail space alongside multi-tenant offices, apartment complexes, and Williamson County’s largest hotel, the Austin North Marriott. This mixed-use development has become a cornerstone of Round Rock’s economic expansion, hosting major employers and providing space for conferences, meetings, and events.
Another landmark project is the Round Rock Premium Outlets, located at the intersection of I-35 and University Boulevard. Opened in 2006, the outdoor shopping complex attracts visitors from across the region with a wide range of brand-name stores and dining options, complementing Round Rock’s growing tourism and retail sectors.
Round Rock’s strong economy is supported by a highly skilled workforce and excellent educational resources. The presence of Texas State University – Round Rock Campus and nearby colleges provides talent pipelines for healthcare, technology, and business fields. The Round Rock Independent School District is also known for preparing students for both higher education and technical careers, strengthening the city’s long-term economic outlook.
Strategically located along Interstate 35, with easy access to SH-45 and SH-130 toll roads, Round Rock offers businesses prime connectivity to Austin, San Antonio, and Dallas. Its proximity to Austin–Bergstrom International Airport further enhances its attractiveness to corporations and logistics companies. This infrastructure has been a key factor in attracting both global companies and local entrepreneurs.
Round Rock balances large-scale corporate presence with its own local businesses and cultural icons. Among its most famous is Round Rock Donuts, founded in 1926 and still thriving today. The shop is both a local favorite and a regional draw, highlighting how Round Rock’s economy blends tradition with modern growth.
In addition, the city invests in small business support and entrepreneurial programs, encouraging innovation at the community level and ensuring that economic success benefits residents across all sectors.
Round Rock’s economy is a unique mix of technology, manufacturing, retail, and culture. Anchored by global corporations like Dell, supported by regional retail centers, and enriched by local businesses, the city has developed into a powerhouse in Central Texas. With continued investment in infrastructure, education, and a strong workforce, Round Rock is positioned to remain a vital hub for both business and community life in the years ahead.