Round Rock, Texas - Geography

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Round Rock, Texas is a thriving city located just 17 miles (27 km) north of downtown Austin and about 10 miles (16 km) south of Georgetown, placing it in the heart of Central Texas. With an elevation of 709 ft (216 m), the city offers a unique blend of urban living, rolling landscapes, and natural beauty.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Round Rock covers a total area of 35.9 square miles (93 km²). Of this, 35.6 square miles (92 km²) is land, and about 0.3 square miles (0.78 km²) is water. The city’s size expanded before the 2010 Census when it annexed part of the Brushy Creek area, allowing more room for growth.

Round Rock is also home to notable natural landmarks such as the Cambria Cavern, a fascinating site that highlights the region’s geological history and underground formations.

climate

The climate in this area is characterized by generally hot, humid summers and mild, cool winters. According to the Köppen climate classification, Round Rock has a humid subtropical climate, Cfa on climate maps.

Climate Data for Round Rock, Texas
Month JanFebMarAprMayJun JulAugSepOctNovDecYear
Record high °F (°C) 88 (31)100 (38)96 (36)96 (36)102 (39)109 (43) 105 (41)107 (42)109 (43)99 (37)92 (33)88 (31)109 (43)
Mean daily max °F (°C) 60 (16)65 (18)73 (23)79 (26)85 (29)91 (33) 95 (35)96 (36)90 (32)82 (28)70 (21)62 (17)79 (26)
Mean daily min °F (°C) 35 (2)39 (4)46 (8)54 (12)62 (17)69 (21) 71 (22)70 (21)64 (18)55 (13)45 (7)37 (3)54 (12)
Record low °F (°C) 8 (−13)9 (−13)18 (−8)22 (−6)34 (1)50 (10) 55 (13)50 (10)36 (2)19 (−7)10 (−12)−3 (−19)−3 (−19)
Avg. precipitation in (mm) 2.39 (61)2.45 (62)2.18 (55)3.31 (84)5.00 (127)3.66 (93) 1.68 (43)2.30 (58)3.27 (83)4.38 (111)3.34 (85)2.58 (66)36.54 (928)
Avg. snowfall in (cm) 0.1 (0.25)0 (0)0 (0)0 (0)0 (0)0 (0) 0 (0)0 (0)0 (0)0 (0)0 (0)0 (0)0.1 (0.25)

The city was heavily damaged by a high-end EF2 tornado on March 21, 2022. The tornado continued well northeast of the city afterwards, causing additional damage before dissipating. Sixteen people were injured.

Climate in Round Rock

Round Rock experiences a humid subtropical climate (Cfa), typical of Central Texas. This climate brings hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters, making it a comfortable place to live most of the year.

Summers: High temperatures often climb into the upper 90s °F (mid–high 30s °C) with plenty of sunshine.

Winters: Generally mild and cool, rarely dipping into extreme cold.

Rainfall: The city averages about 36.5 inches (928 mm) annually, which helps maintain its green parks and natural beauty.

Snowfall: Extremely rare, averaging less than an inch per year.

This balance of warm weather and mild winters makes Round Rock perfect for outdoor activities, community events, and year-round recreation.

Extreme Weather Events

While the climate is generally pleasant, Round Rock is not completely free from severe weather. On March 21, 2022, a powerful EF2 tornado struck the city, leaving behind significant damage to homes and businesses. The tornado traveled northeast after leaving Round Rock, causing further destruction before dissipating. A total of sixteen people were injured, underscoring the city’s resilience and preparedness in the face of natural disasters.

Why Geography Matters

Round Rock’s geography plays a key role in its growth and lifestyle:

  • Its prime location near Austin makes it ideal for commuters, families, and businesses.
  • The blend of urban development and natural features creates a balance of convenience and outdoor living.
  • The comfortable climate encourages active lifestyles and community engagement.
  • Awareness of occasional extreme weather helps residents stay prepared and resilient.

Round Rock’s unique mix of location, natural beauty, and climate has helped it grow into one of the most desirable places to live in Central Texas.

What is Round Rock, Texas known for?
Round Rock is known for being the headquarters of Dell Technologies, its thriving economy, sports facilities, and the famous Round Rock Donuts.
Where is Round Rock located?
Round Rock is in Central Texas, about 15 miles north of downtown Austin.
How far is Round Rock from Austin?
Round Rock is approximately a 20–25 minute drive from Austin, depending on traffic.
What are the main zip codes in Round Rock?
Key Round Rock zip codes include 78664, 78665, 78680, 78681, 78682, and 78683.
What is the population of Round Rock?
As of 2022 estimates, Round Rock has a population of about 126,000 residents.
What type of climate does Round Rock have?
Round Rock has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters.
What is the best time to visit Round Rock?
Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) are the most comfortable times to visit.
Why is Round Rock called “Round Rock”?
The city was named after a large, round rock in Brushy Creek that served as a landmark for early settlers.
When was Round Rock founded?
Round Rock was established in 1851 and was originally called Brushy Creek.
What industries drive Round Rock’s economy?
Key industries include technology, manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and education.
Is Dell headquartered in Round Rock?
Yes, Dell Technologies has its global headquarters in Round Rock, employing thousands locally.
What are the largest shopping centers in Round Rock?
Popular centers include Round Rock Premium Outlets and La Frontera shopping district.
Why is Round Rock called the “Sports Capital of Texas”?
Round Rock has world-class sports facilities, including baseball, soccer, cricket, disc golf, and more.
What sports facilities are available in Round Rock?
Old Settlers Park, Dell Diamond, and Round Rock Multipurpose Complex are key venues.
Who are the Round Rock Express?
The Round Rock Express is a Triple-A minor league baseball team affiliated with the Texas Rangers.
What movies were filmed in Round Rock?
Movies like The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974) and The Rookie (2002) were filmed here.
What is the Texas Chainsaw Massacre connection to Round Rock?
Many scenes from the 1974 horror classic were filmed in Round Rock, making it a film landmark.
What schools and universities are in Round Rock?
Round Rock is served by Round Rock ISD and is home to Texas State University Round Rock Campus and Austin Community College.
What is the cost of living in Round Rock?
Round Rock’s cost of living is slightly below the national average, with affordable housing compared to Austin.
What is the median home price in Round Rock?
The median home value is around $350,000, depending on the neighborhood.
What is the average household size in Round Rock?
The average household size is about 2.87 people.
What is the median age of Round Rock residents?
The median age in Round Rock is 32 years old, making it a young and family-friendly city.
What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Round Rock?
Round Rock is diverse, with significant White, Hispanic, African American, and Asian populations.
What are Round Rock’s sister cities?
Round Rock’s sister cities are Lake Macquarie, Australia, and Sabinas Hidalgo, Mexico.
Does Round Rock have public transportation?
Capital Metro provides limited bus service, but most residents rely on cars.
What hospitals and healthcare facilities are in Round Rock?
Major providers include Baylor Scott & White Medical Center and Ascension Seton Williamson.
What parks and recreation options are available in Round Rock?
Old Settlers Park, Brushy Creek Regional Trail, and the Rock’N River Waterpark are popular spots.
What notable people are from Round Rock?
Notables include sports figures, musicians, and entrepreneurs connected to Central Texas.
What major highways connect Round Rock to nearby cities?
I-35, SH-45, and SH-130 connect Round Rock to Austin, Georgetown, and beyond.
Is Round Rock a good place to live for families?
Yes, Round Rock is known for excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and family-friendly amenities.