Round Rock, situated in Williamson County, Texas, stands as a dynamic testament to the intersection of history and modernity. As part of the Greater Austin metropolitan area, the city's population reached 119,468 as of the 2020 census, showcasing its growth into a thriving community.

Straddling the Balcones Escarpment, Round Rock boasts diverse landscapes, with the eastern side characterized by the fertile Blackland Prairie and the western side featuring hilly, karst-like terrain—a reflection of its connection to the Texas Hill Country. Located just 20 miles north of downtown Austin, Round Rock shares a border with the capital city at Texas State Highway 45.

In 2008, Money Magazine recognized Round Rock as the seventh-best American small city to live in, highlighting its appeal. A year later, CNN listed Round Rock as the second-fastest-growing city in the nation, with an impressive 8.2% population growth.

Education plays a pivotal role in Round Rock's identity, with the Round Rock Independent School District earning accolades for excellence. The district's 42 schools, including 12 exemplary and 11 recognized, underscore a commitment to providing quality education.

Round Rock gained prominence as the international headquarters of Dell, employing approximately 16,000 individuals. This corporate giant, alongside other major employers, economic development initiatives, and notable retail establishments like IKEA and a Premium Outlet Mall, has transformed Round Rock from a quiet bedroom community into a self-contained "super suburb."

Delving into its historical roots, Round Rock's prehistoric era dates back to 9,200 BCE, with evidence of human habitation linked to the Clovis culture. The city's rich Native American history, the Chisholm Trail crossing, and the Sam Bass Shootout in 1878 contribute to its unique narrative.

In the 20th century, Round Rock thrived on cotton fields, and the Chisholm Trail Crossing Park stands as a testament to this heritage. The Old Settlers Association, established in 1904, continues to celebrate Round Rock's history through annual reunions.

Interstate 35 played a pivotal role in shaping Round Rock's destiny in the mid-20th century. While debates ensued about its route, Round Rock emerged as a commercial center, overshadowing nearby Taylor. The city's economic transformation is chronicled in Linda Scarborough's book, "Road, River and Ol' Boy Politics: A Texas County's Path from Farm to Supersuburb."

By the 1990s, Round Rock transitioned into a bedroom community, with residents working in Austin and returning home. The late 1990s marked a turning point with Dell Corporation's headquarters relocation, sparking economic development and making Round Rock a major employment hub.

Geographically, Round Rock is strategically positioned, 17 miles north of downtown Austin and 10 miles south of Georgetown, showcasing a blend of urban and natural landscapes.

Round Rock's story is one of evolution—from a humble community by Brushy Creek to a dynamic city that harmonizes heritage with progress. As the city continues to grow, it stands as a beacon of Texan resilience and adaptability, inviting all to explore its multifaceted tapestry.

 

Round Rock is a city in the U.S. state of Texas, in Williamson County (with a small part in Travis County),^[4] which is a part of the Greater Austin metropolitan area. Its population is 119,468 as of the 2020 census.^[5]

The city straddles the Balcones Escarpment,^[6] a fault line in which the areas roughly east of Interstate 35 are flat and characterized by having black, fertile soils of the Blackland Prairie, and the west side of the Escarpment, which consists mostly of hilly, karst-like terrain with little topsoil and higher elevations and which is part of the Texas Hill Country. Located about 20 miles (32 km) north of downtown Austin, Round Rock shares a common border with Austin at Texas State Highway 45.

In August 2008, Money named Round Rock as the seventh-best American small city in which to live.^[7] Round Rock was the only Texas city to make the Top 10. In a CNN article dated July 1, 2009, Round Rock was listed as the second-fastest-growing city in the country, with a population growth of 8.2% in the preceding year.