Texas Porch

Economic History

How Austin Became a Tech Hub

IBM's arrival in 1967 launched a tech economy in Austin that grew into one of the largest in the country.

Travis County History & Culture

IBM came to Austin in 1967. Texas Instruments followed in 1969 and Motorola in 1974. By the early 1990s, about 400 high-tech companies operated in the metro area. State government jobs and University of Texas research helped anchor the economy alongside the tech firms.

This mix of government, higher education, and industry gave Austin a strong base. Dell Computer was founded in Austin in 1984 and added to the region's name recognition. Travis County's population grew from about 111,000 in 1940 to more than 1.1 million by the early 2010s. Growth has kept going since then.

Source to confirm: TSHA Handbook – Austin, TX (Travis County)

More Travis County notes

Property Tax Basics

Travis Central Appraisal District: What It Does

TCAD sets the value of your property, but a separate office collects your taxes.

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Homestead Exemption

How to Get Your Homestead Exemption in Travis County

A homestead exemption lowers the taxable value of your home and can save hundreds per year.

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Senior & Disability Exemptions

Extra Property Tax Help for Seniors and Disabled Homeowners

Homeowners 65 or older, or with a qualifying disability, can freeze their school district taxes.

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Veteran Exemptions

Property Tax Exemptions for Veterans in Travis County

Veterans with a VA disability rating may qualify for partial or full property tax relief.

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