In a major economic win for Central Texas, Austin city leaders have approved a $5.5 million incentive agreement to support a major expansion by Southwest Airlines — an expansion expected to bring up to 2,000 high-paying jobs to the region over the next five years.
Southwest is already the No. 1 carrier at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, but this deal signals something much bigger: the airline is preparing for long-term growth in the Austin metro as the airport undergoes its massive expansion. And while the announcement is centered in Austin, the ripple effects will be felt throughout Williamson County.
High-Paying Opportunities Coming to Central Texas
Although the airline hasn’t released specific job titles yet, city documents show the new positions are expected to average $180,000 per year — representing some of the highest-paying aviation roles in the region.
These are not entry-level jobs. They are the types of roles that attract:
Aviation professionals
Tech specialists
Engineers
Operations managers
Corporate positions tied to airline growth
With WilCo’s educated workforce and fast-growing population, many local residents could be strong candidates as these jobs roll out.
Why This Matters for Williamson County
Williamson County is already one of the fastest-growing regions in Texas — home to booming job markets in Round Rock, Leander, Georgetown, Hutto, Cedar Park, and Liberty Hill. But the addition of thousands of new aviation jobsjust 30–45 minutes away strengthens the county’s pull as a residential destination for professionals seeking stability and high-wage careers.
Here’s how WilCo benefits:
2,000 direct Southwest jobs mean more high-income workers likely to live in WilCo communities due to quality schools and housing.
5,100 indirect jobs (construction, hospitality, food service, transportation) increase opportunities for WilCo businesses and workers.
Airport growth = long-term demand for regional suppliers, service providers, contractors, and local companies.
Commuter convenience: Many WilCo residents already work in Austin’s tech and government sectors — airline and airport jobs add another major employment lane.
For job seekers in WilCo, especially those in aviation, engineering, operations, logistics, IT, and customer service, this expansion could become one of the biggest hiring waves of the decade.
A Long-Term Play as Austin Expands Its Airport
Southwest has made it clear: as ABIA grows, they plan to grow with it.
A second airport concourse is projected to open in the early 2030s, giving Southwest even more room to scale routes, staffing, and operations.
Right now, the airline handles more than 40% of all AUS passengers, making Austin one of its strongest markets nationwide. This new agreement reinforces how central Austin — and by extension, Central Texas — has become to Southwest’s long-term strategy.
What Leaders Are Saying
Council Member Vanessa Fuentes called the agreement a win for working families, highlighting the union-supported jobs and economic stability they bring.
Southwest praised Austin’s leadership and confirmed the expansion will deepen its presence in the region, with more details to be announced alongside Gov. Greg Abbott and CEO Bob Jordan.
Bottom Line: Big Opportunities Are Coming — Especially for WilCo Residents
This is more than an airline announcement. It’s a signal that Central Texas is entering a new era of aviation, infrastructure, and job growth. And with thousands of high-paying roles opening just down the road, Williamson County residents may find some of the best career opportunities of the next decade right here in their backyard.
