Austin, Texas to Houston: Road Trip Guide & Distance

146.3 miles 235.4 km · straight line
162.4 miles actual route 261.4 km · driving distance
3h 0min estimated drive time
$16 - $19 estimated fuel cost
~48min flight time
103° ESE bearing direction

How far is Austin, Texas from Houston?

The distance from Austin, Texas to Houston is 146.3 miles (235.4 km) as the crow flies. Houston is located ESE of Austin, Texas. By car, the driving distance is approximately 162.4 miles, taking about 3h 0min. A direct flight would take roughly 48min. Both are located in United States.

For a drive of this length, it's recommended to plan at least one quick rest stop to stretch your legs and grab a coffee. Heading East means you'll be driving into the sunrise if you start early. Keep your windshield clean for the best visibility. Given the short distance, driving or taking a train is often faster and more convenient than dealing with airport security and flight boarding times.

Coordinates come from public place data for Austin, Texas and Houston. The driving distance uses an OSRM road-route result when route data is available. Fuel, flight, bus, and train values are planning estimates and can change by date, provider, road closures, and border rules.

How to Get from Austin, Texas to Houston

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 3h 0min $16 - $19 Flexible stops
Fly ~48min $80–200* Speed
Bus ~3h 36min $13–$24* Budget
Train ~2h 51min $19–$57* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between Austin, Texas & Houston

Quick Facts

Austin, Texas
30.27°N, 97.74°W
America/Chicago
149m elevation
Houston
29.76°N, 95.37°W
America/Chicago
15m elevation
Explore more routes from Houston

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 49 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 12 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 170.2 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · OSRM