Asian-American business boom in Austin mirrors fast-growing community

​​AUSTIN – Central Texas counted more than 10,000 Asian-American-owned businesses in 2012, according to the most recent Census Bureau data​—a 142 percent increase since 2002.

The comfortable cost of living, the city’s amenities, the draw of the University of Texas and a strong technology and startup culture have attracted Asian-Americans to live and do business in the area.

But Asian-American business owners say the growth has come despite hurdles that many others don’t face.

Asian-American businesses on average boast annual revenue 19 percent less than Austin businesses overall, according to Census Bureau data.