Explore the elevation of Amarillo, Texas—perched at over 3,600 feet above sea level in the heart of the Texas Panhandle. This high-plains city blends Western heritage, industrial strength, and wide-open landscapes, offering a unique high-elevation lifestyle unlike most other Texan cities.

Table of Contents

Where is Amarillo?

  • Location: Amarillo is located in Potter County in the northern section of Texas, and is the largest city in the Texas Panhandle.

City Profile

  • Nicknames: Formerly known as the Helium Capital of the World.
  • Fame: Known for cattle-shipping history, helium production, and the Pantex nuclear weapons facility.
  • Population: Around 200,000 residents in the city, with approximately 280,000 in the metro area.
  • Size: Covers an area of 90.3 square miles.
  • Historic roots: Founded as Oneida, later renamed Amarillo after the yellow soil and flowers in the area.

Elevation Basics

  • City elevation: Amarillo sits at an elevation of 3,605 feet (1,099 m) above sea level.
  • Geographic setting: Located in the Staked Plains region, part of the high plains of the western U.S.
  • Historic growth: Railroad access and cattle farming spurred early development; helium and nuclear industries followed.
  • Major facilities: Home to Pantex, the U.S.’s only nuclear weapons assembly plant.
  • Tourist appeal: Known for Cadillac Ranch, Palo Duro Canyon, and the Big Texan Steak Ranch.

Must-Know Elevation Facts

  • Definition: Elevation indicates a city's height above sea level—critical for geography, architecture, and climate planning.
  • City elevation: 3,605 feet (1,099 m), making it one of Texas’ highest large cities.
  • Comparison to Texas average: Texas averages 1,700 feet (520 m), so Amarillo is significantly higher.
  • Comparison to U.S. coastal cities:
    • New York City: 33 ft (10 m)
    • Los Angeles: 285 ft (87 m)
  • Highest Texas city: Fort Davis – 4,900 feet (1,494 m).
  • Highest point in Texas: Guadalupe Peak – 8,751 feet (2,667 m).
  • Lowest point in Texas: The Gulf of Mexico – 0 feet (sea level).
  • Texas city comparison:
    • Amarillo: 3,605 ft (1,099 m)
    • Dallas: 430 ft (131 m)
    • Houston: 80 ft (32 m)
    • Austin: 489 ft (149 m)
    • San Antonio: 650 ft (198 m)

Climate and Tourism

  • Climate type: Amarillo experiences a cold semi-arid climate with significant daily temperature swings.
  • Winter lows: January is the coldest month, averaging 37°F (3°C).
  • Summer highs: July is the warmest month, averaging 78°F (26°C).
  • Freezing conditions: Temperatures can fall below freezing from late November through April; snow is common.
  • Panhandle uniqueness: Amarillo’s weather differs sharply from humid eastern Texas cities.
  • Local flavor: Tourists enjoy Tex-Mex cuisine, Western culture, and live music.
  • Top attractions:
    • Cadillac Ranch – Iconic public art installation along Route 66.
    • Big Texan Steak Ranch – Famous for its 72-oz steak challenge.
    • Wonderland Amusement Park – Popular with families.
    • Palo Duro Canyon State Park – The second-largest canyon in the U.S., ideal for hiking and photography.

Plan Your Trip