Arsenal's Bukayo Saka scored the only goal of the game in the 56th minute after England had created the better chances in the first half.
Aston Villa’s Jack Grealish and Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham also impressed for The Three Lions, staking a claim ahead of this summer’s tournament.
Ex-Sunderland goalkeeper Jordan Pickford also kept a clean sheet.
Yet the match ended in disappointment for Liverpool full-back Trent Alexander-Arnold who limped off with a thigh issue in the closing stages.
With several players unavailable due to their involvement in European competitions with Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea, the match against Austria provided an opportunity to impress.
England will return to the Riverside on Sunday, June 6 for another friendly match against Romania.
Here’s how Southgate’s men fared against Austria.
5. Kieran Trippier - 6
A solid evening at left-back. Took most of the set-pieces with differing success. 6 Photo: CARL RECINE
6. Declan Rice - 6
A few loose passes but saw out his responsibilities in front of the back four. 6 Photo: Michael Regan
7. Jude Bellingham - 7
An impressive display from the teenager. Broke up play and looked comfortable on the ball. An exciting prospect. 7 Photo: MICHAEL REGAN
8. Jesse Lingard - 6
Spent most of the match on the fringes but did play a part in the opener. 6 Photo: FRANK AUGSTEIN