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.
9. Bukayo Saka - 8
Full of energy caused Austria players to commit fouls. Was rewarded with a goal. 8 Photo: MICHAEL REGAN
10. Jack Grealish - 7
A few flashes in the first half and was constantly fouled as he tried to force a breakthrough. 7 Photo: Pool
11. Harry Kane - 6
Made a surging run to cut Austria open for Saka’s goal. Squandered a decent chance in the first half. 6 Photo: OZAN KOSE
12. Dominic Calvert-Lewin - 6
(for Lingard, 60) Out himself about when he came on and almost created a second with a low cross. 6 Photo: MICHAEL REGAN