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.
13. James Ward-Prowse - 6
Had to be disciplined as England held onto their advantage in the closing stages. 6 Photo: Pool
14. Ollie Watkins - 5
(for Kane, 60) A quiet cameo after he was introduced on the left in the second half. 5 Photo: CARL RECINE
15. Ben Godfrey - 5
(for Mings, 60) Came on for his England debut. Fortunate not to score an own goal with a blind back pass. 5 Photo: Stu Forster
16. Ben White - 7
(for Grealish, 71) Made his debut and had to be alert to clear a late shot off the line. 7 Photo: Getty Images