REGIONAL PROFILES: TEXAS’ 10 REGIONS

A blueprint for statewide economic success.

Texas is proving once again that everything is bigger — and better — when it comes to economic growth. From the booming tech hubs of Austin to the bustling trade corridors along the Gulf Coast, the Lone Star State is riding a wave of success that’s catching the attention of investors nationwide. With a vast portfolio of industries, ranging from energy and space exploration to cutting-edge tech and innovative biotech, Texas has quickly become the go-to destination for businesses looking to stake their claim in a rapidly changing world.

CENTRAL TEXAS
Located in the heart of the Lone Star State, Central Texas is a vital connector between some of Texas’ most dynamic communities along the I-35 corridor.

Austin, the beating heart of Central Texas, has evolved from a laid-back college town into a global tech powerhouse, earning the nickname “Silicon Hills.” Companies like Tesla, Apple and Dell have set up major operations here, fueling a booming economy and attracting top-tier talent. But Austin isn’t just about business; the city thrives on creativity. With its vibrant live music scene, an ever-expanding food culture and iconic events like South by Southwest (SXSW), the city remains a magnet for artists, tourists and innovators alike.

Further north, Waco is experiencing a renaissance of its own. Once defined primarily by Baylor University, the city has grown into a tourist hotspot thanks to Magnolia Market, while also making strides in aerospace and defense with industry leaders like L3Harris and SpaceX investing in the area.

Nearby, Killeen stands as a cornerstone of national defense, home to Fort Cavazos — one of the largest military bases in the country — and a key economic driver for the region.

The talent pool in Central Texas is powered by an expansive network of leading universities that fuel innovation and workforce development across the region. At the forefront is The University of Texas at Austin, the region’s flagship institution and one of the top public universities in the country. Renowned for its cutting-edge programs in fields such as computer science, electrical engineering and aerospace engineering, UT Austin is at the forefront of research that drives the Texas technology scene. The university is home to world-class research centers like the Cockrell School of Engineering, which is known for its groundbreaking work in areas like robotics, sustainable energy and semiconductor technology.

Although slightly east of the I-35 corridor, Texas A&M University in College Station plays a central role in shaping the region’s development. With over 72,000 students, Texas A&M excels in fields such as engineering, agriculture and biomedical sciences, and its reputation for producing top-tier talent is unmatched. The university’s Health Science Center and innovative research facilities contribute significantly to advancements in medicine and technology, benefiting not only the state but the nation.

GULF COAST
Stretching across 12,300 square miles along the Gulf of Mexico, the Texas Gulf Coast is a vibrant economic powerhouse where industries flourish and trade flows seamlessly. Anchored by Houston, the largest city in the region, the area is propelled by a dynamic economy driven by energy, logistics and space exploration.

Houston, often hailed as the “Energy Capital of the World,” serves as the epicenter of the region’s energy sector. Major oil and gas giants like ExxonMobil, Chevron and ConocoPhillips call the city home, along with an extensive network of refineries and petrochemical plants. Houston’s leadership in energy production, particularly in natural gas, fuels local growth and drives global trade, solidifying the city’s position as a key player in the international energy market.

The Gulf Coast’s strategic location along key global shipping lanes makes it a vital hub for international trade. The Port of Houston stands as one of the busiest ports in the United States, handling over 260 million tons of cargo in 2023 alone. With robust trade connections spanning Latin America, Europe and Asia, the Port plays an essential role in the global supply chain, contributing more than $439 billion in value and nearly 20% of Texas’ GDP in 2022.

But the Gulf Coast’s influence doesn’t stop at the water’s edge — it reaches far into the cosmos. Houston’s role in space exploration is anchored by NASA’s Johnson Space Center, the heart of U.S. human spaceflight. Since its inception in the 1960s, Johnson Space Center has overseen pivotal missions, including the Apollo moon landings and the Space Shuttle program. Today, it remains at the forefront of space innovation, supporting NASA’s Artemis program, which seeks to return astronauts to the moon and ultimately send them to Mars. The region is also home to private space pioneers like SpaceX, reinforcing the Gulf Coast’s role as a hub for space technology and exploration.

HIGH PLAINS
Welcome to the High Plains, where the endless horizon meets boundless opportunity. Stretching across 42,100 square miles and bordered by New Mexico and Oklahoma, this expansive region is home to some of Texas’ most breathtaking landscapes, including the towering Palo Duro Canyon and the meandering Prairie Dog Town Fork Red River. But while the natural beauty is certainly a draw, it’s the thriving business landscape that’s quickly putting the High Plains on the map.

Nestled in the heart of the Texas Panhandle, the High Plains strikes a perfect balance between small-town charm and big-city potential, offering peace and prosperity in equal measure.

For generations, agriculture has been the heartbeat of the High Plains, with fertile soil and wide-open spaces ideal for crops like cotton and wheat. Cattle ranching continues to be a staple industry, but the region is evolving, adding a new crop to its portfolio — wind energy. Thanks to vast, open landscapes and a steady breeze, wind farms have sprouted across the area, with over 2,000 turbines generating power. This growing sector is not only boosting the local economy but is also playing a key role in the country’s shift toward renewable energy, bringing with it job creation and long-term sustainability.

Wind energy is only the beginning of the region’s involvement in emerging industries. In May 2023, global semiconductor giant X-Fab made waves by investing $200 million to expand its Lubbock facility, boosting production of silicon carbide (SiC) semiconductors. These high-demand components are crucial for industries like automotive, health care and consumer products. The expansion is set to generate 250 new jobs and was further supported in December 2024 when the U.S. Department of Commerce, under the CHIPS and Science Act, announced up to $50 million in funding to bolster SiC production, creating another 150 jobs in the process.

With agriculture, wind energy and cutting-edge semiconductor manufacturing on the rise, the High Plains is fast becoming a powerhouse of innovation and growth, positioning itself as a leader in the nation’s future — a future driven by both local progress and sustainable development.

METROPLEX
From the Oklahoma border to the Brazos River, this vibrant region, spanning across Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington and beyond, boasts a population of over 8 million people, making it one of Texas’ largest and most eclectic hubs. It’s a place where big ideas are born, from tech innovations to world-class health care, with every corner offering an opportunity to grow.

In Dallas, the financial sector has long been in the spotlight, with everything from the Dallas Federal Reserve to major Fortune 500 companies boasting a prominent presence. But lately, it’s the tech scene that’s stealing the show. With global players like Cisco, Texas Instruments and AT&T leading the charge, Dallas and Richardson have earned the title “Silicon Prairie,” where innovation is fueled by a steady stream of startups, incubators and entrepreneurs.

The region’s booming tech sector is supported by a talent pool fresh from local universities like The University of Texas at Dallas (UTD), Southern Methodist University (SMU) and The University of Texas at Arlington. Graduates remain anchored in the region as the Metroplex offers an enticing proposition, including employment opportunities, a vibrant arts and cultural scene, and lower cost of living compared to places like Silicon Valley.

The health care sector is also making a serious splash in the Metroplex. With major providers like Baylor Scott & White Health and Texas Health Resources expanding rapidly, the region is solidifying its status as a medical mecca. Baylor Scott & White has been particularly busy, adding new hospitals, clinics and specialty care centers to meet the needs of its ever-growing population.

Backed by the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, one of the nation’s top medical institutions, the Metroplex continues to churn out health care professionals and cutting-edge research that’s making waves nationwide.

And let’s not forget the region’s logistics prowess. The Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the world, is a critical hub for air travel and cargo, alongside Hillwood’s massive AllianceTexas development in Tarrant and Denton counties.

WEST TEXAS
West Texas is thriving and evolving, harnessing its natural resources and expansive landscapes to fuel a diverse and dynamic economy. Cities like Midland, Odessa and San Angelo, along with surrounding communities, are not only capitalizing on the region’s traditional strengths but also embracing emerging industries, positioning West Texas for a prosperous and sustainable future.

The region’s semi-arid climate and vast open spaces have long supported a thriving agricultural sector, from cattle ranching to cotton farming and pecan production. Outdoor industries like forestry, fishing and hunting continue to add vitality to the economy, attracting tourists and residents alike, and ensuring economic resilience for years to come.

While energy has long been the backbone of West Texas, the region is expanding into new sectors of this evolving industry. The Permian Basin remains one of the world’s most productive oil fields, driving significant crude oil and natural gas output. Yet, at the same time, West Texas is emerging as a hub for renewable energy. The growing investments in solar and wind power are transforming the region into a key player in the energy evolution sector.

In 2024, West Texas achieved a remarkable milestone in solar energy, surpassing 15 GW of installed solar capacity. High-profile projects like the Roadrunner Solar Farm in Upton County and the Prospero Solar Project in Andrews County are leading the charge, making Texas a national leader in renewable energy production.

Beyond energy, West Texas is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for data centers, which require vast amounts of power and space. With its abundance of land and access to renewable energy, the region offers an ideal environment for these facilities. The dry climate further reduces operational costs, while proximity to diverse energy sources makes West Texas an ideal location for sustainable, high-tech infrastructure.

NORTHWEST TEXAS
Northwest Texas is experiencing a wave of economic transformation. While the region has long relied on oil, gas and mining, it’s now diversifying with a focus on aerospace, engineering and emerging technologies that are driving growth across multiple industries.

In Wichita Falls, aerospace manufacturing is becoming a cornerstone of the local economy. With major players like Pratt & Whitney and Howmet Aerospace establishing operations in the area, the city is rapidly evolving into a key hub for aerospace technology and manufacturing.

The region’s expertise is enhanced by the presence of Midwestern State University (MSU), which offers specialized programs in engineering and aerospace to nurture a skilled workforce. MSU Texas has recently introduced new degree programs, including a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, aimed at supporting the energy industry and regional demand. The university’s new Master of Science in Industrial Technology program is designed to support the local manufacturing sector, particularly personnel at Sheppard Air Force Base.

Meanwhile, Abilene is witnessing an exciting surge in the technology sector, notably with the launch of one of the largest artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure projects in history. During President Donald Trump’s Artificial Intelligence Infrastructure press conference, Abilene was selected as the launch site for Project Stargate, a $500 billion initiative to develop AI infrastructure nationwide.

The first phase, with an investment of $100 billion, will begin in Abilene, with major partners like Oracle, OpenAI, SoftBank, Microsoft, NVIDIA and Arm backing the project. This initiative promises to bring both significant investment and a wave of talent to the region, further positioning Abilene as a leader in emerging technologies.

Together, these developments in Wichita Falls and Abilene are helping to redefine the economic landscape of Northwest Texas, ensuring a bright future driven by innovation and cutting-edge industries.

UPPER EAST TEXAS
With industries spanning health care, manufacturing, logistics and technology, Upper East Texas offers a winning combination of opportunity, connectivity and talent.

Tyler, as the region’s educational epicenter, plays a key role in fueling innovation and workforce development. The city is home to three universities, each contributing to the growing business ecosystem. The University of Texas at Tyler stands out with its top-100 engineering program, providing a steady stream of highly skilled graduates in engineering, business and health sciences. This academic prowess, coupled with the university’s expanding research initiatives, positions Tyler as a hub for technology and industrial growth.

Texas College adds valuable diversity to the region’s educational offerings, preparing students for careers in business, education and the arts. Additionally, Tyler Junior College (TJC) provides practical, career-focused training, offering certifications in fields like health care, IT, welding and automotive technology. TJC ensures that local industries have access to a steady pipeline of qualified talent to meet their evolving needs.

Tyler’s proximity to Dallas, just a two-hour drive away, is another major advantage for businesses. It allows companies to tap into the vast markets of the larger metro area while benefiting from the charm and lower costs of a smaller city.

Not far to the northeast, Texarkana leverages its unique position straddling the Texas-Arkansas border to provide companies with a prime location for access to both state markets, as well as broader Southeast and Central U.S. regions. The city’s location along major transportation corridors like Interstates 30 and 49 makes it a natural hub for logistics and distribution, offering businesses strategic connectivity to key national markets.

Texarkana is not only a transportation hub but also a growing center for commerce and industry. The city’s low cost of living, coupled with its central location, makes it a favorable environment for businesses seeking operational cost savings without sacrificing access to key markets.

UPPER RIO GRANDE
Strategically positioned along the U.S.-Mexico border and the Texas-New Mexico state line, the Upper Rio Grande region is a vital economic gateway, linking American and Mexican markets in a way few other areas can.

El Paso, the region’s largest city, stands at the heart of this cross-border trade economy. With its long-standing history of robust commerce, El Paso has become a major hub for manufacturing, logistics and distribution. Its strategic location makes it a key player for industries such as automotive, electronics and medical devices, serving as a vital shipping point with direct access to markets across the West Coast, Midwest and Southeast. The region’s ability to tap into both global supply chains and a workforce that spans the U.S.-Mexico border makes it an ideal place for manufacturers looking to streamline operations and scale efficiently.

The area’s appeal to investors is undeniable, with significant projects regularly bolstering its economy. A standout example is Schneider Electric USA’s recent announcement to modernize and expand its electric equipment manufacturing facilities in El Paso. This multi-million-dollar investment will create 300 new jobs and further solidify the city’s role as a leader in the manufacturing sector.

Another notable player, Vinton Steel, a subsidiary of Japan’s Kyoei Steel, is investing $229 million to expand its advanced manufacturing facility in Vinton, a suburb of El Paso. This expansion will enable Vinton Steel to recycle over 250,000 tons of ferrous scrap annually, producing high-quality steel using electric arc furnace technology. The project is also supported by a $1.5 million Texas Enterprise Fund grant and a $12,000 veteran-created job bonus. Once complete, Vinton Steel is expected to create 180 new jobs, further demonstrating the region’s ability to attract global investment.

SOUTHEAST TEXAS
From bustling ports along the Gulf Coast to the sprawling forests inland, Southeast Texas is a region that thrives on its diversity. This dynamic blend of urban, industrial and natural spaces fuels industries like energy, transportation, forest products and tourism, all of which are key drivers of the local economy.

Located just over an hour east of Houston, the Beaumont-Port Arthur area is a hotspot in the global trade network. With access to vital waterways, the region’s strategic position is further enhanced by three Foreign Trade Zones, offering unmatched connectivity for international and domestic commerce. Key highways, a regional airport and rail service from multiple Class I carriers ensure the area remains a bustling hub of logistical activity.

But the Beaumont-Port Arthur area isn’t just about logistics — it’s also a powerhouse in the energy sector. The region is home to the world’s largest oil refinery, with industry giants like ExxonMobil, Motiva Enterprises and Valero maintaining a strong presence here.

Southeast Texas is also home to some of the country’s most productive forests, including the Angelina, Sam Houston and Sabine National Forests, as well as the renowned Big Thicket National Preserve. These vast woodlands provide an abundance of timber that fuels a thriving forest products industry, with sawmills, paper mills and a host of wood-based manufacturing businesses calling the region home.

Nacogdoches, known as the “Forest Capital of Texas,” plays a pivotal role in this thriving industry. Surrounded by the lush Angelina National Forest and a network of timber-rich lands, Nacogdoches has long been a hub for sawmills and timber processing. The presence of Stephen F. Austin State University, which offers a prestigious forestry program, ensures that the next generation of forestry professionals is well-trained and that innovative research in forest management continues to push the industry forward.

This blend of natural resources and academic expertise solidifies Nacogdoches’ position as a central player in the regional and national forest products industry.

SOUTH TEXAS
In South Texas, you can catch a sunrise over the desert, shop at bustling downtown centers, and enjoy a sunset on the Gulf — all in the same day. Covering nearly 52,000 square miles, this region offers everything from thriving cities and world-class industries to stunning landscapes. Stretching from the Texas-Mexico border to the Gulf Coast, South Texas is a place where commerce and culture go hand in hand, making it one of the most vibrant, diverse and business-friendly regions in the state.

At the heart of South Texas lies its largest city, San Antonio. Known for its rich cultural history, including the iconic Alamo and the lively River Walk, San Antonio is also a major center for defense, health care and technology. The city’s booming tech scene and strong presence in cybersecurity and medical research are driving economic growth, while its proximity to the U.S.-Mexico border keeps it well-connected to international markets. Just a short drive south, McAllen thrives as a commercial hub, with its booming retail trade and rapid economic growth, particularly in logistics and international commerce.

Along the Gulf Coast, Corpus Christi stands as a major player in the oil, gas and petrochemical industries. Home to one of the largest U.S. ports, Corpus Christi serves as a critical point for energy exports, making it a linchpin in the region’s economy. Further west, Laredo, the largest inland port in the country, serves as a vital connection for goods moving between the U.S. and Mexico, solidifying its role as a gateway city for trade.

Higher education institutions like The University of Texas at San Antonio and The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley are helping to cultivate a highly skilled workforce, ensuring the region remains competitive in a fast-evolving economy.

But South Texas isn’t just about business — it’s also about the beauty of its landscapes. From the coastal shores of Corpus Christi to the rolling hills of the Hill Country, the region is a verified paradise. The Hill Country is home to scenic wineries, clear springs and charming small towns, while the Gulf Coast offers pristine beaches and birdwatching hotspots like Padre Island National Seashore.

Whether you’re looking to grow a business, explore nature or simply enjoy a rich cultural experience, South Texas offers it all.