Texas is divided into 12 economic regions, each with unique industries and resources. The Gulf Coast, anchored by Houston, is a hub for energy and shipping, while the Metroplex (Dallas-Fort Worth) leads in finance and technology. The Upper Rio Grande focuses on cross-border trade with Mexico, and West Texas thrives on oil production from the Permian Basin. South Texas relies on agriculture and international trade, while the Capital region (Austin) drives the state’s tech economy. Regions like the High Plains and Northwest Texas are key agricultural areas, while Southeast Texas focuses on petrochemicals and refining.
Explore the map of Texas regions showing all 12 regions with all counties, county boundaries, state boundary, and country boundary.
12 Economic Regions of Texas
Texas is often divided into 12 distinct economic regions, each with its own unique economic characteristics, natural resources, and industries. These regions reflect the state’s vast size and diverse economic landscape, ranging from the high-tech industries in Central Texas to the oil and gas fields of West Texas. Each region plays a vital role in Texas' overall economy, which is one of the largest in the world. Here's an overview of the 12 economic regions of Texas:
Upper Rio Grande
The Upper Rio Grande region is located in far West Texas, along the U.S.-Mexico border. The largest city in this region is El Paso, which serves as a key hub for international trade. Due to its proximity to Mexico, this region has a strong manufacturing industry, particularly in electronics, textiles, and automotive components. The maquiladora program, which allows factories to operate on both sides of the border, has fueled the local economy. Agriculture, particularly cattle ranching and cotton production, is also significant, and tourism is driven by the region's historical sites and cultural attractions.
South Texas
The South Texas region includes the Rio Grande Valley and areas near the U.S.-Mexico border. Major cities include Laredo, McAllen, and Brownsville. This region's economy is heavily reliant on international trade, agriculture, and oil and gas production. The Eagle Ford Shale, one of the largest oil and gas reserves in the United States, is located here, contributing significantly to the region’s economy. Agriculture in South Texas is focused on citrus fruits, vegetables, and cattle ranching, and cross-border trade is vital, especially through the Port of Laredo, the largest inland port in the U.S.
West Texas
West Texas is a large, sparsely populated region known for its oil and natural gas production, particularly in the Permian Basin, which is one of the most prolific oil fields in the world. Major cities include Midland and Odessa, both of which serve as hubs for the energy industry. In addition to oil and gas, West Texas is also known for its cattle ranching and cotton farming. The region's arid climate makes agriculture challenging, but irrigation supports some farming activity. West Texas also draws tourism due to attractions like Big Bend National Park.
Alamo Region
The Alamo region is centered around San Antonio, the second-largest city in Texas. San Antonio is known for its military bases, tourism, and healthcare industries. The Alamo and the River Walk are major tourist destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year. Additionally, the healthcare and bioscience sectors are significant contributors to the region's economy. The Alamo region also has a growing manufacturing sector, particularly in areas such as aerospace, automotive, and food production.
Capital Region
The Capital region includes Austin, the state capital, and its surrounding areas. This region is one of the fastest-growing in Texas, with a booming technology industry. Companies like Apple, Google, and Dell have large presences in the Austin area, which has earned it the nickname "Silicon Hills." The region is also a center for government and education, with the University of Texas at Austin being a major economic driver. Austin’s vibrant cultural scene, including music, film, and festivals like South by Southwest (SXSW), also contributes significantly to the local economy.
Gulf Coast
The Gulf Coast region stretches along the Gulf of Mexico and includes major cities like Houston, Galveston, and Corpus Christi. This region is a critical center for the energy industry, with a large concentration of oil refineries and petrochemical plants. The Port of Houston is one of the busiest ports in the United States, handling a large volume of the country’s energy exports. The region is also home to the Texas Medical Center, the largest medical complex in the world, and the Johnson Space Center, a key NASA facility. Tourism, fishing, and shipping also play important roles in the Gulf Coast economy.
Central Texas
The Central Texas region, which includes cities like Waco and Killeen, is known for its military presence and growing manufacturing sector. Fort Hood, one of the largest military installations in the world, is located in Killeen, contributing significantly to the local economy. Central Texas also has a strong agricultural sector, with cattle ranching, cotton farming, and poultry production being major industries. The region's central location within the state makes it a key transportation hub as well.
Southeast Texas
Southeast Texas includes cities like Beaumont and Port Arthur and is another region heavily tied to the energy sector. This area is home to some of the largest oil refineries in the country and is a major hub for the petrochemical industry. The Port of Beaumont is one of the largest military shipping ports in the world, supporting both commercial and defense-related activities. Agriculture, particularly rice and cattle farming, is also important in this region.
Upper East Texas
Upper East Texas is known for its forestry and agriculture. The region includes cities like Tyler and Longview and is often referred to as the Piney Woods due to its dense forests. Timber and wood products are key industries, as well as agriculture, particularly poultry farming, cattle ranching, and the production of fruits and vegetables. The region also has a growing healthcare sector, with several major hospitals and medical centers serving the area.
Metroplex
The Metroplex region, also known as North Texas, includes the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area, which is the largest urban economy in Texas. This region is a major center for finance, technology, real estate, and transportation. Dallas is home to a number of Fortune 500 companies, and Fort Worth retains its historical ties to the cattle industry, though it has diversified into sectors such as aerospace and manufacturing. The Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, making the Metroplex a key hub for domestic and international trade.
Northwest Texas
Northwest Texas is primarily an agricultural region, known for its production of cattle, cotton, and grain. Major cities in this region include Wichita Falls and Abilene. In addition to agriculture, the region has a growing wind energy sector, with several large wind farms generating renewable energy. The region’s economy also benefits from military installations such as Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls.
High Plains
The High Plains region covers the Texas Panhandle and includes cities like Amarillo and Lubbock. This region is a major center for agriculture, particularly cattle ranching and cotton and grain farming. The Ogallala Aquifer, one of the largest underground water sources in the world, provides irrigation for the region’s agricultural activities. In addition to agriculture, the High Plains is becoming known for its wind energy production, with large wind farms taking advantage of the region’s open, flat terrain.
