View the map of West Texas to locate interstate highways, US highways, railroads, major cities, national parks and major airports. West Texas is a vast region known for its arid landscape, sprawling ranches, and significant oil production. Covering over 100,000 square miles, it includes cities like El Paso and Midland. The region's economy is heavily driven by the energy sector, with the Permian Basin being one of the most productive oil fields in the United States. West Texas is also home to Big Bend National Park, which attracts visitors for its unique desert scenery and diverse wildlife. Despite its sparse population, the region plays a critical role in the energy and agricultural sectors of the state.
Explore the map of West Texas showing country boundary, county boundary, interstate highways, US highways, railroads, major cities, major towns, national parks and airports.
List of Counties in West Texas
Andrews
Bailey
Borden
Brewster
Brown
Callahan
Castro
Cochran
Coke
Coleman
Comanche
Concho
Crane
Crockett
Crosby
Culberson
Dawson
Deaf
Smith
Dickens
Eastland
Ector
El
Paso
Fisher
Floyd
Gaines
Garza
Glasscock
Hale
Haskell
Hockley
Howard
Hudspeth
Irion
Jeff
Davis
Jones
Kent
Kimble
King
Knox
Lamb
Loving
Lubbock
Lynn
Martin
Mason
McCulloch
Menard
Midland
Mitchell
Motley
Nolan
Pecos
Presidio
Reagan
Reeves
Runnels
Schleicher
Scurry
Shackelford
Stephens
Sterling
Stonewall
Sutton
Taylor
Terrell
Terry
Throckmorton
Tom
Green
Upton
Ward
Winkler
Yoakum
Major Cities in West Texas
Region Rank
State Rank
City Name
Population as per 2023 Estimate
County(ies)
1
6
El Paso
678,958
El Paso
2
10
Lubbock
266,878
Lubbock
3
25
Midland
138,397
Midland, Martin
4
29
Abilene
129,043
Taylor, Jones
5
34
Odessa
115,743
Ector, Midland
6
43
San Angelo
99,262
Tom Green
7
95
Socorro
38,238
El Paso
8
133
Horizon City
24,168
El Paso
9
140
Big Spring
22,373
Howard
10
155
Plainview
19,420
Hale
West Texas
West Texas is a distinct and expansive region that covers a significant portion of the state, characterized by its vast open spaces, rugged landscapes, and a strong cultural identity rooted in ranching and oil production. Spanning an area of over 130,000 square miles, West Texas includes major cities such as El Paso, Midland, and Odessa, as well as smaller towns that embody the region's rural heritage. The region is defined by its arid climate, with deserts, mountains, and plateaus forming much of the terrain.
Culture and Society
West Texas has a distinct cultural identity that reflects its history and geography. The region is often associated with the cowboy culture, which is rooted in the ranching heritage that dates back to the 19th century. Rodeos, country music, and a strong sense of independence are hallmarks of the local culture. The people of West Texas are known for their resilience, shaped by the challenges of living in a harsh and often unforgiving environment.
El Paso, the largest city in West Texas, has a unique cultural blend due to its proximity to the U.S.-Mexico border. The city has a strong Hispanic influence, which is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and festivals. The border economy is also a significant aspect of life in El Paso, with trade and cross-border relations playing a crucial role in the local economy.
West Texas is also home to several higher education institutions, including Texas Tech University in Lubbock, which serves as a major educational and cultural hub for the region. The university's presence contributes to the cultural and economic vitality of the area, offering opportunities for research and innovation, particularly in agriculture, energy, and healthcare.
Environmental and Conservation Efforts
The unique landscapes of West Texas, including its deserts, mountains, and grasslands, are home to diverse ecosystems and wildlife. Big Bend National Park, located along the Rio Grande River, is one of the region's most significant natural landmarks, attracting visitors from around the world with its stunning scenery, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The park is a vital part of conservation efforts in West Texas, helping to preserve the area's natural beauty and biodiversity.
However, the environment of West Texas faces challenges, particularly from energy development. The expansion of oil and gas drilling has raised concerns about its impact on the environment, including water usage, air quality, and the disruption of habitats. There are ongoing efforts to balance economic development with environmental conservation, including initiatives to protect the Ogallala Aquifer, manage land use, and promote sustainable practices in agriculture and energy production.
Challenges and Future Prospects
West Texas faces several challenges as it looks to the future. The region's reliance on the energy sector makes it vulnerable to fluctuations in global oil prices, which can lead to economic instability. The ongoing depletion of the Ogallala Aquifer is another significant concern, as it threatens the long-term viability of agriculture in the region.
Despite these challenges, West Texas has considerable opportunities for growth and development. The expansion of renewable energy, particularly wind and solar power, is gaining momentum in the region, offering a potential avenue for diversifying the economy. West Texas is already home to some of the largest wind farms in the United States, and its sunny climate provides ideal conditions for solar energy development.
Investments in infrastructure, education, and healthcare are also critical to the region's future. Improving transportation networks, expanding access to higher education, and enhancing healthcare services can help support the region's growing population and economic base.
History
West Texas, with its vast landscapes and rugged terrain, has a rich history shaped by indigenous cultures, European exploration, frontier settlement, and the rise of the oil industry. This region's history reflects the broader themes of American expansion, conflict, and economic development, making it a crucial part of the narrative of the American West.
Indigenous Cultures
Long before European settlers arrived, West Texas was inhabited by various indigenous groups who adapted to the region's harsh environment. The Jornada Mogollon people, one of the earliest known cultures in the area, built pithouses and left behind intricate rock art in places like Hueco Tanks, near present-day El Paso. The Apache and Comanche tribes later dominated the region, with the Comanche in particular becoming formidable warriors and skilled horsemen after acquiring horses from the Spanish.
The Comanche controlled much of West Texas for centuries, using the vast plains as their hunting grounds. Their dominance was a significant factor in delaying European and American settlement of the region, as they fiercely defended their territory against intruders.
European Exploration and Spanish Colonization
The first Europeans to explore West Texas were Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century. Álvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca, a Spanish explorer, is believed to have passed through parts of West Texas in the 1530s during his long journey across what is now the southern United States. However, significant Spanish settlement did not occur in West Texas until the 17th and 18th centuries.
In 1682, Spanish missionaries established the Ysleta Mission near El Paso, the first permanent European settlement in what is now Texas. This mission became a center for spreading Christianity among the indigenous peoples and served as a foothold for further Spanish expansion into the region. Over time, other missions and presidios (military forts) were established to protect Spanish interests and convert the local population.
Despite these efforts, Spanish control over West Texas was limited due to the region's vastness, the hostile environment, and the resistance of indigenous groups. The area remained largely isolated from the more populated regions of New Spain (modern-day Mexico).
The Mexican and Republic of Texas Eras
After Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821, West Texas became part of the newly established Mexican state. However, the region remained sparsely populated and underdeveloped, with little Mexican influence beyond a few scattered settlements. The Mexican government struggled to control the vast northern territories, including West Texas, leading to frequent conflicts with indigenous tribes and American settlers.
In 1836, after a series of conflicts, Texas declared its independence from Mexico, establishing the Republic of Texas. The Republic's claim to West Texas was largely nominal, as the area remained under the control of indigenous groups and was not significantly settled by Texans. The region's remote location and hostile environment continued to deter large-scale settlement during this period.
American Settlement and the Frontier Era
West Texas began to see more substantial American settlement after Texas was annexed by the United States in 1845. The U.S. Army established forts across the region to protect settlers and trade routes from indigenous raids. Fort Davis, established in 1854, became one of the most important military posts in West Texas, serving as a base for operations against the Apache and Comanche.
The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century was a turning point for West Texas, opening the region to greater economic development and settlement. Towns like El Paso, Midland, and Odessa began to grow as rail hubs, facilitating the movement of people and goods across the region. The cattle industry also boomed during this period, with vast ranches established across the plains. Cowboys drove cattle along the Goodnight-Loving Trail, which passed through West Texas, connecting ranches to markets in New Mexico and beyond.
The Rise of the Oil Industry
The discovery of oil in West Texas in the early 20th century transformed the region's economy and accelerated its development. The Permian Basin, one of the largest and most productive oil fields in the world, was discovered in 1923 near the town of Big Lake. This discovery sparked an oil boom, attracting thousands of workers and leading to the rapid growth of towns like Midland and Odessa.
The oil industry quickly became the backbone of West Texas' economy, shaping the region's identity and culture. The wealth generated by oil led to the development of infrastructure, schools, and other institutions, solidifying West Texas' role as a critical part of the American energy landscape. The industry also brought challenges, including economic volatility due to fluctuating oil prices and environmental impacts related to drilling and extraction.
Modern West Texas
Today, West Texas continues to be defined by its natural resources, particularly oil and natural gas. The region remains a key player in the energy sector, with ongoing exploration and production in the Permian Basin. In addition to oil, West Texas has become a leader in renewable energy, particularly wind power, taking advantage of its vast open spaces and strong winds.
The region's cities, particularly El Paso, have grown into important cultural and economic centers, with diverse populations and ties to both the United States and Mexico. West Texas also retains its frontier spirit, with a strong sense of independence and self-reliance among its residents.
Climate
West Texas is known for its arid and semi-arid climate, characterized by hot summers, mild winters, and low annual rainfall. The region, which spans a vast area including the Chihuahuan Desert and the Llano Estacado plateau, experiences significant variations in temperature and precipitation depending on altitude and geographic location.
Temperature
Summers in West Texas are typically hot, with average high temperatures ranging from 90°F to 100°F (32°C to 38°C) in the lower elevations. In cities like Midland and Odessa, summer temperatures often exceed 100°F, particularly during July and August, which are the hottest months. The higher elevations, such as the Davis Mountains, offer some relief with cooler temperatures, though daytime highs can still reach the mid-80s°F (around 30°C).
Winters in West Texas are generally mild, especially in the lower elevations, where average high temperatures range from 50°F to 60°F (10°C to 16°C). However, nighttime temperatures can drop significantly, with lows occasionally falling below freezing. The higher elevations, particularly in the mountainous areas, experience colder winters with more frequent frosts and occasional snowfall. The Guadalupe Mountains, for example, can see significant snowfall during the winter months, although it generally does not last long.
Precipitation
West Texas receives limited rainfall, with much of the region classified as semi-arid or arid. The average annual precipitation ranges from about 8 inches (200 mm) in the westernmost parts, such as near El Paso, to around 20 inches (500 mm) in the eastern areas of the region. Most of the rainfall occurs during the summer months, typically between June and September, when thunderstorms can bring brief but intense downpours.
The Chihuahuan Desert, which covers much of West Texas, is one of the driest areas in the United States, with some locations receiving less than 10 inches (250 mm) of rain annually. The Llano Estacado, a vast plateau, also experiences low precipitation, contributing to its dry and dusty conditions.
Drought is a common concern in West Texas, particularly during periods of below-average rainfall. The region is prone to prolonged dry spells, which can have significant impacts on agriculture, water supply, and the local economy. Conversely, when rain does come, it often results in flash flooding due to the hard, dry soil that is less capable of absorbing moisture quickly.
Wind and Severe Weather
West Texas is known for its strong winds, particularly in the spring. The region's flat terrain and lack of natural barriers allow winds to reach high speeds, contributing to the area's reputation as a prime location for wind energy production. Wind speeds of 15 to 25 miles per hour (24 to 40 km/h) are common, with stronger gusts during storms.
The region is also susceptible to severe weather, including thunderstorms, hail, and the occasional tornado. Thunderstorms are most common in the spring and summer, often forming rapidly and bringing heavy rain, lightning, and hail. While tornadoes are less frequent in West Texas compared to the state's Tornado Alley, they do occur, particularly in the eastern parts of the region.
Dust storms, also known as "haboobs," are another weather phenomenon in West Texas. These storms are typically triggered by strong winds that lift loose soil and dust into the air, creating large clouds that can significantly reduce visibility and pose hazards to travel and outdoor activities.
Climate Change Impact
Climate change is expected to exacerbate some of the existing climate challenges in West Texas. Rising temperatures may lead to more frequent and intense heatwaves, while changes in precipitation patterns could increase the likelihood of both droughts and flash floods. Additionally, the stress on water resources, already a concern in this arid region, is likely to intensify as demand increases and supplies become more variable.
Geography
West Texas, an expansive and diverse region, covers a vast area of over 130,000 square miles, encompassing a variety of landscapes that range from deserts and mountains to plateaus and plains. The region is defined by its geographic extremes, with elevations ranging from near sea level along the Rio Grande River to over 8,700 feet in the Guadalupe Mountains. This unique geography plays a crucial role in shaping the region’s climate, economy, and way of life.
Topography and Landforms
West Texas is generally divided into several distinct geographic regions:
The Chihuahuan Desert
Occupying much of the western portion of West Texas, the Chihuahuan Desert is the largest desert in North America. It extends from the Rio Grande River in the south up to the Trans-Pecos region. This desert is characterized by its arid climate, rugged terrain, and sparse vegetation, dominated by cacti, yucca, and creosote bush. The desert landscape includes numerous basins and mountain ranges, with the Davis Mountains and the Sierra Blanca among the most prominent.
The Guadalupe Mountains
Located in the northern part of the Chihuahuan Desert, the Guadalupe Mountains are home to Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas at 8,751 feet. This mountain range is part of a larger geological formation that extends into New Mexico and is known for its dramatic cliffs, deep canyons, and ancient fossil reefs. The Guadalupe Mountains National Park preserves much of this area, offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring geological features.
The Llano Estacado
Also known as the Staked Plains, the Llano Estacado is a vast plateau that stretches across the northern part of West Texas and into eastern New Mexico. This region is one of the largest tablelands in North America, characterized by its flat, treeless expanse. The plateau’s elevation averages around 3,000 to 4,000 feet, and it is underlain by thick deposits of caliche, a type of hardened calcium carbonate soil. The Llano Estacado is an important agricultural area, particularly for cattle ranching and cotton farming.
The Edwards Plateau
Extending into the eastern edge of West Texas, the Edwards Plateau is a region of rolling hills, rugged limestone terrain, and numerous springs and rivers. The plateau is an important ecological region, known for its unique flora and fauna, as well as its karst topography, which includes caves, sinkholes, and underground streams. The region also supports a thriving agricultural industry, particularly in sheep and goat ranching.
The Trans-Pecos
Often referred to as the "true West Texas," the Trans-Pecos region lies west of the Pecos River and includes some of the most remote and rugged terrain in the state. This area is characterized by its dramatic desert landscapes, mountain ranges, and wide-open spaces. The Trans-Pecos is sparsely populated, with vast ranches and protected areas such as Big Bend National Park and the Big Bend Ranch State Park.
Water Bodies
Despite its arid environment, West Texas is home to several important water bodies, primarily along its rivers:
The Rio Grande River
Forming the border between Texas and Mexico, the Rio Grande River is the most significant waterway in West Texas. It flows from Colorado through New Mexico and along the Texas-Mexico border, providing essential water resources for agriculture, communities, and wildlife. The river’s path through the region includes dramatic canyons, such as those found in Big Bend National Park.
The Pecos River
A major tributary of the Rio Grande, the Pecos River flows through New Mexico and enters West Texas near the town of Pecos. The river’s course takes it through rugged terrain and deep canyons before it merges with the Rio Grande. The Pecos River is vital for irrigation and supports various agricultural activities in the region.
The Ogallala Aquifer
Although not a surface water body, the Ogallala Aquifer is a crucial underground water source that supports agriculture across the Llano Estacado and other parts of West Texas. This vast aquifer, one of the largest in the world, provides water for irrigation, livestock, and municipal use. However, the aquifer faces significant challenges due to over-extraction, leading to concerns about its long-term sustainability.
Flora and Fauna
West Texas’ varied geography supports a wide range of ecosystems and habitats, home to diverse plant and animal species:
Desert Ecosystems
The Chihuahuan Desert hosts a unique assemblage of flora, including creosote bush, ocotillo, agave, and a variety of cacti. The desert’s fauna includes species adapted to arid conditions, such as roadrunners, javelinas, jackrabbits, and several species of lizards and snakes.
Mountain Ecosystems
The higher elevations of the Guadalupe and Davis Mountains support forests of pinyon pine, juniper, and oak, as well as grasslands and meadows. Wildlife in these areas includes black bears, mule deer, mountain lions, and a variety of bird species, including the golden eagle and peregrine falcon.
Grasslands and Plains
The Llano Estacado and other grassland regions are characterized by shortgrass prairies, which support a range of grazing animals, including cattle, pronghorn antelope, and bison. The region is also home to many bird species, including hawks, quail, and prairie chickens.
Environmental Challenges
The geography of West Texas presents several environmental challenges, particularly related to water scarcity and land use:
Water Scarcity
The arid climate and limited rainfall make water management a critical issue in West Texas. The depletion of the Ogallala Aquifer, the region's primary source of groundwater, poses a significant threat to agriculture and the overall sustainability of the area. Efforts to conserve water and implement more efficient irrigation practices are essential to addressing this challenge.
Desertification
Overgrazing, deforestation, and improper land management practices have contributed to soil degradation and desertification in some parts of West Texas. These issues are exacerbated by the region's naturally arid conditions and can lead to reduced agricultural productivity and loss of native vegetation.
Conservation Efforts
Despite these challenges, there are ongoing efforts to conserve and restore the natural landscapes of West Texas. Protected areas such as Big Bend National Park, Guadalupe Mountains National Park, and various state parks play a crucial role in preserving the region’s unique ecosystems and providing habitat for wildlife.
Economy
The economy of West Texas is heavily influenced by its vast natural resources, particularly in the energy and agriculture sectors. This region, known for its rugged terrain and sparse population, plays a crucial role in both the state and national economy due to its significant contributions to oil, natural gas, wind energy, and agricultural production.
Oil and Gas Industry
West Texas is one of the most important oil and gas producing regions in the United States. The Permian Basin, which spans much of West Texas and southeastern New Mexico, is among the largest and most prolific oil fields in the world. As of recent data, the Permian Basin produces more than 4 million barrels of oil per day, accounting for over 40% of total U.S. oil production. This has made West Texas a critical hub for the nation's energy supply.
The oil boom in the Permian Basin has led to significant economic growth in cities like Midland and Odessa, which are at the heart of the region's oil industry. The development of hydraulic fracturing (fracking) and horizontal drilling technologies has enabled the extraction of oil and gas from previously inaccessible reserves, leading to a surge in production over the past decade. This has also spurred job creation, with thousands of workers employed in drilling, production, and supporting industries.
However, the oil and gas sector is also highly susceptible to fluctuations in global oil prices. The region has experienced periods of boom and bust, with economic activity closely tied to the health of the energy market. During downturns, such as the one triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic, West Texas has seen reduced drilling activity, job losses, and economic challenges.
Renewable Energy
In addition to oil and gas, West Texas is a leader in renewable energy production, particularly wind energy. The region's flat terrain and strong, consistent winds make it an ideal location for wind farms. Texas leads the nation in wind energy production, and much of that capacity is located in West Texas. As of 2021, the state had over 30 gigawatts of installed wind capacity, with the majority of wind farms situated in West Texas and the Panhandle.
The growth of wind energy in West Texas has diversified the region's economy, creating new jobs in construction, maintenance, and operations. Wind energy also provides a stable source of income for landowners who lease their land for wind turbines. The expansion of transmission lines, such as the Competitive Renewable Energy Zone (CREZ) initiative, has facilitated the delivery of wind-generated electricity from West Texas to population centers across the state.
Agriculture and Ranching
Agriculture remains a foundational aspect of West Texas' economy, with cattle ranching and crop production as the primary activities. The region's arid climate and vast expanses of land make it well-suited for large-scale ranching operations. West Texas is home to some of the largest cattle ranches in the country, and beef production is a significant contributor to the local economy.
In addition to ranching, West Texas is an important agricultural region for crops such as cotton, sorghum, wheat, and peanuts. The High Plains region, part of the larger Llano Estacado, is particularly known for cotton production, which benefits from the irrigation provided by the Ogallala Aquifer. West Texas produces a substantial portion of the state's cotton, making it one of the leading cotton-producing areas in the United States.
Water scarcity and the depletion of the Ogallala Aquifer pose ongoing challenges to agriculture in West Texas. Farmers and ranchers in the region are increasingly adopting water-efficient practices and technologies to mitigate the impact of water shortages and ensure the sustainability of their operations.
Economic Diversification and Challenges
While energy and agriculture dominate the economy of West Texas, there are efforts to diversify the region's economic base. Healthcare, education, and technology are growing sectors, particularly in urban areas like El Paso and Lubbock. Texas Tech University in Lubbock is a major educational institution that contributes to research, innovation, and workforce development in the region.
The region also faces significant challenges, including economic volatility due to its dependence on oil and gas, water scarcity, and the need for infrastructure improvements. The cyclical nature of the oil industry means that West Texas communities must continually adapt to changes in the energy market, and there is a growing recognition of the need to build a more resilient and diversified economy.
Demography
West Texas, a vast and diverse region, is characterized by its sparse population, strong cultural identity, and significant demographic shifts driven by economic factors, particularly in the energy sector. Spanning over 130,000 square miles, West Texas includes a mix of urban centers, rural towns, and remote areas, each contributing to the region's unique demographic profile.
Population Size and Density
As of the most recent census data, West Texas is home to approximately 2.7 million people, a small fraction of the total population of Texas, which exceeds 29 million. The region's population density is among the lowest in the state, with vast areas where the population is spread out over large distances. The majority of the population is concentrated in a few urban areas, including El Paso, Midland, Odessa, and Lubbock, while the rural parts of West Texas are much less densely populated.
Urban Centers
El Paso
With a population of over 678,000, El Paso is the largest city in West Texas and the sixth-largest city in the state. Situated on the U.S.-Mexico border, El Paso is a key cultural and economic hub, with a significant Hispanic population that accounts for over 80% of the city's residents. The city's economy is heavily influenced by cross-border trade, military presence at Fort Bliss, and healthcare services.
Midland and Odessa
These twin cities, located in the heart of the Permian Basin, have populations of approximately 142,000 and 125,000, respectively. Both cities have experienced rapid growth due to the boom in oil and gas production, attracting workers from across the country. The population in these areas tends to be younger and more transient, reflecting the cyclical nature of the energy industry.
Lubbock
With a population of about 260,000, Lubbock is a major educational and agricultural center. Texas Tech University, located in Lubbock, contributes to the city's population growth and diversity, attracting students and professionals from various backgrounds. Lubbock also serves as a regional hub for healthcare and retail services.
Rural and Frontier Areas
Outside of these urban centers, much of West Texas is rural, with small towns and ranches scattered across the landscape. These areas have seen varying population trends, with some towns experiencing decline due to outmigration, while others have maintained stability through agriculture and tourism. The rural population is generally older, with many communities facing challenges related to aging infrastructure and limited access to healthcare and other services.
Ethnic and Racial Composition
West Texas has a diverse population, though the composition varies significantly between urban and rural areas:
Hispanic or Latino
Hispanics or Latinos make up a significant portion of the population in West Texas, particularly in El Paso, where they represent over 80% of the city's residents. This demographic group is also prominent in many rural areas, especially those near the border.
White (Non-Hispanic)
White non-Hispanic individuals constitute a majority in many of the rural and suburban areas of West Texas. In cities like Midland and Odessa, this demographic group plays a significant role in the local economy, particularly in the energy sector.
African American
The African American population in West Texas is smaller compared to other regions of Texas, though it is more prominent in cities like Midland, Odessa, and Lubbock. African Americans contribute to the cultural and economic diversity of these urban centers.
Other Racial and Ethnic Groups
West Texas is also home to smaller populations of Native Americans, Asians, and other minority groups, particularly in urban areas where there is greater ethnic diversity.
Age and Household Composition
The demographic profile of West Texas reveals a population that is both aging and youthful, reflecting the region's economic dynamics:
Younger Population
The energy boom in the Permian Basin has attracted a younger workforce, with many individuals and families moving to the region for job opportunities. This has led to a relatively young median age in cities like Midland and Odessa.
Aging Population
In contrast, many rural areas in West Texas are experiencing an aging population, with a higher proportion of residents over the age of 65. This demographic trend poses challenges for rural communities, particularly in terms of healthcare access and the provision of services for older adults.
Household Composition
The household composition in West Texas varies by region, with urban areas tending to have smaller, nuclear families, while rural areas may have larger, multigenerational households. The transient nature of the workforce in the energy sector also means that some areas see a higher prevalence of single-person households or temporary accommodations.
Economic Impact on Demography
The economy of West Texas, particularly the oil and gas industry, has a profound impact on the region's demographics. Economic booms attract an influx of workers, leading to population growth, while downturns can result in outmigration and economic challenges. The fluctuating nature of the energy market makes West Texas a region of both opportunity and uncertainty, influencing the long-term demographic trends.
