South Texas Area of Economic Development

South Texas is a cost-competitive region for international trade and mission critical operations.

Covering nearly 52,000 square miles, South Texas stretches from the Texas–Mexico border to the Gulf Coast, encompassing San Antonio, McAllen, Corpus Christi, Laredo, and more. Its diverse landscape includes desert terrain, lush Hill Country, and coastal beaches, making it a vibrant place to live, work, and visit.

As a key international trade hub, South Texas connects goods to North America via road, rail, and sea. San Antonio, the region’s largest city, is a center for the defense industry, while coastal cities drive tourism with attractions like the Alamo and scenic beaches. The region’s diverse economy supports fast-growing industries, including technology, transportation, media, and life sciences. Higher education institutions, such as UT San Antonio and UT Rio Grande Valley, help cultivate a skilled workforce to meet industry demand.