McAllen-Edinburg-Mission Area of Economic Development

On the U.S.-Mexico border, population growth and diverse economic growth leads the way.

Located 45 minutes west of Brownsville-Harlingen and 30 minutes north of the Mexico border, McAllen-Edinburg-Mission is a key economic player in South Texas. Top manufacturers, health services providers and more operate in the area for its access to key markets, a solid multimodal transportation network and a talent pool that is continually deepened by area colleges and universities enrolling more than 60,000 students in total.

This South Texas metro is emerging as a powerhouse in cross-border commerce, advanced manufacturing, and healthcare services. With strong GDP growth, rapid job creation, and major infrastructure investments, the region is uniquely positioned to attract investment and support long-term economic expansion. Learn more about the broader South Texas region for business.

McAllen-Edinburg-Mission continues to shine as a top destination for investment, expansion, and innovation. The region’s appeal is rooted in:

• Robust Economic Growth: Real GDP reached $23.99 billion in 2023, up from $23.11 billion in 2022, underscoring sustained economic momentum.
• Job Creation: The region added 8,200 new jobs in the year ending September 2024, a 3.3% growth rate.
• Strategic Trade Location: As a binational metro area with access to international bridges and ports of entry, the region enables seamless trade with Mexico and beyond. The Anzalduas International Bridge expansion is set to further enhance these capabilities.
• Transportation Access: McAllen International Airport served over 1.2 million travelers in 2024 and currently offers nine nonstop routes, supporting the region’s growing role as a key hub for both business and leisure travel.
• Educational Pipeline: Approximately 60,000 college students study locally, with institutions like Texas A&M University’s Higher Education Center in McAllen fueling a talent pipeline for business and industry.

Beyond airport access and international bridges, the region features:

• Modern industrial parks with direct access to highways and rail lines
• Multimodal transport capabilities, including logistics hubs and warehousing
• Ongoing public-private partnerships to expand infrastructure capacity

Key Industries Fueling Growth

The McAllen-Edinburg-Mission region is home to a dynamic economy anchored by:

• Healthcare: The largest employment sector, healthcare and private education represent 30.5% of the workforce as of April 2025. Major hospitals, specialty clinics, and research institutions make this a hub for medical innovation.
• Advanced Manufacturing: Over are employed in the advanced manufacturing community in the McAllen area, supported by cross-border supply chains and high-capacity industrial parks like the McAllen South Industrial Park.
• Retail Trade: With over retail sales in McAllen, the region benefits from strong cross-border shopping and a growing middle class.
• Technology and Corporate Services: Companies like Zoho Corporation are investing heavily, including the purchase of the historic Echo Hotel and a 1,050-acre site in Edinburg for future expansion.
• Food Processing and Agribusiness: The area’s robust agricultural base and infrastructure support food manufacturing and cold storage operations.

Talent Pipeline & Workforce Advantages

With a civilian labor force of over 405,800 and 383,200 employed individuals as of April 2025, employers in the region benefit from a young, diverse, and bilingual workforce. Key drivers include:

• Workforce training programs in collaboration with Texas Workforce Commission
• University-to-career pathways via South Texas College, UTRGV, and Texas A&M
• Entrepreneurial support and upskilling initiatives in each city

Cost of Living & Quality of Life

Housing affordability remains a standout asset for the McAllen-Edinburg-Mission metro. The region offers a diverse mix of housing options—from family-friendly suburban neighborhoods to downtown living—at price points well below the national average. According to the Texas Real Estate Research Center, McAllen consistently ranks as one of the most affordable metro areas in Texas, providing value to both residents and relocating talent.

Average commute times are under 25 minutes, offering a welcome contrast to larger Texas metros and helping residents maintain a healthy work-life balance. Beyond convenience, the area is known for its bicultural vibrancy and year-round calendar of community events, arts festivals, and culinary celebrations that reflect the region’s unique South Texas and borderland heritage.

Families benefit from a strong network of public and private K–12 schools, and proximity to higher education institutions helps foster a culture of lifelong learning. Whether it’s enjoying the World Birding Center, exploring local museums, or shopping in one of the area’s international retail destinations, McAllen-Edinburg-Mission offers a dynamic lifestyle that enhances business retention and community pride.

McAllen-Edinburg-Mission Business Climate & Incentives

From property tax abatements to FTZ advantages, the region’s incentives are built for investment:

• McAllen, Mission, and Edinburg offer site-specific, performance-based incentives
• Freeport Tax Exemptions apply for goods leaving Texas within 175 days
• Chapter 380/381 agreements facilitate large-scale developments
• Workforce development funding through the Texas Skills Development Fund

These advantages are further enhanced by the broader favorable business climate in Texas.

Leveraging Texas’ Economic Strength

McAllen-Edinburg-Mission contributes to Texas’ economic strength as part of a state that leads the U.S. in GDP, exports, and job creation. The region’s ability to harness local talent, attract global investment, and support innovation makes it a compelling choice for businesses seeking long-term value and growth.

Ready to expand in South Texas? Explore more of the business advantages in Texas.