West Texas Area of Economic Development

Covering over 38,200 square miles, the West Texas region stretches from Mason in the east to the Rio Grande in the west, encompassing the Odessa, Midland, and San Angelo metropolitan areas.

The landscape is defined by vast open plains, rugged mountains, and the rhythmic motion of pumpjacks—an enduring symbol of the region’s deep ties to the oil and gas industry. While energy production remains a cornerstone of the local economy, West Texas also boasts abundant natural resources that support thriving mining, construction, and agricultural sectors.

Economic development efforts in the region have expanded beyond traditional industries to include tourism, forestry, fishing, hunting, and utilities, capitalizing on the area’s unique geography and natural assets. The region is home to a strong workforce supported by institutions such as The University of Texas Permian Basin and Angelo State University, which provide education and training for high-demand fields. Employment is on the rise in personal care services, management, and architecture and engineering, reflecting the region’s evolving economic landscape.