Investment Overview

Houston is the fourth-largest city in the United States and the largest city in Texas. Situated along the Gulf Coast, it is home to Port Houston, one of the busiest seaports in North America by tonnage. The city is served by two major airports and is intersected by interstate highways I-10, I-45, and I-69, which facilitate efficient freight and commuter travel. Houston’s extensive freeway network, METRORail system, and ongoing investment in bike lanes and pedestrian infrastructure further improve accessibility. Houston continues to draw in corporations, entrepreneurs, and increasing investments due to its lack of state income tax, streamlined regulatory processes, and access to one of the nation’s largest labor pools. The city’s economic environment is outperforming national trends. Houston’s GDP is nearly $700 billion with consistent year-over-year growth. It is one of the fastest-growing major metro areas in the U.S. by GDP. Traditionally known for its energy sector, Houston has significantly diversified, with oil and gas extraction now representing only 3.7 percent of the local GDP, down from 7.7 percent in 2014. Houston has a metro population of over 7.5 million, with projections indicating it will exceed 8.1 million by 2030, outpacing national growth rates. The city is also one of the most ethnically and culturally diverse cities in the United States, with foreign-born residents making up nearly 25 percent of the total population. The city’s median age is 34.7, showcasing a young, experience-driven consumer base that has a growing interest in health, wellness, dining, and lifestyle brands. Additionally, educational attainment in Houston is competitive, with nearly 40 percent of residents possessing a bachelor’s degree or higher, contributing to a skilled and diverse labor pool.