Texas is a state of endless possibilities, with a thriving economy supported by a variety of industries. From energy to healthcare and technology, Texas offers a wealth of opportunities for both residents and newcomers. Whether you’re considering a move to the Lone Star State or exploring real estate options in cities like Austin or Dallas, understanding the key industries driving Texas is essential for making informed decisions. Below, we delve into ten major sectors that make Texas a great place to live and work.
Texas Overview: Home prices, income, and job market
Top Employers in Texas
- Walmart: 175,000 employees
- The University of Texas System: 104,000 employees
- Amazon: 89,000 employees
- Home Depot: 40,000 employees
- Target: 39,000 employees
10 Key Industries in Texas
1. Gasoline and Petroleum
Major Companies: Motiva Enterprises (Houston), Sunoco LP (Dallas), Phillips 66 (Houston)
Texas leads the nation in gasoline and petroleum wholesaling, supported by a robust infrastructure. Companies like Motiva Enterprises and Sunoco LP offer opportunities in distribution, logistics, and supply chain management. With over 50,000 employees statewide, this industry plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth flow of gasoline and oil throughout Texas. Cities like Houston provide a stable environment and competitive salaries for professionals in this field.
Considering a career in gasoline and petroleum in Texas? Explore real estate options in Houston or Dallas.
2. Oil Drilling and Gas Extraction
Major Companies: ExxonMobil (Spring), Chevron (Houston), Pioneer Natural Resources (Irving)
Texas is a leading producer of oil and natural gas, driving the oil drilling and gas extraction industry. Companies like ExxonMobil and Pioneer Natural Resources hire professionals in engineering, geology, and field operations. With over 400,000 jobs in the state, skilled workers have ample opportunities for growth and development. Whether in energy-focused cities like Midland or Houston, Texas offers a stable environment for those in the oil and gas sector.
Considering a career in oil drilling in Texas? Explore real estate options in Houston or Irving.
3. Petroleum Refining
Major Companies: Valero Energy Corporation (San Antonio), Marathon Petroleum (locations in Texas), Flint Hills Resources (locations in Texas)
The petroleum refining industry in Texas converts crude oil into essential products like gasoline and diesel. Employers like Valero Energy Corporation offer roles in refinery operations, environmental compliance, and engineering. With major hubs in Houston and Corpus Christi, this sector contributes significantly to the state’s GDP. Relocating to Texas means access to well-paying jobs in a critical industry for global energy supply chains.
Considering a career in petroleum refining in Texas? Explore real estate options in San Antonio or New Braunfels.
4. Gasoline and Petroleum Bulk Stations
Major Companies: Kinder Morgan, Buckeye Partners, Enterprise Products (all based in Houston)
Bulk stations in Texas play a crucial role in storing and distributing petroleum products on a large scale. Companies like Kinder Morgan and Buckeye Partners offer opportunities in storage facility operations, transportation, and maintenance. With a focus on efficiency, this sector supports the seamless movement of fuel across the state, benefiting local economies and providing avenues for career growth.
Considering a career in petroleum refining in Texas? Explore real estate options in Houston or Sugar Land.
5. Electronic Parts and Equipment
Major Companies: Mouser Electronics (Mansfield), TTI Inc. (Fort Worth), Texas Instruments (Dallas)
Texas is a hub for electronic parts wholesaling, with major players in Dallas and Fort Worth. Employers like Mouser Electronics and Texas Instruments offer roles in logistics, sales, and technical support. With a focus on innovation and technology, this sector benefits from Texas’s conducive environment for growth. Moving to Texas means access to employment in a high-tech field and proximity to industry leaders driving technological advancements.
Considering a career in electronic parts and equipment in Texas? Explore real estate options in Dallas or Fort Worth.
6. New Car Dealers
Major Companies: Sewell Automotive Companies (Dallas), Group 1 Automotive (Houston), AutoNation Texas (various locations)
Texas boasts a thriving automotive market, supported by new car dealerships across the state. Companies like Sewell Automotive hire professionals in sales, service, and administration. With strong economies in cities like Dallas and Houston, residents have access to a wide range of opportunities in the automotive sector. For those seeking a career in the industry, Texas offers a vibrant market with ample room for growth.
Considering a career in the automotive industry in Texas? Explore real estate options in Dallas or Houston.
7. Automobile Wholesaling
Major Companies: Cars.com (locations in Texas), Manheim Auto Auction (locations in Texas), Copart Inc. (Dallas)
The automobile wholesaling industry in Texas facilitates the movement of vehicles between manufacturers and dealerships. Companies like Manheim Auto Auction offer roles in logistics, sales, and auction coordination. With Dallas as a major hub, professionals in this sector have access to career opportunities in transportation and wholesale management. Given Texas’s expansive road network and population growth, the auto industry plays a vital role in the state’s economy.
Considering a career in automobile wholesaling in Texas? Explore real estate options in Dallas or Plano.
8. Healthcare
Major Companies: Baylor Scott & White Health (Dallas), HCA Healthcare (offices in Texas), Texas Health Resources (Arlington)
The healthcare industry is a cornerstone of Texas’s economy, employing nearly 2 million people. Major healthcare providers like Baylor Scott & White Health offer roles for nurses, physicians, and support staff across the state. With state-of-the-art facilities in cities like Dallas and Houston, professionals in the healthcare sector have access to top-notch resources and opportunities for advancement. Moving to Texas means being part of an industry dedicated to enhancing lives.
Considering a career in healthcare in Texas? Explore real estate options in Dallas or Arlington.
9. Real Estate Loans
Major Companies: Frost Bank (San Antonio), PrimeLending (Dallas), Movement Mortgage (locations statewide)
The flourishing housing market in Texas has led to a thriving real estate loans sector. Companies like Frost Bank and PrimeLending provide opportunities for loan officers, underwriters, and financial analysts. With competitive mortgage options available, cities like Austin and San Antonio have become attractive destinations for homebuyers. Whether you’re looking to buy or rent, the real estate loans industry in Texas supports affordable housing and economic prosperity.
Considering a career in real estate loans in Texas? Explore real estate options in Dallas or San Antonio.
10. Commercial Banking
Major Companies: JPMorgan Chase (locations in Texas), Bank of America (locations in Texas), Comerica Bank (Dallas)
Texas’s commercial banking sector provides financial services to individuals and businesses across the state. Companies like Comerica Bank, headquartered in Dallas, offer roles in banking, analysis, and customer service. With a strong economy attracting major banking institutions, Texas provides stability for homeowners and renters alike. For those considering a move to Texas, the commercial banking industry offers financial support and diverse career opportunities.
Considering a career in commercial banking in Texas? Explore real estate options in Dallas or Garland.