Texas Overview

As the second-largest U.S. state by area and population, Texas spans deserts, pine forests, rolling prairies, and a long Gulf shoreline. Its modern identity is shaped by Indigenous nations, Spanish and Mexican eras, the Republic of Texas, and statehood in 1845, producing a distinct civic culture and strong regional identities. Major metros such as Houston, Dallas–Fort Worth, San Antonio, and Austin anchor global business, while smaller cities and rural counties contribute agriculture, energy, and manufacturing to a vast internal market.

Economy

Texas operates as a diversified, export-oriented economy. Energy remains a cornerstone, with oil, natural gas, refining, petrochemicals, and a fast-growing renewable sector. Technology and advanced manufacturing cluster around Austin and North Texas, while Houston’s port complex supports trade, engineering, and life sciences. Agriculture contributes through cattle, cotton, grains, and specialty crops, complemented by a large construction and services base. Tourism is material statewide, from conventions to beach travel and national parks.

Education

Public education is delivered through large ISDs and a statewide higher-education system that includes flagship research universities and regional campuses. UT Austin and Texas A&M are major research engines, joined by institutions such as the University of Houston, Texas Tech, and Rice. Community colleges and technical programs provide workforce pipelines for healthcare, process technology, skilled trades, and fast-moving IT credentials that support regional employer demand.

Culture

Texas culture mixes longstanding traditions with rapid in-migration and global connectivity. Foodways—barbecue, Tex‑Mex, Gulf seafood, and regional immigrant cuisines—serve as visible markers of place. Music is equally defining, ranging from country and Tejano to blues and modern live‑music circuits. High school and collegiate sports are civic anchors, while rodeos, county fairs, and urban festivals reinforce local identity. Large museums and performing-arts institutions in major cities coexist with community theaters, historic courthouses, and small-town event calendars.

Travel and Entertainment

Travel options are unusually broad for one state. Visitors can plan itineraries around iconic history in San Antonio, state government and live music in Austin, museums and dining in Dallas and Houston, and coastal recreation along the Texas Gulf Coast. Nature-focused trips include Big Bend’s desert landscapes, the Hill Country’s rivers and wineries, and birding and fishing on bays and barrier islands. Professional sports, major conventions, and a strong state-park system make Texas workable for both weekend getaways and longer road trips.