When Waylon Jennings sang about the prettiest town he’s ever seen, he was singing about Abilene. That pretty town sits in the Northwest region of Texas, a section that stretches from Oklahoma in the north to the Colorado River in the south. The Northwest Texas region area covers about 27,600 miles and borders Big Spring to the west and Forth Worth on the east. Its well-known metropolitan areas include Abilene and Wichita Falls, but there are plenty of small towns too. If you’re planning to relocate to Texas, read on to learn more about the Northwest Texas region:

Dynamic economy: The Northwest Texas economy is dynamic and competitive. Many different industries contribute to the economic growth of the area, and its economic centers are mainly in Abilene and Wichita Falls. In order to help with this growth of businesses, the Texas Economic Development Connection is available for companies who are expanding or relocating to Texas. With local partners, the Texas EDC helps connect companies to a community best suited to help grow businesses.

Industries Aplenty: With its plentiful grassland and water sources, Northwest Texas once served as an ideal place for cattle to roam. Cattle are still a major part of the Texas economy. The region now counts animal production and aquaculture among its many industries. Other industries in the area include: rail, mining, oil and gas, pipeline, nonmetallic mineral manufacturing, and leather product manufacturing. There’s room for more industrial growth too.

Small Towns, Big Opportunities: The Northwest region boasts towns like Bowie and Jacksboro. Bowie is a booming small town that sits along two major rail lines. Its proximity to major markets and connection to state highways makes it an ideal location. Bowie also offers year-round opportunities to enjoy the outdoors with nearby parks, biking, camping, fishing, and rodeos. Jacksboro is conveniently located close to both the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex and the Wichita Falls market. With competitively priced land, Jacksboro is a welcoming place for businesses, employees, and their families. Adjacent to beautiful Lake Jacksboro, the town is developing a new 177-acre business park.

Business Incentives: As Texas continues to grow, many organizations and incentives can help with business relocation and establishment. The Bowie Economic Development Corporation assists with identifying available sites for retail, commercial, and industrial development. Economic development organizations often help with building relationships between business owners, investment groups, and developers. Other business incentives include the Texas Enterprise fund, a deal-closing fund that can be used for a variety of economic development projects.

A Workforce-oriented Approach to Education: The Northwest region is home to some great universities as well as high-quality junior and community colleges. In Bowie, many high schools offer workforce training programs that guide students in basic trade principles for jobs in industries like welding or oil and gas production. North Central Texas College works with Texas Workforce Solutions to offer on-site training and opportunities for specialized workforce needs.   

Great Outdoors: A great work-life balance is essential. Northwest Texas offers plenty of open spaces for enjoying the great outdoors. Wichita Falls sits on the edge of two beautiful lakes: Lake Arrowhead and Lake Wichita. At Arrowhead State Park, you can fish, swim, hike, or camp. Fort Richardson in Jacksboro, founded in the 1800s, has 7 original Civil War buildings. Activities there include hiking, biking, and fishing at Quarry Lake.

Sweet Land of Literacy: Abilene is home to more than 20 larger-than-life literary sculptures that pay homage to children’s literature. The Lorax and Stuart Little are among the favorite characters featured. This city has earned the nickname the Storybook Capital of America. It also has the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature, an inspiring place for kids and adults alike.

Golfer’s Dream: The weather in the Northwest region is temperate, making it easy to hit one of the best public golf courses in the state. Diamondback Golf Club sits on 220 green acres near Lytle Creek. Or, if miniature golf is more your speed, Play Faire Park is the oldest continuously operated mini golf course in Texas.

Experience the Old West: The Northwest region embraces its history and heritage. Abilene is home to a museum with lively holographic exhibits called Frontier Texas! This area was once home to Native American tribes, and that history is not forgotten. Buffalo Gap Historic Village offers opportunities to see Western and Native American artifacts.

Getting settled in just the right place in Texas is key. The Texas Economic Development Connection can help you do just that. Check out the Relocation Planning Tool to help find the best fit when you relocate to Texas.