Texas Economic Strength Creates New Opportunities for Denton, TX

Texas has built a reputation as an economic powerhouse, attracting businesses, investment, and talent from across the country. But what drives the state's long-standing economic success? In Ten-Gallon Economy: Sizing Up Economic Growth in Texas, economists Pia Orrenius, Jesús Cañas, and Michael Weiss examine decades of data revealing how Texas has historically outperformed the national economy in employment growth and economic output.

The Denton Economic Development Partnership works to ensure Denton, TX, is well-positioned to capitalize on this economic strength, leveraging the city's strategic location, skilled workforce, and business advantages to attract investment and support continued growth.

What are the main factors that indicate a healthy economy?

Two of the most important factors economists use to evaluate the economy of a given region are employment growth and Gross Domestic Product, or GDP.

According to research presented in Ten-Gallon Economy, Texas employment has historically grown faster than the rest of the U.S., dating back to the 1970s. Texas has historically added jobs at approximately one percentage point faster than the national average. That may not sound significant, but for businesses and investors considering communities for relocation or expansion, sustained growth can make a substantial difference.

Since the mid-1990s, the Texas economy has also experienced periods of GDP growth exceeding the national average. This growth spans a variety of businesses and industries, an important distinction because economic diversity contributes to long-term stability and resilience.

Denton also benefits from a diverse industry base, including advanced manufacturing, logistics, technology, research and development, and sustainable energy. This variety helps strengthen the local economy and creates opportunities for continued business investment.

Why has the Texas economy historically outpaced the rest of the U.S.?

Several factors have contributed to Texas' long-term economic success, many of which also benefit businesses operating in Denton.

• Business-friendly environment: Texas offers a competitive tax structure, a supportive business climate, and opportunities for continued private investment.
• Industry diversity: A broad range of industries helps create economic stability and opportunities for business growth.
• Population growth: Continued migration and population expansion have helped strengthen the state's workforce and consumer markets.
• Manufacturing and global trade: Texas benefits from established manufacturing capabilities and extensive domestic and international trade connections.
• Workforce development: Educational institutions, training programs, and industry partnerships help businesses meet changing workforce demands.

These statewide advantages provide a strong foundation for Denton's continued economic development.

What does Texas’ economic strength mean for Denton, TX?

Denton offers several competitive advantages that position the community to benefit from economic opportunities throughout Texas and the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.

Located where Interstate 35E and Interstate 35W converge, Denton provides strategic access to major transportation corridors, regional markets, and domestic and international business connections.

Denton's competitive advantages include:

• Strategic location within the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex
• Interstate 35E and 35W connectivity
• Access to regional air, rail, and highway transportation
• Workforce development partnerships with the University of North Texas, Texas Woman's University, and North Central Texas College
• A diverse business environment supporting manufacturing, technology, logistics, and entrepreneurship
• A vibrant arts and cultural community that supports talent attraction and quality of life
• Economic development resources for new and expanding businesses

Beyond these advantages, the Denton Economic Development Partnership plays an important role in helping businesses turn opportunities into successful investments.

Through site selection assistance, workforce resources, strategic partnerships, and connections to local business support programs, the Partnership helps companies establish and expand their presence in North Texas.

Texas' long-term economic success provides a strong foundation, but Denton's combination of connectivity, talent, and business resources creates opportunities of its own.

Contact the Denton Economic Development Partnership to learn how your business can benefit from Denton's strategic advantages and become part of its growing economy.