Cameron County is part of the vibrant Rio Grande Valley and northern Mexico region known for its rich history and unique culture. The area provides access to a market of 3 million people. The county's population is 431,874 and the median age of the population is 32.4.
The skilled civilian labor force is 192,361. The top employment sectors include healthcare, manufacturing, retail and education. Its unemployment rate in 2024 was 5.1%
In terms of education, it has 21,373 students in higher education. The major higher education institutions in Cameron County include the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Texas State Technical College, and Texas Southmost College.
Cameron County is located at the tip of Texas, bordering Mexico to the south and the Gulf of Mexico to the east. This is the heart of North American supply chain for numerous industries.
Cameron County has three interstates linking Cameron County to national and international markets. It has three seaports, consisting of two deep water seaports and a barge service port, three airports offering convenient air travel and cargo options, and five international bridges connecting Cameron County to Mexico, including a rail bridge.
Cameron County has tax increment reinvestment zones. These TIRZ promote targeted development across multiple cities, and encourage development and redevelopment. For example, Los Fresnos TIRZ No. 1 has seen a $69 million-plus value increase since 2015.
Cameron County has a business friendly environment. This environment includes active tax abatement programs that attract major investments; diverse industries such as Space, Energy, Manufacturing and Agriculture; and support for both local, established companies and innovative startups.
Cameron County has infrastructure for growth, including an extensive road and rail network that connects to major economic centers. It has the Rio Bravo pipeline, which covers 137 miles and has a capacity of 4.5 billion cubic feet per day, which supports energy sector development and export capabilities.
Cameron County has impressive investment. The highlights include Space industry, with SpaceX Starbase driving aerospace sector growth; the Energy sector, with major LNG projects and renewable energy initiatives; and Manufacturing, with automotive and cross-border production opportunities.
Cameron County has a low cost of living - 24% below the national average. It has 75 miles of coastline, 230 plus days of sunshine annually, and a young, diverse population with a rich cultural tapestry.
To contact the Cameron County Economic Development Office phone (956) 544-0828 or email raleman@co.cameron.tx.us. Our website is: www.cameroncountytx.gov/economic-development/
Editor's Note: The above commentary was penned by Ramiro Aleman, economic development director for Cameron County, Texas. The commentary first appeared in a flyer produced by his office.
