Economic Assets
Location
Hidalgo County is located in the southernmost part of Texas, near the U.S.-Mexico border. It is situated in the Rio Grande Valley, a region known for its warm climate and agricultural production. The county borders the Mexican state of Tamaulipas to the south, with the Rio Grande river forming the natural boundary between the two.
To the north, Hidalgo County is bordered by Starr County, and to the east, it shares a border with Cameron County. The county encompasses cities such as McAllen, Edinburg, and Mission, and it is part of the larger metropolitan area that is one of the fastest-growing regions in Texas. The area has a predominantly flat terrain with a mix of rural, agricultural land and urban areas.
Cost of Living
Hidalgo County, Texas, offers a cost of living below the national average. The median home price in the county is significantly lower than the U.S. median at around $153,000*. Overall, the cost of living in Hidalgo County is lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for those looking for affordable housing and lower day-to-day expenses.
Workforce
Hidalgo County boasts a young, dynamic, and eager-to-work workforce, making it an ideal location for businesses looking for fresh talent. With a median age of around 30 years, the county has a large proportion of young individuals entering the job market, eager to contribute to local and regional economic growth. Many are highly motivated, with a growing emphasis on higher education and vocational training in fields like healthcare, technology, and agriculture. As the region continues to grow, employers benefit from a pool of skilled workers who are ready to fill positions in various industries. The county’s educational institutions, such as the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), are helping to further develop the workforce, producing graduates equipped with the skills needed to meet the demands of modern employers.
Ports of Entry
Hidalgo County, Texas, has several important ports of entry that facilitate trade and travel between the U.S. and Mexico:
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Pharr-Reynosa International Bridge: One of the busiest ports, handling significant commercial trade, especially agricultural products and electronics.
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Anzalduas International Bridge: Connects McAllen to Reynosa, easing traffic flow and supporting both commercial and passenger vehicles.
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Hidalgo-Reynosa International Bridge: Serves commuters and vehicles between Hidalgo, Texas, and Reynosa, Mexico, playing a key role in daily cross-border movement.
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Los Ebanos Ferry: A historic, hand-operated ferry providing a scenic, low-volume crossing for vehicles and pedestrians.
These ports are vital for the region’s economy, supporting trade and cross-border mobility.
Incentives
Hidalgo County provides two key incentives for businesses looking to start or expand in the area: Tax Increment Reinvestment Zones (TIRZ) and Tax Abatements.
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Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ): This program allows businesses to receive funding for infrastructure improvements within designated areas. The property taxes generated from the increase in property values within the zone are reinvested into the development, helping to boost local growth and attract investment.
2. Tax Abatements: The county offers tax abatements, which allow businesses to receive temporary reductions or exemptions on property taxes in exchange for investing in the local economy, creating jobs, or adding new facilities. These abatements can help reduce the initial cost of doing business in the area and provide an incentive for growth.