Texas
State Motto
Texas State Information
Texas is the 28th State in the Union
Texas, located in the southern United States, is the second-largest state by both area and population. Known for its vast and diverse landscapes, Texas offers everything from sprawling deserts and lush forests to coastal plains and vibrant cities. With a rich cultural heritage influenced by Mexican, Native American, and Western traditions, Texas is often associated with cowboy culture, rodeos, and a love for barbecue. Its major cities, including Houston, Dallas, and Austin, are economic powerhouses and cultural hubs, while the state's natural wonders, such as the Big Bend National Park and the Gulf Coast beaches, draw visitors from around the world. Texas is also famous for its independent spirit, historical significance, and strong sense of identity, making it a unique and iconic part of American culture.
What's in a name?
Derived from the Caddo word 'tejas,' meaning 'friends' or 'allies.'
Texas Geography
Area: | 268,596 sq mi (695,664 kmĀ²), 2nd |
Highest Point: | Guadalupe Peak; 8,751 ft (813 m), 14th |
Lowest Point: | Gulf of Mexico; Sea Level, 0 ft (0 m) |
Bordering States: | Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma |
Area Codes: | Area Codes of Texas |
Zip Codes: | Zip Codes of Texas |
Texas boasts a diverse and expansive geography that encompasses nearly 270,000 square miles. Its landscape is characterized by vast stretches of arid deserts in the west, including the Chihuahuan Desert and the iconic Big Bend National Park. Moving eastward, the state transitions into rolling prairies and the fertile plains of the Texas Panhandle. The central region features the Hill Country, known for its rugged terrain and limestone hills. To the southeast, the Gulf Coastal Plains offer a humid and subtropical climate with rich marshlands. Texas also boasts a lengthy coastline along the Gulf of Mexico, featuring beautiful beaches and a unique coastal ecosystem. The state's geography is further defined by major rivers, including the Rio Grande, the Brazos, and the Colorado, as well as an array of natural landmarks such as the Guadalupe Mountains, Palo Duro Canyon, and the Piney Woods of East Texas. This diverse geography contributes to Texas's status as a state of remarkable natural beauty and ecological diversity.
Texas Economy
The economy of the state of Texas is robust and diverse, making it one of the largest and most dynamic in the United States. With a GDP that ranks it among the top economies in the world, Texas has a thriving energy sector, particularly in oil and natural gas production, as well as renewable energy sources like wind and solar power. The state is a leader in agriculture, technology, manufacturing, and healthcare, with major companies and industries contributing significantly to its economic vitality. Texas also benefits from a rapidly growing population, a pro-business environment, and strategic geographic positioning for international trade, including a prominent role along the U.S.-Mexico border. Overall, Texas' economy is marked by resilience, innovation, and a diverse range of industries that continue to drive its economic growth and prosperity.
Agriculture
Top 3 crops / livestock for Texas
- Hay
- Cattle
- Dairy
Industry
Top 3 industries for Texas
- Energy
- Technology
- Healthcare
Texas State Symbols
State Bird
MockingbirdState Flower
BluebonnetState Fish
Guadalupe BassState Insect
Monarch ButterflyTed Grajeda
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