Economic Development 

Galveston Island is a coastal barrier island located along the Gulf Coast of Texas. Galveston's convenient coastal location along with its close proximity to Houston, has contributed to the city becoming the economic engine it is today - including being the employment center of Galveston County. 

Businesses wishing to locate in Galveston will benefit from the City's continued investment in infrastructure, a trained and diverse workforce, world renowned healthcare facilities, excellent centers of education, and an unmatched quality of life.  

Galveston known as the "Port and Playground of the South" has been at the epicenter of Texas history since its settlement in 1839. Many of the state's "firsts" occurred in or can be contributed to Galveston.  Steeped in its rich history, while building on its foundation of innovation and entrepreneurship, Galveston continues to grow, diversify, and expand its importance in the Greater Houston Area, and its value as a place to live, work, and play.

Galveston Highlights

  • Population:
    • 53,000
  • Property Tax Rate:
    • $0.56
  • Location
    • 45 minutes south of downtown Houston
    • 35 miles from Hobby Airport
    • Located along the Gulf of Mexico
  • Major Industries
    • Education and Healthcare 
    • Maritime
    • Tourism and Hospitality
  • Visitor Metrics
    • 7 Million Annual Visitors 
    • $833M Total Visitor Spending
  • Construction Permits 

Are you considering relocating your business?

Galveston is an appealing place to live and work. Galveston has a business-friendly environment with vast opportunities, including two universities, a port complex and a robust cultural scene with local restaurants and entertainment.

You can ditch your long commute and take your morning drive along the Gulf - or work remotely within steps of the beach. In Galveston, you're never more than a few blocks from the beach.

The City has made major investments to local infrastructure and revitalized downtown and Galveston's major thoroughfares. We have a streamlined and easy-to-access permitting process for new ventures - and there are opportunities for redevelopment across the island.

With a regional airport, a short drive to an international airport and just 45-minutes from downtown Houston, Galveston is the gem of the Gulf Coast.

If you're considering relocating to Galveston or opening a new business here, please check our "Business Resources" tab in the left-hand menu. The City of Galveston looks forward to working with you to assist in any way needed. 

Still have more questions?

Business owners or entrepreneurs considering the move, may contact the Galveston Economic Development Partnership or the City's Development Services department.

Sunrise