TYLER, Texas – As Texas continues to boom, the Texas Triangle — anchored by Dallas–Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio and Austin — remains at the heart of the state’s rapid expansion, fueling economic and population growth across its sprawling megaregion. Increasingly, the Tyler region and surrounding East Texas communities are finding themselves drawn into this wave of prosperity and opportunity.
Located roughly 90 miles east of Dallas, Tyler is now recognized as an “emerging fourth point” of the Triangle, according to regional business leaders. The area’s rising profile is driven by record-setting job creation, ongoing infrastructure investments like Loop 49, and a population that has grown steadily over the past decade. According to recent census data, Tyler’s city population has jumped more than 12 percent since 2010, with Smith County experiencing similar gains as families and companies relocate for jobs and quality of life.
Economists are optimistic about what’s ahead. Dr. Ray Perryman, president of The Perryman Group, shared during the 41st annual Economic Outlook event in January that the Tyler area is “very well situated right now for economic growth.” He noted that Tyler outpaced Texas in job growth last year—up 10.6 percent compared with the state’s 10.2 percent—and added, “There’s a lot of things going on here… workforce, job opportunities and very pleasant quality of life,” as reported by the Tyler Morning Telegraph.
Growth is bringing new jobs in manufacturing, health care, education and logistics. The Tyler Economic Development Council has purchased more than 680 acres since 2023—including 281 acres for a new business park—geared toward logistics, AI-driven data centers, manufacturing and wood processing plants. Scott Martinez, president and CEO of the TEDC, said in a December interview with the Tyler Morning Telegraph, “No product, no project… people want to be in Tyler, they want to be in Smith County, and now they actually have a place where I can put them.”
Officials say these positive trends are poised to benefit communities across Smith, Cherokee, Anderson and Henderson counties—including Bullard, Whitehouse, Troup, Flint, Frankston and Arp—as new residents and employers seek East Texas hospitality and affordability with strong connectivity to major metros.
Local leaders stress that growth must not come at the cost of community identities. The ETX Bell hopes to support ongoing efforts across the region to celebrate local culture, preserve historic landmarks, and promote community events that keep cherished traditions alive. As East Texas steps onto a bigger stage, we are committed to helping blend new opportunities with a deep respect for the individuality of each community.
Housing remains a challenge, Perryman cautioned, calling for more investment in homes, power reliability, roads and water systems to keep pace with population and economic gains.
As the Texas Triangle expands, the Tyler region is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the next chapter of East Texas life—balancing progress with rich traditions for generations to come.
