Martin Associates report highlights the Houston Ship Channel region’s growing role in the U.S. economy

Port Houston announced findings from a new Martin Associates economic impact study showing marine cargo activity through the public and private facilities along the Houston Ship Channel, collectively known as the Port of Houston, supported $986.9 billion in total U.S. annual economic value in 2025 and 3.53 million jobs.

“The Houston Ship Channel is one of the country’s most important economic corridors, and these findings demonstrate its impact far beyond our region,” said Charlie Jenkins, CEO of Port Houston. “Manufacturers, energy producers, businesses, and consumers across the country depend on this critical gateway to move products.”

Outside of the strong U.S. impact, the report found marine cargo activity along the Houston Ship Channel supported $537.7 billion in annual economic value in Texas alone, equivalent to 18.5% of the state’s GDP. Further, economic benefits reach statewide and are seen in 98% of Texas counties. Activity at the public and private facilities also supported 1.89 million Texas jobs and generated $15.6 billion in state and local tax revenue.

The findings reflect significant growth since the previous Martin Associates report. Between 2022 and 2025, the economic value supported by maritime activity in the region increased by $98.4 billion, while the number of Texas jobs supported by port activity grew by 345,755.

Summary of Key Findings

• $986.9 billion in total economic value supported across the U.S.
  • Increase of 9% compared to 2022
• 3,526,686 jobs supported nationwide
  • Increase of 5% compared to 2022
• $537.7 billion in total economic value supported in Texas
  • Increase of 22% compared to 2022
• 1,886,172 jobs supported across Texas
  • Increase of 22% compared to 2022
• $15.6 billion in state and local tax revenue supported in Texas
  • Increase of 47% compared to 2022

The findings reflect the enormous role the Houston Ship Channel plays in connecting Texas producers, manufacturers, and energy companies with domestic and global markets. The study found economic impacts in communities across Texas and throughout the United States, underscoring the broad reach of industries that depend on goods moving through the Houston Ship Channel.

“Houston has long been one of the world’s leading energy gateways, and the impact of the Houston Ship Channel today extends far beyond any single industry,” said Steve Kean, President and CEO of the Greater Houston Partnership. “Businesses across the country rely on the Houston region to move raw materials, finished goods and energy products. The report’s findings underscore the Houston Ship Channel’s role as an economic engine for our region and one of the nation’s most important strategic assets.”

The study was conducted by Martin Associates and measured the economic impacts generated by cargo and vessel activity at Port Houston’s eight public terminals as well as the more than 200 private facilities located along the Houston Ship Channel. The analysis is based on data collected from more than 1,000 firms involved in cargo movement, transportation, logistics, manufacturing, and related industries.

This study was based on 2025 data. In 2026, tonnage along the Houston Ship Channel is up 16% year to date through June. For the latest insights on cargo activity, vessel traffic, and regional trade performance, visit the Houston Ship Channel Region monthly trade and market report here.