El Paso's primary manufacturing sectors are food production, clothing, plastics, medical equipment, electronic equipment and construction materials. Agriculture and livestock also add to the economy. Tourism is also a significant industry. Combined, the call centers provide a large number of jobs. Information technology is a growing industry in El Paso. The economy is also strengthened by the over 70 Fortune 500 companies located in the city.
The University of Texas at El Paso employs a large number of people and has a large impact on the economy. Fort Bliss, a military installation, is also a major economic asset. Fort Bliss includes the United States Army's Air Defense Center which adds a lot to the economy with its products and services. A large number of jobs are provided by the federal government via the Drug Enforcement Agency, Immigration and Naturalization Services and the U.S. Custom Service.
Noteworthy information regarding El Paso: Cost of living index in 2008: 79.3 (national average: 100). Adult population holding a bachelor's degree or better: 18%. Estimated median household income: $36,000.
In El Paso, the leading job providing segments are healthcare, education, business and trade services, telecommunications and international trade.
El Paso's leading employers are provided below:
- Sierra Providence Health Network - Hospital
- Walmart - Retail
- Las Palmas and Del Sol Regional Healthcare - Hospital
- Echostar Satellite Corp - Call center
- MCI Services - Telemarketing
- West Teleservices Corporation - Telemarketing
- Big 8 Food Stores - Grocery
- Sahara, Inc (Natl CTR For Empl. of Disabled) - Contract Manufacturing
- El Paso Electric Company - Electric Utility
- Yazaki North America (EWD & El Com) - MFG Wire harnesses (auto)
- The Hoover Company - Vacuum Cleaners MFG
- Providian Financial - Call center
- Albertson's, Inc Grocery Drug Store
- Data Mark Inc - Data Entry
- Walgreen's Drug Store - Drug Store
- SBC - Telecommunication
- Brylane Inc - Call Center
- Eureka -Vacuum Cleaners MFG
- Union Pacific Railroad Company - Railroad & Freight
El Paso's primary nonagricultural employment sectors:
- Government
- Trade, transportation and utilities
- Healthcare
- Educational services
- Leisure and hospitality
- Professional and business services
El Paso companies are invited to collaborate with associations such as:
- The Greater El Paso Chamber of Commerce
- El Paso Regional Economic Development Corporation
- Texas Economic Development Council
- Texas Association of Manufacturers
- Small Business Administration - Texas
Those interested in El Paso business endeavors can read the El Paso Times.