Abilene, Texas

Abilene, Texas boasts a diverse economy with many advantages over cities of similar size in the region also known as the Big Country. One of the strengths of this community is its emphasis on higher education. Abilene is home to six institutions of higher education; Abilene Christian University, Hardin Simmons University, McMurry University, Cisco College, Texas State Technical College, and a Texas Tech Abilene campus housing its School of Nursing, School of Pharmacy, and School of Public Health.

One of the reasons Abilene is known as the Key City is because, the city is the geographic key to the success of the region, pulling workforce from twelve surrounding counties. Dyess Air Force base remains the number one employer in the region. Healthcare, higher education and the public school system also make up major employment sectors for Abilene. In addition, Abilene headquarters many manufacturing, energy sector, and telecommunications companies that contribute significantly to the city’s job market.

One of the most significant reasons people like to live in Abilene is its quality of life. Factors that contribute to quality of life include public service, volunteerism, and philanthropy. The Chronicle of Philanthropy magazine estimates Abilene is among the top twenty percent of American metropolitan areas for median contributions to philanthropic organizations. Cultural events, the arts, sports, and activities centered in the area’s rich Western heritage abound in Abilene.

With its central Texas location, Abilene is truly a destination to experience.