Houston, the fourth most populous city in the United States, is well known as a center for energy, medicine, international business and technology. The seat of Harris County, Houston is located on the upper Gulf Coast approximately 50 miles from the Gulf of Mexico. The city's MSA consists of ten counties and there are more than 22 million people living within 300 miles of the city. Houston is predicted to outpace the nation in job growth and population growth in the future.

The engine that drives Houston's thriving international trade and commerce is the Port of Houston. This 25-mile long complex of diverse public and private facilities along the Houston Ship Channel is just a few hours sailing time from the Gulf of Mexico. Houston's port has long been the nation's leading port in terms of foreign tonnage and is the world's sixth largest port. Additionally, the world's largest petrochemical complex neighbors the port along the Houston Ship Channel. For years, Houston has been known as the Energy Capital of the World, but the city boasts a diverse economy with expanding industries in the areas of engineering and design services, health care services and electronics, including NASA Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center. In addition, Houston has the largest medical complex in the nation, with seven general and six specialized hospitals.

The Houston region offers a sparkling diversity in lifestyle. The climate is typically moderate and sunny, and allows residents and visitors to enjoy year-round outdoor recreation. The numerous lakes and nearby Gulf of Mexico provide outlets for sport fishermen and boating enthusiasts. Dining is spectacular with over 11,000 restaurants and eating establishments. Sports fans can support professional teams in football, basketball, baseball, hockey and soccer. Houston is also home to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. The largest rodeo in the world, it attracts more than 1.8 million visitors each year.

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