ENERGY Oklahoma City's energy sector plays a pivotal role in the state's economy, supporting more than 85,000 jobs and contributing $19 billion to the local economy. The city is home to some of the nation's leading energy companies, including Devon Energy, Continental Resources, and Expand Energy Oklahoma City is also at the forefront of the evolving energy landscape. Baker Hughes recently donated its research and innovation center in the Oklahoma City Innovation District to Oklahoma State University. Now known as the Hamm Institute for American Energy at OSU, the center provides hands-on learning opportunities, allowing students to engage with real-world energy challenges in a state-of-the-art facility. HOSPITALITY Oklahoma City’s growing reputation as a top visitor destination has significantly boosted the hospitality sector, contributing to both employment and economic impact. In the Greater Oklahoma City area, more than 91,000 people are employed in the accommodation and food services industry. In the past five years, travel spending in Oklahoma County has averaged $2.6 billion annually. While the industry faced challenges during the pandemic, like much of the nation, it has since rebounded as the economy reopens and people become more comfortable traveling and exploring the city’s attractions.
feet of distribution space following the expansion of its fulfillment center in 2021. Additionally, UPS and FedEx have substantial operations in the region. The city is served by Will Rogers International Airport - Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) 106, offering businesses access to two Class 1 railroads, proximity to two inland ports, and the Port of Houston, which is within 500 miles. RETAIL TRADE Oklahoma City’s growing economy and diverse, affluent population have made it an attractive hub for major retail investment. The city generates 18% of the state’s total sales tax revenue, driven by a strong corporate presence and residents with significant buying power. The metro area is home to some of the country’s most successful retail businesses, including Hobby Lobby, the world’s largest privately owned arts-and-crafts retailer with locations in 47 states; Love’s Travel Stops; and Sonic Drive-In, the largest chain of drive-in restaurants in the U.S. This economic diversification is fueled by Oklahoma City's entrepreneurial spirit and a business-friendly environment that fosters company success. Strong partnerships between business, government, civic leaders, and economic development organizations have led to significant growth and a renaissance in quality of life, making Oklahoma City a standout in the nation. RESOURCES FOR JOB SEEKERS Oklahoma City offers a wide range of career opportunities with one of the lowest unemployment rates in the nation. It’s consistently recognized as one of the best cities for young entrepreneurs and job seekers, and recently ranked in the Top 10 for new college graduates. For full-time employment, OKJobMatch.com allows you to upload your resume and search for jobs, while Oklahoma employers can connect with candidates like you. A Better Life also offers valuable resources, including a job board, internship listings, staffing agencies, and industry tools. Visit ABetterLifeOKC.com/Employment for more.
LOGISTICS The Greater Oklahoma City region is a logistics
powerhouse, thanks to its prime location at the geographic center of North America. Situated at the crossroads of three major interstates— I-35, I-40, and I-44—OKC offers easy access to the U.S. East and West Coasts, as well as trade partners in Canada and Mexico. From Oklahoma City, businesses can reach over 4 million people within a 2.5-hour drive, and most of the U.S. is accessible within a two-day trucking distance. Oklahoma City is home to major logistics operations, including the headquarters of Hobby Lobby, which processes orders for more than 900 stores nationwide from its 10-million-square-foot distribution center. Amazon also has a significant presence, with 4.5 million square
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