Port of Houston activity supported $986.9 billion in annual economic value across the United States in 2025, according to a new study by Martin Associates.
The study covered marine cargo moving through public and private facilities along the Houston Ship Channel. Collectively, these facilities form the Port of Houston.
Cargo and vessel activity supported 3,526,686 jobs nationwide.
“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,” he added.
The total economic value supported by Port of Houston activity increased by 9% from 2022.
Between 2022 and 2025, the economic value linked to regional maritime activity rose by $98.4 billion.
The number of jobs supported nationwide increased by 5% compared with 2022.
Marine cargo activity along the Houston Ship Channel supported $537.7 billion in annual economic value across Texas.
This figure represented 18.5% of the state’s gross domestic product and an increase of 22% from 2022.
The economic benefits reached 98% of counties in Texas.
Port activity also supported 1,886,172 jobs across the state, up 22%. The number of Texas jobs linked to the port increased by 345,755 between 2022 and 2025.
In addition, the activity generated $15.6 billion in state and local tax revenue. This represented an increase of 47% from 2022.
The Houston Ship Channel connects Texas producers, manufacturers and energy companies with domestic and international markets.
“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,” he added.
Martin Associates examined cargo and vessel activity at Port Houston’s eight public terminals and more than 200 private facilities along the Houston Ship Channel.
The study used data from more than 1,000 companies involved in cargo movement, transportation, logistics, manufacturing and related industries.
The analysis covered 2025. Meanwhile, tonnage along the Houston Ship Channel increased by 16% year on year during the first half of 2026.
