Bexar County, TX is a bustling hub of economic activity, with a diverse range of businesses operating within its borders. As an expert in the field of business development, I have closely studied the business landscape of Bexar County and can provide valuable insights into the total number of businesses in the area.
The Growth of Businesses in Bexar County
Bexar County is home to the city of San Antonio, which is the second most populous city in Texas and the seventh most populous city in the United States. With a population of over 2 million people, it is no surprise that Bexar County has a thriving business community. According to the latest data from the U. S.Census Bureau, there are over 100,000 businesses operating in Bexar County. This includes both small and large businesses across various industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, retail, and hospitality. The number of businesses in Bexar County has been steadily increasing over the years. In fact, between 2010 and 2019, there was a 17% increase in the total number of businesses in the county. This growth can be attributed to several factors such as a growing population, a favorable business climate, and government initiatives to support entrepreneurship.
The Impact of Small Businesses
Small businesses play a crucial role in the economy of Bexar County.In fact, over 90% of businesses in the county are classified as small businesses, with less than 500 employees. These small businesses not only contribute to job creation but also add diversity to the local economy. The Small Business Administration (SBA) defines a small business as one that has less than 500 employees for most industries. However, for some industries, the threshold may be higher. For example, in the manufacturing industry, a small business can have up to 1,500 employees and still be considered a small business. In Bexar County, the majority of small businesses fall under the category of non-employer businesses, which means they have no paid employees.
These businesses are typically owned and operated by a single individual or a partnership and include freelancers, consultants, and independent contractors.
The Top Industries in Bexar County
As mentioned earlier, Bexar County is home to a diverse range of businesses across various industries. However, there are a few industries that stand out in terms of the number of businesses and their contribution to the local economy. The healthcare industry is the largest employer in Bexar County, with over 100,000 employees. This industry includes hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities. The presence of several military bases in the county also contributes to the high number of healthcare jobs. The manufacturing industry is another major contributor to the economy of Bexar County.With over 1,000 manufacturing companies, this industry employs over 50,000 people. The top products manufactured in Bexar County include computer and electronic products, food products, and fabricated metal products. The retail industry is also a significant contributor to the local economy. With over 10,000 retail establishments, this industry employs over 100,000 people. The top retail companies in Bexar County include H-E-B Grocery Company, Walmart, and Target.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Businesses in Bexar County
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on businesses all over the world, and Bexar County is no exception.The county has seen a decline in the number of businesses due to the economic downturn caused by the pandemic. According to a report by Yelp, over 1,000 businesses in Bexar County have permanently closed since the start of the pandemic. This includes restaurants, retail stores, and other small businesses that were unable to survive the financial strain caused by the pandemic. However, there is some good news as well. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, many businesses in Bexar County have adapted and found ways to continue operating. This includes shifting to online sales, implementing safety measures, and offering delivery or curbside pickup options.
In Conclusion
The total number of businesses in Bexar County, TX is constantly evolving, with new businesses opening and others closing.However, one thing is for sure - Bexar County is a thriving business community with a diverse range of industries and opportunities for growth. As an expert in business development, I am confident that Bexar County will continue to attract entrepreneurs and businesses looking to establish themselves in a dynamic and supportive environment. With its growing population, favorable business climate, and diverse economy, Bexar County is a prime location for businesses of all sizes.
