Local Economy
The Belton Metro area (Temple-Killeen-Ft. Hood) is a dynamic region strategically located along I-35 and Highway 190. The military, government and medical services sectors are a major influence on the MSA's economy. The manufacturing, service and agricultural/agribusiness sectors also play an important role in the area. Major agriculture related commodities include: corn, hay, beef, pecans, sorghum.
According to the State Comptroller's Office, in the first quarter of 2009, Bell County registered an employment increase of 1.6% compared from last year's first quarter. The state total employment increased 0.3% during the same period. In addition, Bell County had the highest number of retail jobs in 2007, followed by McLennan and Brazos counties. The annual average salary of the region's retail employees was $21,660 in 2006 and $22,303 in 2007.
Overall, jobs in the Central Texas economy are expected to grow by 21% percent between 2003 and 2013.
