your next investment
Why Bastrop County?
Discover the advantages of investing, working, and living in Bastrop County, Texas.
Reliable Energy
Abundant Water
Prime Location
Scenic Lifestyle
Competitive Incentives
Skilled Workforce
Reliable Energy Abundant Water Prime Location Scenic Lifestyle Competitive Incentives Skilled Workforce
Bastrop County, Texas, stands at the forefront of Central Texas growth - offering unmatched location advantages, natural beauty, a talented workforce, and a supportive business environment. As one of the fastest-growing counties in the region, we're strategically positioned to attract innovative companies while preserving our rural charm and quality of life.
STRATEGIC LOCATION & ACCESSIBILITY
Strategically positioned within the Austin Diamond, Bastrop County connects companies to the region's major economic centers while maintaining room to grow.
Just 30–45 minutes from downtown Austin, giving easy access to the state's tech, finance, and creative hubs
Proximity to major highways (SH 71, SH 21, US 290), Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), and rail lines for efficient logistics
Part of the booming Austin Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), benefiting from spillover growth without the high costs or congestion
NATURAL BEAUTY & QUALITY OF LIFE
Bastrop County is renowned for its scenic landscapes, including:
Towering pine forests of the Lost Pines region
The winding Colorado River and serene lakes
Abundant parks, trails, and outdoor recreation opportunities
These features create an exceptional environment for employees and families—promoting work-life balance, outdoor activities, and community well-being.
STRONG WORKFORCE & EDUCATION
Access to a growing, skilled labor pool supported by local school districts and higher education institutions, providing in-county pathways for technical and workforce training.
Four independent school districts: Bastrop ISD, Elgin ISD, Smithville ISD, McDade ISD
Austin Community College's Elgin Campus
University of Austin's new Engineering Lab providing advanced technical training
Emphasis on training programs aligned with manufacturing, logistics, technology, and creative sectors
Access to 2.4M metro Austin workforce
BUSINESS FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT
A unified economic development approach reducing red tape and aligning resources across Bastrop County, City of Bastrop, City of Elgin, and City of Smithville.
Land-bank parcels available for priority projects
Collaborative support from BCEDP for incentives, site readiness, and infrastructure coordination
Competitive tax incentives and streamlined permitting processes
Freeport Exemptions & Foreign-Trade Zone designation for international operations
Reliable Energy & Water Resources A Rare Powerhouse of Critical Infrastructure
In the heart of the fast-growing Austin MSA, Bastrop County stands out as a rare pocket of available, resilient water and energy resources—an increasingly critical advantage in Central Texas.
This capacity supports long-term industrial growth, advanced manufacturing, and intensive operations, while allowing the region to plan proactively for future demand rather than react to scarcity.
Abundant water supply from local aquifers
Reliable ERCOT grid access with expansion capacity
Natural gas infrastructure for industrial operations
Growing renewable energy sector (solar, battery storage)
Proactive planning for long-term resource sustainability