By Emmy Powell
Communications Specialist

New data from the American Horse Council (AHC) National Economic Impact Study shows Texas has the largest horse population with about 748,829 horses.

The study measured horse industry impacts, involvement and economic contributions while counting Texas horses in every pasture and paddock.

Data shows the equine industry has added $12.3 billion to the Texas economy.

“The equine industry significantly fuels Texas’s economy,” Dr. Chelsie Huseman, AgriLife Extension horse specialist, said. “However, the lack of concrete data makes it challenging to articulate our narrative and make informed decisions. This newfound data will greatly enhance our ability to support both the equine sector and its passionate enthusiasts statewide.”

Land owned or leased for horse-related uses in Texas is about 1.6 million acres or about 2.2 acres per horse.

“That’s always an interesting figure to consider, knowing how valuable land is and how it is becoming harder to come by due to urbanization,” Huseman said. “It shows that the horse industry plays a significant role in preserving agricultural land.”

The study found another area of interest is where the owners are raising their animals, and Huseman said that impacts AgriLife Extension’s educational programs.

“Focusing some of our programming and educational resources on how to manage a smaller herd on smaller acreage is one of the areas we’ve moved toward just in the last five to 10 years,” she said. “More people own just a few horses on five to 10 acres and fewer large operations or ranches run herds of horses.”

The survey also found 30.5% of households contain horse enthusiasts who do not necessarily own a horse. This provides opportunities to engage the public and educate them about horse ownership, Huseman said.

The non-owner participants and spectators are estimated to have spent $3 billion in Texas on travel, dining and lodging while participating in and attending events. Major industry segments that contribute to the Texas economy are racing, competition, recreation and working horses.

About 252,326 horses in Texas are used for recreational purposes, with trail riding as the main equine recreational activity, adding $1.6 billion to the Texas economy.

The AHC National Economic Impact Study is one of the most comprehensive studies for the nation’s equine industry, and AgriLife Extension plans to use the Texas data on horse industry impacts, involvement and economic contributions to guide education and outreach.

View the full report of the 2023 Economic Impact Study of the Texas Horse Industry here.