The Hunt Institute has released its December 2025 update on economic conditions in the Paso del Norte region, tracking key indicators including employment, bankruptcies, and residential construction. The findings reveal signs of economic strain across the border area encompassing El Paso and northern Mexican metropolitan zones. n nEmployment data shows a year-over-year decline in non-farm jobs across major Mexican border cities in 2025 compared to the previous year, suggesting weakening labor markets. In El Paso, financial pressures are evident in a rise in bankruptcy filings through November 2025, affecting both households and businesses. This trend points to growing economic vulnerability among residents and local enterprises. n nIn the housing sector, activity in selected metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) declined, with fewer residential building permits issued. However, the average value per permit increased, indicating a shift toward higher-cost developments despite reduced volume. This pattern may reflect constrained affordability and cautious investment in new housing. n nThese metrics offer insight into the region’s economic health, highlighting challenges in employment stability, household finances, and real estate development. The data helps inform policymakers, business leaders, and community planners about emerging trends along the U.S.-Mexico border. n— news from The University of Texas at El Paso – UTEP
— News Original —
Paso del Norte Economic Indicator Review — December 2025
by Hunt Business Staff n nThe Big Picture n nThe Hunt Institute released its latest Paso del Norte Economic Indicator Review, tracking employment, bankruptcies, and residential building activity across the border region. n nAt a Glance n nEmployment: The largest Mexican border metropolitan areas saw year-over-year declines in total non-farm employment in 2025 compared to 2024. n nBankruptcies: El Paso reported an increase in bankruptcy filings through November 2025, reflecting higher financial strain across both households and businesses. n nHousing: Residential building permit activity weakened across selected MSAs, with fewer permits issued but higher average values per permit. n nWhy It Matters n nThese indicators provide a snapshot of economic conditions in the Paso del Norte region and help contextualize broader trends affecting labor markets, households, and development activity along the border. n nDecember 2025 Report