Where Does Texas Belong, Anyway?

We've all wondered: which region does Texas truly belong to? Due to its size, central location, and cultural diversity, it's hard to place Texas into one category.

"Texas is Texas."

As one resident aptly puts it, Texas is its own entity.

But here's how some organizations group the Lone Star State:

• U.S. Census Bureau: South and West South Central (along with Arkansas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma)
• CDC: West South Central
• FEMA: Often grouped with Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, and Oklahoma, but no set region
• USDA: The Great Plains

Breaking it down by region:

• Far West Texas: Culturally aligns with the American Southwest
• West Texas: Shares similarities with the Southwest
• Panhandle & South Plains: Great Plains influence
• North Texas: Connectivity with the South
• East Texas: Echoes of the Deep South
• South Texas: Southern influences
• Central Texas: A blend of Southern and Southwestern cultures

What are your thoughts? Share your opinions and insights: BAddison@gannett.com