The two cities comprise the business, financial, educational, cultural and entertainment resource for a vast area of West Texas known as the Permian Basin, from which nearly one-fifth of the nation's crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids are derived. The agreeable climate allows for many year-round outdoor activities. Daytime temperatures are hot in the summer, but there is a large diurnal range and most nights are comfortable.
Winters are mild with temperatures ranging from the upper fifties to the low and middle thirties.
The very low humidity is conducive to personal comfort. The area offers a kaleidoscope of activities ranging from a Shakespeare festival to a quarter horse show and rodeo. There are celebrations centered on bluegrass music and ethnic heritages. Recreational facilities include golf courses, auto racetracks and a large Water-theme Park. Odessa has recently acquired a minor league hockey team, the Odessa Jackelopes.