Matamoros still serves as a transfer center for north and southbound trade, and reflects a population in transition to families and better paying jobs in San Antonio and South Texas. New migration severely strains the already inadequate availability of housing in Matamoros.

Currently there are 46,536 people employed in 111 Matamoros maquilas, a community which has a large share of heavier manufacturing of auto parts and components.

Matamoros averages 8% - 11%, among the highest on the Border.

Population and demographic projections still point to above average growth as expected to accompany increased trade, border migration and higher birth rates.

The greatest number of maquilas that have located in the Matamoros area are still assembly and heavier manufacturing for the automotive industry. A dozen electronics manufacturers provide for a growing skill level of technicians.

A number of training and technical schools exist in Matamoros, as does training support from the university there for maquilas who request it.

Turnover is less than 2% per month, one of the lowest in Mexico. All new labor contracts have 48-hour work week.