PCE Staff
Naskila Casino’s Economic Impact
Naskila Casino is significantly contributing to the economy and employment in Polk County and East Texas, based on a recent report by the Texas Forest Country Partnership.
The TXP economic analysis firm reported that Naskila Casino, an electronic bingo facility operated by the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas near Livingston, has an annual economic impact of $251.7 million. This is an increase from $212 million reported in a similar study in 2023.
Celebrating its 10th anniversary, Naskila Casino is the second-largest employer in Polk County, providing over 1,000 permanent jobs that collectively offer $34.5 million in annual wages. The casino contributes to more than 15% of the private sector wages in the region, according to the latest findings.
As Tanya Dora, Executive Director of the Texas Forest Country Partnership, remarked, “Naskila Casino creates jobs, attracts visitors, and generates significant revenue for our region. We appreciate its success and the partnership with the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas.”
This is the fourth report commissioned by the Texas Forest Country Partnership assessing Naskila Casino’s economic effects, highlighting a steady rise in revenue; it was $140 million in 2018.
Key Findings from the 2024 Report
- Naskila employs about 431 individuals, predominantly residents of Polk County, with average compensation nearing $50,000 when benefits are included.
- Approximately 570 additional jobs in the local area rely on Naskila Casino’s operations.
- The casino spends tens of millions on goods and services annually, with over $8 million going to local vendors in Polk County.
Notably, over 94% of Naskila’s customers come from outside Polk County, marking it as a crucial economic driver for the region.
Since opening in 2016 with 365 electronic bingo machines, Naskila has expanded to feature over 950 machines, a restaurant, café, and retail spaces. Additionally, the tribe’s renovated Ischoopa Travel Center reopened in December 2024 with 81 gaming machines.
The revenue generated by Naskila Casino supports various community initiatives on the reservation, funding scholarships, housing, a health clinic, daycare, and retail shops.
“We take pride in Naskila Casino’s growth and its benefits to our Deep East Texas neighbors,” shared Tribal Council Chairwoman Cecilia Flores, acknowledging the casino’s success over the past decade.
About the Texas Forest Country Partnership
The Texas Forest Country Partnership (TFCP), previously known as the Pineywoods Economic Partnership, has been promoting economic development since 1960. Its goal is to enhance the region’s prosperity through marketing, business development, and advocacy.
Situated on approximately 10,200 acres near Livingston, the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas holds the oldest reservation in the state. Governed by an elected council and led by a principal chief, the tribe provides comprehensive health and public services to its members, roughly half of whom reside on the reservation.
