The Dallas suburb of Garland boasts a hearty population of almost a quarter of a million people. Although many of the city's residents work in the Dallas Metro area, local food manufacturing and distribution plays a significant part of Garland's economy as do oilfield equipment and electronics. Garland, like most Texas towns, makes it easy to do business. Minimal local licensing and permitting paves the way for entrepreneurs to establish themselves quickly and cheaply. Most business regulation is done by the state and again, is kept minimal.