Texas is a state known for its vastness and diversity, from the sprawling metropolis of Houston to the desert landscapes of West Texas. One aspect that often captures people’s attention is the wealth enjoyed by some cities in this great state.
Attractive job opportunities and an abundance of natural resources have made Texas one of the wealthiest states in America. As we delve into this topic, it is important to emphasize that our research has been extensive.
We understand that when it comes to identifying wealthy cities, there are several factors to consider, such as per capita income, median household income, cost of living index, and unemployment rates among others.
Our findings reveal some surprising results with some cities consistently ranking higher than others in terms of wealth.
Our goal here is not only to list these cities but also to explore what makes them so prosperous and why they continue to thrive year after year.
15 Richest Cities In Texas
Here are the 10 affluent places in Texas:
15. Bellaire
Bellaire, located within the Houston metropolitan area, is known for its affluence and upscale residential neighborhoods. According to data from US Census Bureau, Bellaire boasts a median household income of $211,202 – more than triple the national average.
Given its high income levels, it’s no surprise that home prices are also quite steep; Zillow reports that the median home value in Bellaire is currently around $977,307.
Despite its prosperity, crime rates remain relatively low in this city; NeighborhoodScout reveals a total crime rate of 6.95 per 1,000 residents as of 2023.
The population stands at approximately 17,202 people per U.S Census Bureau, while the unemployment rate remains below the national average at just 4.00% as per data from YCharts Economic Data.
14. League City
League City, located in the Greater Houston metropolitan area, is considered one of Texas’s richest cities. According to the US Census Bureau, the median household income here stands at $112,273, which is higher than the national average of $70,784.
Home prices in League City are also relatively high; Zillow reports a median home value of $359,708. In terms of population, the city has grown significantly over recent years.
The United States Census Bureau estimates that the population reached 114,392 residents in 2020. Despite this growth and economic prosperity—unemployment and poverty rates remain low compared to state averages.
The unemployment rate is estimated at around 3% as per AreaVibes data for 2022 while the poverty rate stands at approximately 4%.
13. Houston
Houston is the largest city in Texas and the fourth-largest in the United States boasting a strong economy with a diverse range of industries.
According to the US Census Bureau report, Houston’s median household income is $56,019 (2017-2021), slightly lower than the national average of $70,784.
The city’s population stands at 2.3 million residents and experienced an unemployment rate of 4.5%. The poverty rate reached 20.6%, above the national average of 12.3%.
Regarding housing prices, Zillow reports that Houston has a median home value of around $262,337.
Unfortunately, Houston faces significant challenges concerning its crime rates: Neighborhood Scout reveals that its crime index score is only 2 out of 100 (100 being the safest).
12. Keller
According to US Census Bureau, the median household income in Keller is $149,822, which ranks significantly higher than the national average. The population of this thriving city stood at approximately 45,397 residents as of 2021.
When it comes to housing prices, Zillow states that the median home value in Keller is around $616,508 —an indicator of its affluent status within Texas communities.
In terms of safety and security, Neighborhood Scout ranks Keller with a crime index score of 68 out of 100 (100 being the safest), making it a relatively safe place to live compared to other cities within the state.
11. Prosper
Prosper, a suburban town located in Collin and Denton Counties is considered one of the wealthiest cities in Texas. According to US Census Bureau, Prosper has a median household income of $159,164, which is significantly higher than the national median income.
The city’s home values can be quite high as well; Neighborhoods.com indicates that the average listing price for homes in Prosper is about $540,000. With a population of 25,584 people per Open Data Network, this affluent community enjoys low crime rates and high-quality schools.
The unemployment rate here stands at 5.6% while the poverty rate remains at a mere 1.3%, showcasing Prosper’s strong financial standing and desirability among families and professionals seeking upscale living experiences.
10. Trophy Club
Trophy Club is another wealthy city in Texas. The population of Trophy Club stands at approximately 13,745 residents, offering a tight-knit community atmosphere.
Housing plays a significant role in the city’s affluence. The median home value in Trophy Club is around $669,287 according to Zillow data.
A reason behind these high property values is the superb quality of life offered by this city thanks to its well-maintained parks, trails, and recreation facilities.
The median household income for Trophy Club residents was recorded at $170,679 in 2019 as per Census Bureau, indicating strong economic standing within the community.
In terms of safety, Trophy Club boasts a low crime rate compared to national averages; the crime index rating for this area is 79 out of 100 based on NeighborhoodScout’s analysis of FBI crime data from 2020.
9. Hunters Creek Village
Hunters Creek Village, situated in Harris County, is among the wealthiest cities in Texas. This suburban city boasts a small community feels with well-organized neighborhoods and access to several amenities.
With a population of approximately 4,314 residents as of 2021 per DataCommons.org, it offers excellent education systems through its reputable schools.
When it comes to real estate, Hunters Creek Village features some of the most expensive homes in Texas. The median home value is $2.57 million according to Redfin data.
Coupled with high property values, the median household income stands at $250,001 as per Data USA, reflecting affluence within this community.
One factor that attracts many families to Hunters Creek Village is its low crime rate compared to national averages. According to NeighborhoodScout’s analysis of FBI crime data from 2020, it has a crime index rating of 82 out of 100 (where higher ratings mean less crime).
8. University Park
Nestled in the heart of Dallas County, University Park stands as one of the wealthiest cities in Texas. Known for its affluence and charm, this city is home to Southern Methodist University (SMU) and exhibits a strong sense of community.
According to Data USA, University Park has an impressive median household income of $247,716, showcasing its residents’ financial prosperity.
The average home value in the city is around $1.9 million as per Zillow data. Not just economically thriving, but with a population size of around 24,849 people (2021 data), the city also boasts low crime rates.
This makes it a desirable location for families and professionals alike seeking safety combined with upscale living standards and top-tier educational opportunities offered at SMU right within reach in their backyard.
7. Flower Mound
Located in Denton County, Flower Mound is known for its picturesque landscapes and family-friendly atmosphere, making it one of the richest cities in Texas.
With a median household income of $145,153 as reported by the US Census Bureau, the residents of this charming town enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. Home prices reflect this prosperity as well, with Zillow revealing an average home value of around $593,436.
The population is estimated to be around 79,102 people according to World Population Review data as of 2023. The low crime rate and excellent public schools further enhance Flower Mound’s appeal as an ideal place to raise families or retire in peace.
6. Fair Oaks Ranch
Fair Oaks Ranch, situated in Bexar County, stands as one of the affluent areas in Texas. Its captivating beauty and affluence make it an attractive destination for families and professionals seeking an upscale lifestyle.
DataUSA reports a remarkable median household income of $129,154 in Fair Oaks Ranch, confirming its status as an affluent city. Home prices also reflect this wealth, with Zillow data indicating that the average home value is approximately $667,902.
The city’s population size is just over 11,769 people according to World Population Review estimates for 2023. In addition to financial prosperity and picturesque landscapes, Fair Oaks Ranch boasts low crime rates—making it a safe and secure place to live.
This thriving community offers its residents access to top-notch schools within the highly-rated Boerne Independent School District.
5. Alamo Heights
Alamo Heights, an affluent city located in Bexar County and surrounded by San Antonio, is one of the wealthiest cities in Texas. This charming city exhibits a rich architectural heritage and lush tree-lined streets that captivate both residents and visitors alike.
With the U.S. Census Bureau reporting a median household income of $152,188 for Alamo Heights, it’s evident that the community enjoys financial prosperity.
The real estate market reflects this affluence as well – according to Zillow’s 2023 data, the average home value stands at approximately $688,604. The population of Alamo Heights is estimated to be around 7,360 people based on Texas Demographics’ 2023 figures.
Alongside its economic success, the city also boasts low crime rates and high-quality public schools within the esteemed Alamo Heights Independent School District.
4. West University Place
West University Place, affectionately known as “West U,” is an affluent city in Harris County, near the bustling heart of Houston. As one of the richest places in Texas, it offers residents a safe and upscale environment to call home.
The median household income stands at a staggering $250,001 according to U.S. Census Bureau’s report, illustrating the city’s financial prosperity.
Zillow data reveals that home values mirror this wealth; with an average of approximately $1.4 million per property. West University Place has a population size close to 14,326 people as estimated by World Population Review.
In addition to its affluence, the city boasts low crime rates and exemplary schools within the highly acclaimed Houston Independent School District.
Blending tranquility with convenience due to its proximity to Houston’s bustling downtown area, West University Place provides residents with opulent living spaces while retaining easy access to metropolitan amenities.
3. Terrell Hills
A picturesque gem amidst San Antonio’s urban landscape, Terrell Hills ranks among the wealthiest cities in Texas. This cozy yet affluent community is known for its elegant homes and lush greenery that define its visual appeal.
Financial prosperity is evident in Terrell Hills, with Data USA revealing a median household income of $183,832. Home values in this desirable location also mirror its wealth – Zillow’s data reports an average home value of around $829,401.
According to World Population Review estimates for 2023, the population size hovers approximately at 5,035 individuals.
Apart from its economic strength and aesthetic beauty, Terrell Hills takes pride in low crime rates and access to exemplary schools within the esteemed Alamo Heights Independent School District.
2. Highland Park
Situated in the heart of Dallas County, Highland Park enjoys a prestigious reputation as one of the wealthiest cities in Texas. Known for its tree-lined streets, opulent homes, and upscale shopping centers like Highland Park Village, this community exudes luxury living.
U.S. Census Bureau reports that Highland Park has an impressive median household income of $234,427, affording its residents a comfortable lifestyle.
Reflecting this prosperity, Neighborhoods.com data shows that the average home value in Highland Park is approximately $1.9 million. The population size stands at around 8,747 people according to estimates from Data Commons.
Along with its affluence and elegance, Highland Park boasts low crime rates and exceptional schools within the reputable Highland Park Independent School District.
1. Southlake
Southlake, a thriving city located in Tarrant County, is renowned for its affluence and ranks as the wealthiest city in Texas. This prosperous community is characterized by its elegant homes, upscale shopping centers, and top-notch dining options that cater to its discerning residents.
The median household income of Southlake stands at an impressive $239,833 according to Census Bureau’s report. The luxurious real estate market aligns with the city’s wealth; 2023 Realtor data indicates that the average home value in Southlake is approximately $1.7 million.
With a population size of around 30,754 people based on Point2Home’s estimates for 2023, this affluent city maintains low crime rates while providing access to exemplary schools within the Carroll Independent School District.