The Biggest Cities in Texas 📍🗺️ A Guide to the Largest Cities in Texas by Population
If you’re moving to Texas, chances are you’ve already started comparing neighborhoods, job markets, and lifestyle vibes across the state. One of the easiest ways to narrow down your options is by looking at the biggest cities in Texas and the largest cities in Texas by population, especially if you want access to major airports, top hospitals, pro sports, and nonstop dining and entertainment.
The good news is you have a lot to choose from. Texas is home to more than 1,200 incorporated cities (plus countless smaller communities), so whether you’re drawn to major metros or quieter suburbs, there’s truly a wide range of main cities in Texas and hidden gems across TX.
In this guide, we break down the most populous cities in the state using new data from the US Census (including their latest population division stats), and we include key demographics for each city to help you make the best decision. Whether you’re planning your Texas change of address or just exploring what different regions offer, this list will help you see where Texans are actually living right now using the most reliable data available.
Texas Demographics
Before diving into the biggest cities in Texas, it helps to zoom out and look at the state as a whole. Texas is currently the second most populous state in the U.S. (behind California), and it continues to grow fast thanks to job opportunities, no state income tax, and a wide range of places to live, from major metros to smaller towns.
Whether you’re comparing the biggest cities in Texas or researching the important cities in Texas for your move, these statewide demographics provide helpful context.
- Population: 30.50 million
- Median age: 35.9
- Median household income: $75,780
- Median home price: $337,900
- Area: 261,270 square miles
- Density: 116.8 people per square mile
- Texas crime rate: 2,732 crimes per 100,000 people
The Largest Cities in Texas
Ready to discover the biggest cities in Texas? These are the largest Texas cities by population.
#1. Houston
As the largest city in the state of Texas, Houston is a powerhouse of culture and diversity, and it consistently tops lists of the biggest cities in Texas. It’s best known for NASA’s Space Center Houston, a legendary food scene (especially Tex-Mex and global cuisine), and major sports teams like the Astros and Rockets. You can spend weekends exploring the Museum District, strolling Buffalo Bayou Park, or catching live performances in the Theater District. No wonder it’s one of the biggest cities in Texas.
- Houston population: 2.3 million
- Houston area: 640.6 square miles
- Houston median age: 34.3
- Houston median household income: $62,894
- Houston median home price: $350,000
- Houston crime rate: 5,723 crimes per 100,000 people (109.5% higher than Texas average)
- Houston map
#2. San Antonio
San Antonio is one of the biggest cities in Texas and a top choice for anyone comparing the populations of Texas cities. The River Walk is the city’s signature attraction, lined with restaurants, patios, and boat tours, and you can’t miss The Alamo for a true Texas history moment. Plus, with a growing business scene and a median home price of just $260,000,it’s especially appealing for Texas first time homebuyers and still stands out among the biggest cities in Texas.
- San Antonio population: 1.4 million
- San Antonio area: 498.9 square miles
- San Antonio median age: 34.6
- San Antonio median household income: $62,917
- San Antonio median home price: $260,000
- San Antonio crime rate: 5,951 crimes per 100,000 people (117.8% higher than Texas average)
- San Antonio map
#3. Dallas
Dallas is one of the biggest cities in Texas, with a fast-paced vibe and modern city energy. It’s known for its booming arts scene, major-league sports, and standout shopping and dining. Spend a day exploring the Dallas Arts District, visit the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, or catch a Cowboys game for the full experience. If you’re comparing the largest cities in Texas, Dallas belongs at the top of any Texas largest cities table.
- Dallas population: 1.3 million
- Dallas area: 339.7 square miles
- Dallas median age: 33.5
- Dallas median household income: $70,121
- Dallas median home price: $458,000
- Dallas crime rate: 4,591 crimes per 100,000 people (68.0% higher than Texas average)
- Dallas map
#4. Austin
If you’re joining the wave of people heading to Austin, you’ll quickly see why it’s one of the biggest cities in Texas for culture, creativity, and nonstop entertainment.
For those relocating from outside the area, choosing an Austin-based long-distance moving company can make it easier to coordinate everything from transportation to delivery once you arrive.
The city is famous for live music, food trucks, and outdoor fun like paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake or hiking at Barton Creek Greenbelt. April is an especially exciting time to visit, with spring events like the ABC Kite Fest and the Austin Blues Festival bringing the city to life. It’s easy to see why Austin remains one of the biggest cities in Texas.
- Austin population: 979,700
- Austin area: 326.4 square miles
- Austin median age: 34.9
- Austin median household income: $91,501
- Austin median home price: $540,000
- Austin crime rate: 4,130 crimes per 100,000 people (51.2% higher than Texas average)
- Austin map
#5. Fort Worth
Fort Worth is where Texas history meets modern city living, and it proudly earns its spot among the biggest cities in Texas. It’s best known for its cowboy culture and Western heritage, especially in the Fort Worth Stockyards, where you can catch a real cattle drive and visit classic honky-tonks. For a more polished side of the city, explore Sundance Square, the Kimbell Art Museum, or the Fort Worth Botanic Garden.
- Fort Worth population: 976,932
- Fort Worth area: 350.3 square miles
- Fort Worth median age: 33.7
- Fort Worth median household income: $77,082
- Fort Worth median home price: $321,000
- Fort Worth crime rate: 3,242 crimes per 100,000 people (18.7% higher than Texas average)
- Fort Worth map
#6. El Paso
El Paso has a totally different vibe than many of the largest cities in Texas, with a sunny desert setting and some of the best Mexican food in the state. Locals love spending time outdoors at Franklin Mountains State Park, exploring scenic drives like Transmountain Road, and checking out downtown murals and festivals. It’s also one of the more affordable options among the biggest cities in Texas, with a median home price around $257,000 and a crime rate 38.1% lower than the Texas average.
- El Paso population: 678,945
- El Paso area: 258.8 square miles
- El Paso median age: 35.3
- El Paso median household income: $57,317
- El Paso median home price: $257,000
- El Paso crime rate: 1,692 crimes per 100,000 people (38.1% lower than Texas average)
- El Paso map
#7. Arlington
Arlington is one of the biggest cities in Texas for entertainment, especially if you love sports and theme parks. This city sits right between Dallas and Fort Worth, making it a convenient place to live with easy access to the entire DFW area. It’s home to AT&T Stadium (Dallas Cowboys), Globe Life Field (Texas Rangers), and Six Flags Over Texas, so weekends can stay packed without needing a long drive. No surprise it’s one of the biggest cities in Texas.
- Arlington population: 398,423
- Arlington area: 95.8 square miles
- Arlington median age: 34.5
- Arlington median household income: $69,208
- Arlington median home price: $340,000
- Arlington crime rate: 3,105 crimes per 100,000 people (13.7% higher than Texas average)
- Arlington map
#8. Corpus Christi
Corpus Christi is a laid-back coastal city that brings beach-town energy to the list of the biggest cities in Texas. It’s best known for its Gulf views, warm weather, and outdoor lifestyle, with locals spending weekends at North Beach, Padre Island National Seashore, and Mustang Island State Park. The Texas State Aquarium and the USS Lexington Museum on the Bay are must-dos for families, while the marina scene makes it a great spot for boating and waterfront dining.
- Corpus Christi population: 317,383
- Corpus Christi area: 162.3
- Corpus Christi median age: 36.3
- Corpus Christi median household income: $66,325
- Corpus Christi median home price: $262,000
- Corpus Christi crime rate: 3,912 crimes per 100,000 people (43.2% higher than Texas average)
- Corpus Christi map
#9. Plano
Plano is a polished North Texas city known for its strong schools, clean neighborhoods, and a high quality of life, making it stand out among the biggest cities in Texas. It’s also one of the highest-income cities in the state, with a median household income of $108,594, helped by a major corporate presence in the area. Many residents work for big employers like Toyota Motor North America, JPMorgan Chase, and Liberty Mutual. For fun, check out Legacy West, Arbor Hills Nature Preserve, and downtown Plano’s shops and restaurants.
- Plano population: 288,228
- Plano area: 71.7 square miles
- Plano median age: 40.4
- Plano median household income: $108,594
- Plano median home price: $520,000
- Plano crime rate: 2,054 crimes per 100,000 people (24.8% lower than Texas average)
- Plano map
#10. Lubbock
Lubbock brings a true West Texas vibe, with wide-open skies, friendly locals, and a strong college-town energy thanks to Texas Tech University. If you’re exploring cities in Texas by population, Lubbock is one of the biggest cities in Texas that offers a more affordable, down-to-earth lifestyle than the major metros. It’s known for live music at Buddy Holly Center and local wineries. For many people, it’s one of the biggest cities in Texas that still feels like home.
- Lubbock population: 266,878
- Lubbock area: 142 square miles
- Lubbock median age: 30.6
- Lubbock median household income: $54,451
- Lubbock median home price: $235,995
- Lubbock crime rate: 5,198 crimes per 100,000 people (90.3% higher than Texas average)
- Lubbock map
Map of the Biggest Cities in Texas
Check out this map of the biggest cities in Texas.
Biggest Cities in Texas FAQs
What Are the Biggest Cities in Texas by Population?
The biggest cities in Texas by population include Houston, San Antonio, Dallas, Austin, and Fort Worth. These large metro areas continue to attract new residents thanks to job growth, entertainment, and diverse neighborhoods. The rankings are based on populations of Texas cities reported by the US Census.
What Is the Biggest City in Texas?
Houston is the biggest city in Texas, with a population of about 2.3 million residents. It’s known for NASA, major sports teams, and one of the most diverse food scenes in the U.S. Among the biggest cities in Texas, Houston also covers one of the largest land areas.
Which Biggest Cities in Texas Are the Most Affordable to Live In?
When comparing the biggest cities in Texas, El Paso, San Antonio, and Fort Worth often stand out as more affordable options, especially for homebuyers. Median home prices are typically lower than in Austin and Dallas.
Why Do the Biggest Cities in Texas Keep Growing?
The biggest cities in Texas keep growing because of strong job markets, business-friendly policies, and no state income tax. Many newcomers relocate for better career opportunities, warmer weather, and access to amenities like airports and healthcare.
Which One of Texas’ Biggest Cities Is Right for You?
With so many incredible options, choosing between the biggest cities in Texas really comes down to your lifestyle goals. Want big-city energy, diversity, and nonstop culture? Houston may be your match. Looking for affordability and history? San Antonio and El Paso are strong picks. Prefer fast growth, business opportunities, and a modern vibe? Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin, and Plano each bring something unique to the table.
No matter which of the largest cities in Texas you choose, Texas offers plenty of opportunities and an exciting place to call home. If you’re planning a relocation and need reliable Texas movers, get in touch with Unicorn Moving & Storage for a free quote and professional help getting settled. Give us a call today at (512) 339-9922.