HOUSTON — A new nationwide study shows Houston has become slightly happier compared with last year, though it still ranks among the lower half of U.S. cities in overall happiness.
According to a report by WalletHub, Houston placed 128th out of 182 of the most populous U.S. cities in its 2026 ranking of the happiest cities in America. The city improved from 151st place last year.
The study evaluated cities using 29 metrics based on positive-psychology research across three major categories: emotional and physical well-being, income and employment, and community and environment.
Houston’s rankings in those categories were:
- No. 107 – Emotional and physical well-being
- No. 148 – Income and employment
- No. 158 – Community and environment
Nationally, Fremont once again topped the list as the happiest city in the country, followed by Bismarck and Scottsdale.
WalletHub noted that happiness is influenced by several factors beyond income, including mental health, physical well-being, strong relationships, and job satisfaction. The report cited research suggesting that earning more than $75,000 a year does not necessarily increase happiness.
Texas cities in the rankings
Among Texas communities, Plano ranked highest at No. 16 nationwide, making it the happiest city in the state. Austin was the only other Texas city to place in the top 50, ranking No. 39.
Other Texas cities ranked as follows:
- Irving – No. 70
- Garland – No. 92
- Grand Prairie – No. 106
- Dallas – No. 111
- Fort Worth – No. 113
- Arlington – No. 119
- Lubbock – No. 135
- El Paso – No. 137
- Laredo – No. 140
- Amarillo – No. 143
- Brownsville – No. 150
- San Antonio – No. 154
- Corpus Christi – No. 155
Despite its relatively low ranking, Houston continues to attract new residents and boasts a strong job market, major cultural attractions, and institutions such as Johnson Space Center, which contribute to the city’s overall quality of life.