Major Cities in Texas by Population [2025]
Texas, the Lone Star State, is perhaps best known for doing things in a "big" way. From big hats to big business to giant metropolitan areas, Texas stands out on every level. Home to iconic cities like Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio, there's a good chance you can find the perfect city to call home.
In this blog post, we'll take a deep dive into the top 10 cities in Texas by population, exploring their distinctive characteristics, economic opportunities, and quality of life. From the bustling metropolis of Houston to the historic charm of San Antonio, each city offers something special for residents and visitors alike.
All of the rental data included here comes from our internal database of rent estimates, which is available for download. Population insights comes directly from the U.S. Census website.
Major Cities in Texas
Cities in Texas by Population
| Location | Population |
|---|---|
| Houston | 2,314,157 |
| San Antonio | 1,495,295 |
| Dallas | 1,302,868 |
| Austin | 979,882 |
| Fort Worth | 978,468 |
| El Paso | 678,958 |
| Arlington | 398,431 |
| Corpus Christi | 316,595 |
| Plano | 290,190 |
| Lubbock | 266,878 |
10 Major Cities in Texas for Renters
1. Houston
Houston, with well over two million residents, is Texas largest city and also best known for its thriving economy and vibrant music scene. Its low cost of living compared to other major cities in the United States attracts newcomers seeking affordable housing and a high quality of life.
Houston has experienced significant population growth over the past decade, driven by a strong job market in industries such as energy, healthcare, and technology. Houston's economy and job opportunities make it a popular destination for professionals around the world.
One of Houston's most notable features is its world-class museums and cultural institutions. The Museum District is home to renowned attractions like the Museum of Fine Arts, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, and the Children's Museum Houston. It also boasts a world-class music scene, with venues hosting a wide range of genres from country to hip-hop.
Houston's neighborhoods offer a variety of lifestyles, from the historic charm of Montrose to the trendy shops and restaurants of River Oaks. The city's proximity to the Gulf Coast provides opportunities for outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and beachgoing.
- Population: 2,314,157
- Median 2-Bedroom Rent: $1,368
- Current Apartment Availability: 739
- Walk Score: 47
- Transit Score: 36
- Bike Score: 49
2. San Antonio
San Antonio, the second-largest city in Texas, is a captivating blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. The historic center, known as the Alamo Mission, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist attraction. San Antonio also offers numerous museums, theaters, and music venues.
San Antonio's economy is driven primarily by healthcare, tourism, and manufacturing. The combination of a low cost of living and a strong job market has attracted a growing population in recent years. San Antonio's neighborhoods offer a diverse range of options, from the historic charm of the King William District to the trendy shops and restaurants of the Pearl. San Antonio's proximity to the Texas Hill Country provides opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and wine tasting.
- Population: 1,495,295
- Median 2-Bedroom Rent: $1,283
- Current Apartment Availability: 1,917
- Walk Score: 37
- Transit Score: 31
- Bike Score: 45
3. Dallas
Dallas is another giant Texas metropolis known for its thriving business district, diverse culture, and world-class entertainment. Like Houston and Austin, Dallas has experienced significant population growth over the past decade, driven by a strong economy in industries such as finance, technology, and healthcare. Standout attractions include the renowned Dallas Museum of Art and the Perot Museum of Nature & Science to the vibrant live music scene in Deep Ellum. As home to the iconic Dallas Cowboys, you'll plenty of sports fans as well.
Dallas' neighborhoods offer a wide range of options, from the historic charm of Oak Cliff to the trendy shops and restaurants of Highland Park. The city's proximity to the Texas Hill Country provides opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and wine tasting.
- Population: 1,302,868
- Median 2-Bedroom Rent: $1,475
- Current Apartment Availability: 539
- Walk Score: 46
- Transit Score: 39
- Bike Score: 49
4. Austin
Austin, the capital of Texas, is renowned for its live music scene, eclectic culture, and thriving tech industry. Its affordable cost of living compared to other major cities in the United States attracts newcomers seeking a laid-back lifestyle and ample job opportunities. With just under a million people, but tons of available apartments, you won't feel like you're missing out on any rental opportunities compared to the top three cities.
The downtown area is home to numerous tech startups and corporate headquarters. But it's better known as the "Live Music Capital of the World" for its numerous venues hosting a variety of genres from country to rock to indie. The city also offers a diverse cultural scene, with a wide variety of museums, theaters, and art galleries.
Austin's neighborhoods offer a variety of lifestyles, from the historic charm of the Sixth Street District to the trendy shops and restaurants of South Congress. The city's proximity to the Texas Hill Country provides opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and wine tasting.
- Population: 979,882
- Median 2-Bedroom Rent: $1,574
- Current Apartment Availability: 1,562
- Walk Score: 42
- Transit Score: 35
- Bike Score: 54
5. Fort Worth
If you're looking for the quintessential Western experience, consider Fort Worth. Its rich history in cowboy culture attracts newcomers looking for that quintessential Texan lifestyle. Fort Worth residents enjoy a strong economy in industries such as aviation, healthcare, and logistics. The Stockyards District is a popular tourist destination, featuring cowboy rodeos, live music, and Western-themed shops and restaurants.
Fort Worth's neighborhoods offer a variety of lifestyles, from the historic charm of the Near Southside to the trendy shops and restaurants of West 7th. Its proximity to the Texas Hill Country provides opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and wine tasting.
- Population: 978,468
- Median 2-Bedroom Rent: $1,357
- Current Apartment Availability: 215
- Walk Score: 35
- Transit Score: 22
- Bike Score: 39
6. El Paso
El Paso, a city located on the border with Mexico, stands out for its unique location, stunning mountain views, and affordable cost of living. El Paso's downtown area is notable for its stunning Spanish colonial architecture, museums, and cultural attractions. Industries include manufacturing, healthcare, and retail.
It's neighborhoods and surroundings offer a variety of lifestyles, from the historic charm of the Segundo Barrio to the trendy shops and restaurants of the Mesa. Proximity to the Franklin Mountains provides opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and mountain biking.
- Population: 678,958
- Median 2-Bedroom Rent: $1,093
- Current Apartment Availability: 664
- Walk Score: 40
- Transit Score: 28
- Bike Score: 42
7. Arlington
Arlington, close to Dallas, is a sports-lovers haven. Arlington is home to the AT&T Stadium, the home field of the Dallas Cowboys, and the Globe Life Field, the home field of the Texas Rangers. The city also hosts a variety of other sporting events and festivals throughout the year.
Explore Arlington and you'll find a treasure trove of exciting activities from the historic charm of the Arlington Heights Historic District to the trendy shops and restaurants of the Entertainment District. Its proximity to the Texas Hill Country provides opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and wine tasting.
- Population: 398,431
- Median 2-Bedroom Rent: $1,364
- Current Apartment Availability: 139
- Walk Score: 38
- Transit Score: 0
- Bike Score: 40
8. Corpus Christi
Corpus Christi, a city located on the Gulf Coast of Texas, is known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and affordable cost of living. Its stunning coastal scenery, seafood cuisine, and growing economy attract newcomers seeking a laid-back lifestyle and ample job opportunities.
The city's economy is driven by industries such as tourism, fishing, and manufacturing. The city's low cost of living, combined with a strong job market, has attracted a growing population in recent years.
Corpus Christi's neighborhoods offer a variety of lifestyles, from the historic charm of the Downtown District to the trendy shops and restaurants of the Marina District. The city's proximity to the Gulf Coast provides opportunities for outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and beachgoing.
- Population: 316,595
- Median 2-Bedroom Rent: $1,262
- Current Apartment Availability: 408
- Walk Score: 40
- Transit Score: 27
- Bike Score: 42
9. Plano
Plano, a suburb of Dallas, is one of the best places to live near Dallas thanks to its excellent schools and safe neighborhoods. Its planned community layout, diverse population, and growing economy are esspecially attractive to newcomers. Plano's industries include technology, finance, and healthcare. If you stroll downtown, you'll find a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Plano's neighborhoods offer a variety of lifestyles, from the historic charm of the Old Plano Historic District to the trendy shops and restaurants of Legacy Village. The city's proximity to Dallas and Fort Worth provides opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and wine tasting.
- Population: 290,190
- Median 2-Bedroom Rent: $1,802
- Current Apartment Availability: 124
- Walk Score: 41
- Transit Score: 15
- Bike Score: 52
10. Lubbock
Lubbock, a city located in the heart of West Texas, is known for its friendly atmosphere, cowboy culture, and beautiful sunsets. Its perfect for renters seeking a laid-back and affordable lifestyle, particularly if you work in industries such as agriculture, healthcare, and education.
Looking to see what Lubbock has to offer? Start with the historic charm of the Depot District, then move on to the trendy shops and restaurants of the Medical District. Its close proximity to the Texas Hill Country provides opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and wine tasting.
- Population: 266,878
- Average 2-Bedroom Rent: $953
- Current Apartment Availability: 604
- Walk Score: 39
- Transit Score: 21
- Bike Score: 43
Making the Move to Texas?
So, which Texas city is the perfect fit for you? Whether you're seeking a bustling metropolis, a historic city, or a coastal paradise, Texas has something to offer everyone. To learn more about the top 10 cities in Texas and explore available apartments, click on the links for any of the cities above to view listings in each area. Or sign up with our quiz to select your location. Happy apartment hunting!
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