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This affluent Houston enclave is the richest small town in Texas

Houston neighbor Bellaire is the richest town in Texas.

Facebook / City of Bellaire, Texas

Affluent Houston neighbor Bellaire is cashing in as the richest small town in Texas for 2025, according to new study from GoBankingRates.

The report, "The Richest Small Town in Every State," used data from the U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey to determine the 50 richest small towns in America based on their median household income.

Of course, Houstonians realize that describing Bellaire as a "small town" is a bit of misnomer. Located less than 10 miles from downtown and fully surrounded by the City of Houston, Bellaire is a wealthy enclave that boasts a population of just over 17,000 residents. These affluent citizens earn a median $236,311 in income every year, which GoBankingRates says is the 11th highest household median income out of all 50 cities included in the report.

The average home in this city is worth over $1.12 million, but Bellaire's lavish residential reputation often attracts properties with multi-million-dollar price tags.

Bellaire also earned a shining 81 livability score for its top quality schools, health and safety, commute times, and more. The livability index, provided by Toronto, Canada-based data analytics and real estate platform AreaVibes, said Bellaire has "an abundance of exceptional local amenities."

"Among these are conveniently located grocery stores, charming coffee shops, diverse dining options and plenty of spacious parks," AreaVibes said. "These local amenities contribute significantly to its overall appeal, ensuring that [residents'] daily needs are met and offering ample opportunities for leisure and recreation."

Many popular Houston restaurants are setting their sights on this wealthy enclave. Detroit-style pizzamakers Gold Tooth Tony’s opened its second pizza joint in Bellaire in 2024. And most recently, Michelin-recognized Tex-Mex restaurant Candente announced it would open a second location just down the street from Gold Tooth Tony's at 5101 Bellaire Blvd.

Earlier in 2025, GoBankingRates ranked Bellaire as the No. 23 wealthiest suburb in America, and it's no stranger to being named on similar lists comparing the richest American cities.

suburbs houston bellaire affluent households

inner loop sanctuary

Stunning 2-house Heights compound hits market for $3.6 million

Photo by TK Images for Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

Explore the gracious living and exceptional spaces of 216 E. 26th St.

A property touted as the largest residential tract ever offered in the Heights is on the market. 216 E. 26th St. is a spacious compound with luxe amenities set across eight contiguous lots. Protected by four motorized gates and sprawling over 24,000 square feet, this must-be-seen-to-be-believed property is on the market for $3.6 million and represented by Leann Salmons with Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty.

This warm, inviting home offers luxury living and exquisite details. Prospective owners will find antique wood floors, stained-glass accent windows, and elegant millwork throughout. The entryway has a bay window, leaded glass door, and a grand staircase. A formal living room features views of the outdoors and high ceilings that flood the room with natural light.

An open floor plan connects the kitchen and additional living room, providing plenty of space for entertaining and gathering. A game room upstairs offers endless possibilities. The upstairs primary bedroom has treetop views and a renovated, spa-like bathroom entered via French doors. Like the home’s four other bedrooms, it has its own private porch.

Outside, across the expanse of the resort-like grounds, sits 2,217-square-foot pool house. With two bedrooms and four baths, including two exterior country-club-style full baths, it’s perfect for guests. It also has an arched window, elevator, full kitchen, and billiard/game spaces. A tiki-style grill/bar, putting green, and lighted sport court with pickleball potential complete the outdoor spaces.

Above the garage is an additional one bedroom, one bathroom apartment. On-site guest parking, a circle drive, and a covered pavilion for five cars complete the estate.

This city oasis offers privacy and elegance. Even though it’s close to all that Houston has to offer, its spaciousness makes it a restful retreat.

Photo by TK Images for Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

Explore the gracious living and exceptional spaces of 216 E. 26th St.

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