income news

This affluent Houston neighbor is America's 2nd wealthiest suburb

Only one U.S. suburb is wealthier than West U.

City of West University Place, TX - City Government / Facebook

West University Place has long been considered Houston's richest suburb, and a new study has revealed this affluent enclave has climbed to the top to become the second wealthiest in America.

The report from GoBankingRates, called "America’s Wealthiest Suburbs Today Compared to 10 Years Ago," tracked the average household income across the nation's 50 wealthiest suburbs from 2014 to 2024. Cities had to have at least 5,000 households and be part of a large metro area to qualify. Income data was sourced from the Census Bureau.

In the new report, West University Place moved up one spot to become the second richest American suburb after ranking third for two consecutive years. Its current ranking is also two spots higher than where it ranked in 2016, at No. 4 nationwide.

The findings also confirm that its residents have certainly become richer over time. According to Census Bureau data, West U. households made $294,723 in average income 2014, which has since surged to $439,594 in 2024.

One more Houston neighbor, Bellaire, also appears among the 50 wealthiest American suburbs. Bellaire now ranks 18th, up from No. 23 last year. Bellaire households made $335,492 on average as of 2024, up from $226,295 in 2014.

Of course, calling either city a "suburb" is sort of absurd, as the late Ken Hoffman hilariously argued in a 2024 column. "A little research or even a phone call would have told them that neither West U nor Bellaire is a suburb. Both are fully independent cities that are completely surrounded by Houston on all sides," Hoffman wrote.

Other affluent suburbs in Texas
Dallas-Fort Worth neighbors University Park, Southlake, and Colleyville are also named among the top 50 wealthiest American suburbs for 2026.

University Park maintains its elite status as the sixth wealthiest suburb in America for the third year in a row. Households made $407,253 on average in total annual income in 2024, up from $254,422 in 2014.

Southlake is the country's eighth wealthiest suburb for 2026, up from No. 16 in 2016. Average household income in this bustling city has grown from $232,034 in 2014 to $384,530 as of 2024, for a growth rate of about 66 percent.

Colleyville, meanwhile, has dropped down the list of the wealthiest suburbs over the last 10 years. It currently ranks 46th but previously ranked 28th in 2016. Average household income in this particular DFW city has increased 35 percent, from $205,828 to $277,720 in 2024.

The top 10 wealthiest suburbs in America in 2026 are:

No. 1 – Scarsdale, New York
No. 2 – West University Place, Texas
No. 3 – Rye, New York
No. 4 – Los Altos, California
No. 5 – Paradise Valley, Arizona
No. 6 – University Park, Texas
No. 7 – Alamo, California
No. 8 – Southlake, Texas
No. 9 – McLean, Virginia
No. 10 – Orinda, California

income gobankingrates.com suburbs houston

spacious sandalwood retreat

England-inspired lakeside Houston mansion hits market for $7.75 million

Photo by Aria Media for Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty

This secluded, wooded estate is for sale for $7.75 million.

On the shores of Sandalwood’s largest lake is a stunning wooded estate. 50 Patti Lynn Lane, tucked between Briar Forest Drive and Memorial Drive, offers luxury living in tranquil seclusion. It’s on the market for $7.75 million and listed by Inga Laughlin Smith with Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty.

A rare find, this 9,000-square-foot home offers five bedrooms, five full and four partial bathrooms, exquisite details, and striking craftsmanship. Designed by Rice Residential Design, with interiors by Scene One Interiors and built by Corbel Custom Homes, this home is a remarkable example of how modern living blends with the natural setting.

Echoing an English manor, this home unfolds in its wooded surroundings. Come through the French chateau front doors into a sweeping grand foyer with hardwood floors and a wrought-iron staircase. A study features custom millwork, soaring views, and a club-like feel. The bar’s detailing lends an air of sophistication to this easy gathering space. The climate-controlled wine room has storage for 1,500 bottles. A lovely grand gallery links the wine room and dining room.

The kitchen is at the crossroads of the home, anchored by an oversized island, perfect for casual conversation and quick meals. Professional-grade appliances make it a home cook’s dream, while custom cabinetry and elegant architectural details demonstrate its blend of form and function.

On the main level is the primary suite, with a spa bathroom and a dressing room that mirrors a luxury boutique. Upstairs, a secondary suite has a window seat, custom built-ins, and an en-suite bath. Additional bedrooms are spacious retreats, and the game room has plenty of space to relax and enjoy treetop views. Currently, a secondary bedroom serves as an in-home fitness studio.

The resort-style grounds feature an infinity pool and spa. The back patio has a stone fireplace, outdoor kitchen, dining area, and lounging spot, making it a retreat all of its own. Steps lead down to gorgeously manicured grounds with mature trees and meandering paths to the lake.

This home should prove irresistible to a wealthy family seeking an exceptional blend of modern living with the feel of a private oasis.

Photo by Aria Media for Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty

This secluded, wooded estate is for sale for $7.75 million.

home-for-sale