Pearland, a fast-growing suburb of Houston, is making headlines after being named one of the best places to live in the United States. According to the U.S. News & World Report 2025–2026 Best Places to Live rankings, Pearland secured the No. 3 spot nationwide and was declared the No. 1 Best Place to Live in Texas.
It also ranked No. 2 among medium-sized cities across the country.
Why Pearland Stands Out
The rankings considered several factors such as affordability, quality of life, strength of the job market, and overall desirability. Pearland earned an overall score of 7/10, praised for being family-friendly and economically stable. With a population of about 123,986, the city has a young and diverse community.
Nearly 29% of its residents are under 20 years old, while almost 24% fall in the 45–64 age group. The median age is 35.9, making it an active, growing suburb with strong family values.
Affordable Housing and Strong Value
One of Pearland’s biggest attractions is affordable housing. The city scored an impressive 8/10 on the Value Index, offering much better affordability than many similar-sized U.S. cities.
Median home value: $319,753 (compared to the U.S. average of $370,489)
Median monthly rent: $1,403
Homeownership value: Higher when compared to income levels
This balance between income and housing costs makes Pearland especially appealing for young families and professionals looking to buy their first home.
Job Market and Income Strength
Pearland’s economic health is another key factor in its high ranking. With a Job Market Index score of 6.6/10, the city has strong career opportunities and competitive wages.
Median household income: $115,504 (well above the U.S. median of $79,466)
Unemployment rate: 3.6% (lower than the national average of 4.5%)
The city’s closeness to Houston also allows residents to tap into the metro’s wide job market while enjoying suburban living.
Commuting Challenges
One drawback for many Pearland residents is the commute. On average, the daily commute is 31.2 minutes — about nine minutes longer than the national average. Around 95% of residents travel by car, as public transportation options remain limited.
Climate and Lifestyle Appeal
Pearland’s climate is another factor contributing to its appeal. The city enjoys mild winters averaging around 68°F and warm springs and falls at about 72°F. Summers are hot and humid, averaging 85°F, with highs reaching into the mid-90s. Rainfall is moderate, with autumn being the wettest season.
This blend of climate, affordable housing, and suburban comfort makes Pearland especially attractive for families who want space but still want access to Houston’s cultural and professional opportunities.
How the Rankings Are Decided
The Best Places to Live list evaluates 250 cities across the country. Rankings are based on affordability, value for money, healthcare, education, air quality, culture, and job opportunities. To make the top of the list, cities must demonstrate good value, a high quality of life, strong job prospects, and overall desirability.
Pearland’s rise to the top of the U.S. News rankings highlights its balance of affordability, career opportunities, and family-friendly living. With strong home values, excellent income potential, and access to Houston’s job market, Pearland is proving to be one of the most desirable places to live in both Texas and the United States.
While commuting challenges remain, its overall lifestyle and value make it an ideal choice for families, young professionals, and retirees alike.
