Austin ranked among the best places to live in the U.S. in a new report — but several other Texas cities scored higher.
In Niche’s 2026 “Best Places to Live” rankings, Austin came in at No. 28 overall with an “A” grade.
Niche — formerly known as College Prowler — evaluates cities using 15 metrics, including public schools, crime rates, housing, jobs and access to amenities. The data draws from sources such as the U.S. Census, FBI, Bureau of Labor Statistics and CDC.
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How Austin scored
Austin earned high marks for lifestyle and diversity but lagged in affordability and housing:
A in nightlife and diversity
A- in family-friendliness and commute
B+ in public schools, jobs, outdoor activities, weather, and health and fitness
C in housing and crime and safety
Among 229 cities analyzed, Austin also ranked No. 15 for young professionals and No. 40 for raising a family.
Which Texas cities ranked higher?
The Woodlands was named the No. 3 best city to live in and the No. 2 best city to raise a family in Niche’s 2026 rankings. (Jason Fochtman/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images)
Five Texas cities placed ahead of Austin in the national rankings:
The Woodlands (No. 3), also No. 2 for raising a family
Plano (No. 6), also No. 5 for retirement
Richardson (No. 15), also No. 8 for retirement
Austin (No. 28)
College Station (No. 30)
The Woodlands was the highest-ranked Texas city at No. 3 overall.
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