Houston in Black – Houston's African American Population

Houston is home to the fourth largest city in America and more than 30% of Texas’ African American population. It is the nation’s 9th largest Black population and was the most recent city to reach the 1 million mark.

African Americans in Houston are very excited about the city and its diverse opportunities. Although it receives a great deal of migration from nearby states and other cities across America, Houstonians show a great sense of pride in their city. There are many reasons Houston is cited as a top location for African Americans:

Houston was ranked number five in the U.S. for African Americans by Black Enterprise Magazine (2008)

Ranked in the top 5 cities for African-American families by Black Enterprise Magazine (2004)

Ranked as the third best city for expanding or starting an African-American-owned business by ING U.S. Financial Services Gazelle Index (2004)

Ranked as the top city for African-American families by BET.com (2002)

The lighter the blue, the higher the number of African Americans in that census tract. Source US Census Bureau 2006-2010 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates

Houston was ranked number five in the U.S. for African Americans by Black Enterprise Magazine (2008)
Ranked in the top 5 cities for African-American families by Black Enterprise Magazine (2004)
Ranked as the third best city for expanding or starting an African-American-owned business by ING U.S. Financial Services Gazelle Index (2004)
Ranked as the top city for African-American families by BET.com (2002)

Despite the above, many African Americans in Houston are somewhat bewildered that the city does not garner as much Black media attention as places like Atlanta or DC. Not only does it boast a large Black middle class, and solid economy, it is also one of the most affordable cities in the nation. Phrases like “the new Black Mecca” and “the next Atlanta” have been used as if Houston is currently the best kept secret in Black America.