Houston, we have a problem—well, it might be a good or bad one depending on who you ask.
According to a new report from the personal finance website WalletHub, the Bayou City ranks as the second most “sinful” city in America, right behind the infamous Sin City itself, Las Vegas. While this might not be a trophy anyone expected—or wanted—this ranking has Houstonians asking: Should we wear this badge of sin with pride or treat it as a wake-up call?
WalletHub’s study delved into America’s darkest tendencies by analyzing metrics tied to the seven deadly sins: anger and hatred, jealousy, greed, lust, vanity, excesses and vices, and laziness. Their findings placed Houston near the top for its struggles with violence, vices, and vanity, leading to a “sin score” that put it second on the list of shame.
For example, Houston ranks:
- 22nd in violent crime rate nationwide, with a particularly troubling 30th spot for aggravated assault offenses.
- 7th in mass shootings from January 2022 to July 2024, reflecting an ongoing challenge with anger and hatred.
- 19th in drunk driving fatalities, highlighting issues with excess.
- 8th for gambling problems, indicating vices are alive and well in the city.
Houstonians also showed an unusually high interest in plastic surgery, contributing to the city’s ranking for vanity.
WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo said, “Certain activities are considered ‘sinful’ by society, whether due to their harmful nature—like violent crimes—or their potential for destruction when left unchecked, such as gambling or excessive drinking.”
The findings also point to deeper systemic issues. Houston’s high rates of violent crime and aggravated assaults reflect broader societal challenges, from socioeconomic disparities to gaps in mental health resources. Similarly, struggles with gambling, excessive drinking, and other vices suggest an environment where coping mechanisms can sometimes spiral out of control.
While the ranking might seem damning, the metrics reflect behaviors common in any major metropolitan area. A city as large and diverse as Houston will inevitably have its share of societal struggles.
Houston area songstress Taliah aired her grievances about the news on social media.
“Five to seven years ago Pre-Covid, nobody talked about Houston, let alone Texas. Now it’s become the vacation spot and the hub for all these people,” she said. “Houston is dangerous, don’t move here. The prices of everything are sky high,h and you will not be able to make it… It is the wild wild west.”
Houston content creator Kyndhalkreates also expressed how the crime in Houston was getting out of control. She resides in the Galleria area, and she filmed a garage with one BMW that has its windows open every day to avoid break-ins and another vehicle whose windows busted open in October. The owner has yet to fix it.
However, see a silver lining—or at least a chance to embrace the city’s reputation with humor. If Las Vegas is number one, at least we’re keeping good company!
And yes, Houston might indulge in excess occasionally, but it’s also a city that celebrates life to the fullest. From its world-class medical center to its thriving arts scene, there’s plenty to counterbalance its darker sides.