Houston, We Deserve Better!

The online debate is fierce: New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago are usually considered America’s top three cities. But then comes the controversial fourth slot. If the measure is population, then Houston, Phoenix, and Philadelphia each get a shout-out. In fact, Houston is literally the fourth-largest city in the U.S., so why the hesitation? Let’s be real: being number four by population doesn’t automatically mean Houston is being valued as #4 among America’s best.

Other contenders throw their hats in the ring: Washington, D.C. wields political heft as the nation’s capital; San Francisco dazzles as the unofficial tech and multicultural epicenter; Atlanta claims the busiest airport and a rising cultural scene; Miami charms with international tourists and Latin American flair; Boston dazzles with its history, universities, and entertainment. All excellent arguments, but none squarely confront why Houston, with its sprawling size, robust economy, cultural diversity, and world-class food scene, doesn’t garner the same recognition.

The entire debate hinges on why Houston doesn’t earn more respect. Is population the only yardstick? If not, shouldn’t our energy industry, affordability, booming medical and aerospace sectors, and rich arts culture count? As a Houstonian, I’m left asking: let’s talk about why, because the usual contenders have strengths, yes, but Houston’s is more than worthy, if not more, of being in that fourth slot. And we deserve a good reason for why the city I call home isn’t getting the credit it deserves.

Quite honestly, we should be #3, but one fight at a time!

Doug O’Brien