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The Cities That Are Getting Richer (And Those That Aren’t) in 2026
As we move through 2026, evaluating the financial trajectory of cities has never been more important. With the rapid evolution of the job market, economic conditions, and lifestyle preferences, understanding which cities are thriving financially provides valuable insight for job seekers and investors alike.
Common metrics for assessing a city’s progress include job availability, employment rates, local amenities, and the presence of established companies. However, one of the most straightforward indicators of a city’s financial health is the increase in high-income households.
To identify cities experiencing significant financial growth, we analyzed data reflecting the rise in households earning over $100,000. Below are the 25 cities that have seen the most substantial growth in this income bracket:
All the cities listed above experienced a minimum increase of 2.5% in households earning over $200,000. While California continues to dominate the rankings, a diverse range of cities from across the country have also made the list.
On the flip side, not all cities have shared in this upward trend. Some have seen a decline in the number of high-income households:
Cedar Rapids, Iowa and Frisco, Texas have both reported a decrease in households earning over $100,000. Other cities on the list experienced stagnant growth, indicating a lack of momentum in high-income household expansion.
How We Determined This
We utilized data from the Census’ American Community Survey to analyze the percentage of households earning over $100,000 in 2021 compared to previous years. We combined income brackets of $100,000 to $149,999, $150,000 to $199,999, and over $200,000 to paint a comprehensive picture.
Our analysis focused on the 200 U.S. cities with the highest number of households. Greater increases in high-income households indicate a wealthier city.
Wait, why are we saying over $100,000 is rich?
As of 2021, the median household income in the U.S. was approximately $70,000. While earning $100,000 may not equate to billionaire status, it significantly surpasses the average household income. A higher income tax base within a city is beneficial, as it supports public services and amenities that enhance the overall desirability of the area.
The perception of what $100,000 means can vary greatly based on the cost of living. For instance, a $100,000 salary in San Francisco offers a different lifestyle than the same amount in Amarillo. Nonetheless, a rise in higher-earning households is generally a positive indicator for any city’s economic health.
As we look to the future, keeping an eye on cities that are financially thriving can guide career decisions and investment opportunities, ultimately shaping the economic landscape of our communities.
Author
Kathy is the head of content at Zippia with a knack for engaging audiences. Prior to joining Zippia, Kathy worked at Gateway Blend growing audiences across diverse brands. She graduated from Troy University with a degree in Social Science Education.
