Livibility.com has named Midland among its “Top 100 Best Places to Live” for 2026, citing factors including housing affordability, transportation, economy and quality of life.
Midland ranked No. 29 on the list, up from No. 33 in 2025, according to the City of Midland was one of nine Texas cities included in the rankings and the highest-ranked city in West Texas.
The annual rankings by Livability.com evaluate U.S. cities with populations between 75,000 and 500,000 and median home values below $500,000. The rankings are based on nearly 100 data points across categories including economy, housing and cost of living, transportation, education, environment, health, safety and amenities.
According to Livability.com, Midland scored highest in housing and cost of living, transportation and environment. The site cited the city’s role in the Permian Basin energy sector, employment opportunities and relatively affordable housing market.
Livability.com reported Midland’s median home value at approximately $319,162 and average household income at $91,219. The city’s average commute time was listed at 18 minutes.
The report also highlighted Midland’s educational offerings, parks, museums and entertainment venues, including the George W. Bush Childhood Home, Museum of the Southwest and Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center.
Livability.com said this year’s methodology placed additional emphasis on housing affordability because of rising living costs nationwide.