Bars, restaurants and venues in the City of Houston sold more than $665 million in alcoholic beverages in the first five months of 2025, an amount that was essentially flat compared with the same period in 2024, according to data from the Texas Comptroller’s office.

Alcoholic beverage sales—including wine, beer and spirits—are just one barometer of spending trends and general consumer sentiment. Higher sales mean busier restaurants and nightlife and suggest consumers are willing to go out and spend on non-essentials. 

There are currently more than 2,400 venues across the city selling mixed beverages, the largest number among the state’s top cities, followed in order by Dallas, Austin, San Antonio and Fort Worth. As the largest city in the state by both population and geography, it makes sense that Houston is also home to the largest number of establishments.

Looking at the other major Texas cities, Dallas reported $504 million in alcohol and related sales during the first five months of the year, followed closely by Austin with $490 million. Total sales in both of those cities are down about half a percent year over year. Meanwhile, San Antonio logged $361 million in sales, up 2% over 2024 and Fort Worth came in at $200 million, up 5%. Importantly, these figures cover alcohol served directly to consumers in bars and restaurants, not sold in liquor stores or other retail businesses. 

Zooming out in the Houston area, Harris County reported total sales of $833 million during the five-month period, up nearly half a percent.

Written by A.J. Mistretta