Bars, restaurants and venues in the City of Houston sold more than $1.5 billion in alcoholic beverages in 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 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 $1.2 billion in alcohol and related sales last year, followed by Austin with $1.1 billion. Total sales in both of those cities are down about half a percent year over year. Meanwhile, San Antonio logged $843 million in sales, up 1.8% over 2024 and Fort Worth came in at $476 million, up nearly 4%. 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 just under $2 billion last year, up nearly 1%. Statewide sales totaled $10.4 billion, a 1.1% increase over 2024.

Written by A.J. Mistretta