#43: Texas
Minimum wage: $7.25
Texas wealth is often driven by energy, technology, real estate, finance, healthcare, and entrepreneurship. High earners live in major metro areas like Austin, Dallas, Houston, and affluent suburbs, enjoying large homes, private amenities, and business-friendly conditions that support rapid wealth-building and investment.

For lower-income Texans, many jobs are in retail, food service, construction support, and caregiving. Housing costs are rising quickly in urban areas, while wages remain low. Limited public transportation and healthcare access can strain households working full-time at minimum wage.
