Explore the elevation of Houston—one of America’s largest and most vibrant cities, situated just 80 feet above sea level in the flat, coastal plains of Southeast Texas, blending world-class institutions, diverse culture, and a rich history in one sprawling metropolis.

Table of Contents

Where is Houston?

  • Location: Houston is located in Southeast Texas, near Galveston Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.

City Profile

  • Nickname: Known as Space City.
  • Fame: Known for NASA’s Johnson Space Center, Texas Medical Center, and Fortune 500 headquarters.
  • Population: Over 2.3 million residents in the city and more than 6.3 million in the metro area.
  • Size rank: Largest city in Texas and 4th largest in the U.S..

Elevation Basics

  • City elevation: Houston is located at an elevation of just 80 feet (32 m) above sea level.
  • State comparison: Texas has an average elevation of 1,700 feet (520 m), making Houston very low by comparison.
  • Founding date: Founded in 1836 at the confluence of the Buffalo and White Oak Bayous.
  • Incorporated: Became a city in June 1837.
  • Name origin: Named after General Sam Houston, president of the Republic of Texas and hero of the Texas Revolution.
  • Former capital: Served as capital of the Republic of Texas before being replaced by Austin.
  • Growth story: Grew through railroad expansion and later became a hub for industry, energy, and space exploration.

Must-Know Elevation Facts

  • Elevation meaning: Elevation refers to a location’s height above sea level.
  • Why so low? Houston’s coastal location results in a naturally low elevation.
  • City comparison: Comparable to:
    • New York City: 33 feet (10 m)
    • London: 36 feet (11 m)
  • Highest point in Texas: Guadalupe Peak at 8,751 feet (2,667 m).
  • Lowest point in Texas: Sea level at the Gulf of Mexico.
  • Highest city in Texas: Fort Davis at 4,900 feet (1,494 m).
  • Major Texas city comparison:
    • Dallas: 430 feet (131 m)
    • San Antonio: 650 feet (198 m)
    • Austin: 489 feet (149 m)
  • Elevation rank: Houston is the lowest major city in Texas and among the lowest in the U.S.

Climate and Tourism

  • Climate type: Houston has a humid subtropical climate.
  • Summer temperatures: Hot and humid, often exceeding 90°F (32°C).
  • Winter conditions: Mild with occasional cold fronts; rarely drops below 32°F (0°C).
  • Snowfall: Snow is rare, though it does occasionally occur.
  • Major institutions: Features NASA, museums, performing arts venues, and a thriving cultural scene.
  • Recreation: Parks, green spaces, and major league sports contribute to a vibrant urban lifestyle.

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