Houston Retail Market Report

Visitors and Houstonians spending more. Like most metros, the retail sector in Houston was initially impeded by the pandemic and coinciding changes in consumer lifestyles and tourism. Now in 2022, those headwinds have largely retreated. Entering the second quarter, the market's retail trade job count is about 19,000 roles higher than the February 2020 equivalent, with hiring activity facilitated by robust consumer spending. During the 12-month period ended in March, retail sales in Houston soared by more than 18 percent, as the metro's population grew by 100,000 residents during that span. Alongside shopping by locals, more visitors are coming to the Space City and spending on goods and services. In March, the passenger count at George Bush Intercontinental Airport was up 45 percent year-over-year, according to the Houston Airport System.