Texas City Drops From #1 On America’s Obesity List

For years, this one Texas city held the #1 title, and it's not a title you want to hold. Since at least 2022, McAllen, Texas, has continuously ranked as the most overweight and obese city in the United States.

Read More: McAllen, Texas Once Again Tops the List for Most Obese in the US

However, a new WalletHub report shows a change. McAllen is no longer #1, and it is no longer the most obese city in the United States. McAllen didn't suddenly drop a ton of weight and fall off the list. They just dropped down to the second spot, leaving another city to take the title.

Why McAllen, Texas Ranks High For Obesity

Over 45% of adults in McAllen are considered obese, while 31% are considered overweight. The city still ranks high in teen and child obesity.

The researchers found several factors that contribute to obesity:

• High rates of physical inactivity
• Limited access to parks or recreational areas
• Diet and lifestyle patterns

WalletHub analyzed 100 of the most populated U.S. metro areas across multiple metrics tied to weight and health:

• Obesity and overweight rates
• Health consequences
• Food and fitness access

What City Is Now The Most Obese In America?

That would be Little Rock, Arkansas.

Why Southern States Rank Higher For Obesity

Unfortunately, it's the southern states that seem to take the top spots in this study. Some of the contributing factors include:

• Limited walkability in many cities
• Hot climates that discourage outdoor exercise
• Access to healthy food options
• Economic factors and healthcare access

Which Texas Cities Rank Highest For Obesity?

McAllen wasn't the only Texas city to make this year's list, but it was the only one in the Top 10.

• El Paso - #24
• San Antonio - #25
• Dallas - #35
• Houston - #42
• Austin - #60

Read More: How Texas Became One of the Fattest States in the U.S.

Is Texas Becoming Less Obese?

With McAllen dropping to number 2 for the first time in years, it might sound like good news. However, it and the rest of Texas still have some work to do when it comes to obesity. Texas continues to show up in national obesity rankings.  How can we, as Texans, change this for the future?