An Unlikely Texas City Ranks as America’s Second ‘Sin City’ After Las Vegas (And Tops the List for ‘Lust’)

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An Unlikely Texas City Ranks as America's Second 'Sin City' After Las Vegas (And Tops the List for 'Lust')

Illuminated by the dark glimmer of neon lights and nightlife — and revered as the number one party destination in the U.S. — Las Vegas lives up to its wicked nickname: Sin City. With the most casinos per capita and a spot among the top 10 cities with the most strip clubs per capita, it comes as no surprise that, as of 2025, WalletHub ranks the decadent desert destination as the most sinful city in America. The city coming in at number two, however, may come as a bit of a surprise: Houston, Texas.



According to WalletHub, Houston is the second most sinful city in America with a vice index rating of 54.43 (not far off from Vegas’ 60.42). Renowned for its thriving music scene and some of America’s best eateries that serve top-notch soul food, the most-populated city in Texas is a city of many vices. While Vegas ranks number one in the greed department, Houston triumphs as the city of lust.

Where to play in Houston

Dancer boots and men's shoes in a red-lit room



If your darkest desires are fueling your travels, Houston might be the perfect adult playground. With the fifth-highest number of gentleman’s clubs per capita in the U.S. (Las Vegas still has the most places to make it rain), The Lone Star State’s debaucherous metropolis has its fair share of dollar-throwing establishments. 

In the heart of Houston, Bucks Wild is among the city’s most popular clubs, boasting multiple stages ringed with candlelit tables, daily specials, and premier bottle service in a dark and glitzy atmosphere. If you’re looking for classic and casual, Ritz Houston is the city’s oldest gentlemen’s club, operating since 1985, and offers a daytime buffet to feed your stomach while you empty your wallet.

If you want to wine and dine outside of the strip clubs, Houston is a buffet in itself. With something to satisfy every appetite, you’ll find everything from stylish steakhouses like The Capital Grille to rustic barbecue joints like Pinkerton’s. Unwind with a glass of vino at La Carafe, tucked into Houston’s oldest building, or line dance the night away at The Firehouse Saloon, a classic country bar with live music and cowboy boots dangling from the ceiling.

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Where to stay in Houston

Elegant suite in The Houstonian

Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.