The Partnership sends updates for the most important economic indicators each month. If you would like to opt-in to receive these updates, please click here.

Houston-area dealers sold 381,323 new cars, trucks, and SUVs in the 12 months ending August ‘26, according to TexAuto Facts published by InfoNation Inc. Sales were essential flat, declining by 0.3 percent from 382,381 sales in the same period last year. Passenger car sales fell by 4.1 percent over the past 12 months, which truck and SUV sales increased 0.7 percent. Trucks and SUVs continued to dominate the market, accounting for 81 percent of all Houston-area vehicle sales during this period.

Year-to-date sales through August ‘26 totaled 252,086 vehicles, down 1.9 percent compared with the same period in ’25. Comparisons with ’25 remain challenging, since vehicle sales were particularly strong during the first half of last year when many consumers accelerated purchases ahead of anticipated tariff-related price increases. August sales were particularly strong, totaling 30,628 vehicles. Up 8.9 percent from 28,137 in August ’25.

Overall vehicle prices increased year-over-year in August, with truck, SUV, and car prices all increasing:
• The average retail price for all new vehicles was $51,525, up from $50,975 in August ’25.
• The average retail price for a new truck/SUV was $53,696, up from $53,400 in August ’25.
• The average retail price for a new car was $41,324, up from $40,242 in August ’25.

Prepared by Greater Houston Partnership Research

Colin Baker
Director of Economic Research
bakerc@houston.org

Tia Hufstetler
Research Analyst
thufstetler@houston.org