OBJECTIVES: The outbreak of Ebola in 2014 has been the largest in history, affecting multiple countries in West Africa and cases were diagnosed within the United States as well. This study uses the framework of the Health Belief Model and aims to understand the perceptions of a cohort of individuals in Houston, Texas towards this outbreak, measured as the likelihood of performing preventive behaviors. METHODS: This is a prospective, cross sectional study design with an anonymous, self-administered survey based on the constructs of the Health Belief Model. Individuals aged 18 or older were requested for their participation by convenience sampling at public places in Houston, Texas between 4^th November and 28^th December 2014. The variables measured were perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived threat, knowledge about Ebola, self-efficacy and existing health belief. For statistical analysis the Health Belief Model based statements in the survey were grouped as per domain, the scores were summed up to give the variable values, which were tested in a multiple regression model. RESULTS:  A total of 283 participants aged 18 to 74 (Mean: 34.5±12.7, 54.8% male) completed the survey. Of the Health Belief Model constructs tested for, perceived susceptibility (p=0.0366), perceived threat (p<0.0001), educational level (p=0.0470), actively following the news (p=0.0015) and existing health belief (p=0.0003) were predictors of the likelihood to perform preventive health behaviors. CONCLUSIONS: The Health Belief Model adequately predicted public perception regarding their belief about the threat of the disease and susceptibility towards the disease. Educating the public about the actual risks of Ebola in United States through various media can elicit appropriate behavior in any future cases of outbreak within the United States.