Brownsville, FL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
16,936
3.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$40,795/yr
6.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,295
0.9% year-over-year change

Brownsville population

How many people live in Brownsville

Brownsville is home to 16,936 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.9% of Brownsville locals are male, and 50.1% are female.

Total population
16,936
3.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.9%
8,456
Female
50.1%
8,480
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,456 49.9% 1.8%
Female 8,480 50.1% 4.8%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Brownsville is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.1% are children under 15, then 14.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.4% of the population, while another 26.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.1%
15 to 24
14.5%
25 to 44
24.4%
45 to 64
26.3%
Over 65
17.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,895 17.1% 12.9%
15 to 24 2,456 14.5% 7.5%
25 to 44 4,139 24.4% -0.7%
45 to 64 4,460 26.3% -2.5%
Over 65 2,986 17.6% 6.6%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Brownsville, 59.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 19.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 20.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 9% of locals are Caucasian, 46% are African American and 0.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 26.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
59.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
19.5%
Non-citizens
20.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 10,092 59.6% 2.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,307 19.5% 0.1%
Non-citizens 3,537 20.9% 9.3%
Racial breakdown
White
9%
Black or African American
46%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
26.2%
Other
18.6%
Value Percent
White 1,520 9%
Black or African American 7,792 46%
American Indian and Alaska Native 26 0.2%
Asian 13 0.1%
Two or more races 4,433 26.2%
Other 3,152 18.6%

Households in Brownsville

A peek inside Brownsville households

Brownsville has 6,400 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 57.9% are families, while the remaining 42.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,400
-0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,692
Family households
3,708
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,692 42.1% -1.1%
Family households 3,708 57.9% -0.4%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Brownsville

The housing landscape of Brownsville

Brownsville's housing consists of 7,295 units, with 47.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.1% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 6.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
7,295
0.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,450 47.3%
1 unit, attached 301 4.1%
2 units 439 6%
3 or 4 units 468 6.4%
5 to 9 units 366 5%
10 to 19 units 216 3%
20 to 49 units 336 4.6%
50 or more units 1,253 17.2%
Mobile home 466 6.4%
Homes built since 2020
181
38.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Brownsville

In Brownsville, the median construction year is 1966. About 16.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 10.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 15% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,188 16.3% 6.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 777 10.6% 1.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,149 15.8% -18.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 857 11.8% -0.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 784 10.8% 33.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 348 4.8% 4.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 266 3.6% -17.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 651 8.9% 1.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,094 15% 2.3%
Built in 2020 or later 181 2.5% 38.2%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Brownsville occupancy rates

Out of the 6,400 occupied housing units in Brownsville, 35.7% are owner-occupied, while 64.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,400
-0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,117
Owner occupied
2,283
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,117 64.3% -1.9%
Owner occupied 2,283 35.7% 1.6%
Unoccupied housing units
12.3%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Brownsville housing costs

Housing costs in Brownsville come to a median of $1,226 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,252.

Median housing costs per month
$1,226/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Brownsville
$1,252/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Brownsville

Brownsville education at a glance

About 53.3% of the population in Brownsville went to high school, while 12.1% pursued college studies. Another 8.9% earned an associate degree and 8.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,622 12.2% -3.7%
High school diploma 7,114 53.3% 0.9%
College diploma 1,621 12.1% -5.0%
Associate degree 1,193 8.9% 28.3%
Bachelor's degree 1,190 8.9% 0.3%
Graduate degree 615 4.6% 6.8%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Brownsville

How much people earn in Brownsville

The average annual household income in Brownsville was $53,037 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $40,795, reflecting a +6.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Brownsville
$53,037/year
7.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Brownsville
$40,795/year
6.1% year-over-year change

Brownsville income by age

In Brownsville, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $48,355. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $54,393 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $21,775, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $19,283 in earnings. Overall, 73.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $21,775 -0.9%
25 - 44 $48,355 5.3%
45 - 64 $54,393 3.5%
Over 65 $19,283 11.5%
Above poverty level
12,461
Below poverty level
4,403
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 12,461 73.9% 3.0%
Below poverty level 4,403 26.1% 5.7%

Average renter income in Brownsville

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Brownsville, their median household income was $24,907 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 60.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$24,907
Rent-to-income ratio
60.3%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Brownsville

Workforce and job types in Brownsville

The job market in Brownsville is powered by 7,286 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 59.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 40.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.4% run their own businesses, 72.2% are employed by private companies, and 12.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
7,286
4.5% year-over-year change
White collar
4,312
Blue collar
2,974
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,312 59.2% -3.9%
Blue collar 2,974 40.8% 19.5%
Employer type
Self employees
8.4%
Private companies
72.2%
Governmental workers
12.1%
Not for profit companies
7.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 615 8.4% -5.5%
Private companies 5,257 72.2% 5.7%
Governmental workers 883 12.1% -5.9%
Not for profit companies 531 7.3% 28.9%
Unemployment rate
7.5%
-13.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Brownsville stands at 7.5%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Brownsville

How people get around in Brownsville

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 5,668 79% 1.3%
Taxicab 50 0.7% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 377 5.2% 27.4%
Subway or elevated 191 2.7% N/A
Railroad 14 0.2% -6.7%
Motorcycle 24 0.3% 4.3%
Bicycle 101 1.4% 146.3%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

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FAQs about Brownsville demographics 

What is the total population of Brownsville?

Brownsville has a total population of 16,936 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +3.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Brownsville?

The gender ratio in Brownsville is as follows:
  • 49.9% males (8,456 residents)
  • 50.1% females (8,480 residents)

What is the median age in Brownsville?

The median age in Brownsville is 40.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Brownsville?

The age distribution in Brownsville is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.1% (2,895 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.5% (2,456 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.4% (4,139 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.3% (4,460 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.6% (2,986 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Brownsville?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Brownsville is as follows:
  • White: 9% (1,520 residents)
  • Black or African American: 46% (7,792 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (26 residents)
  • Asian: 0.1% (13 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 26.2% (4,433 residents)
  • Other: 18.6% (3,152 residents)

What percentage of the population in Brownsville are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 59.6% of the population in Brownsville.

How many housing units are there in Brownsville?

There are 7,295 housing units in Brownsville, reflecting a +0.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Brownsville and what is the average household size?

Brownsville has a total of 6,400 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Brownsville?

Brownsville has a median household income of $40,795, representing a +6.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Brownsville?

The employment rate is 92.5% in Brownsville, with a workforce of 7,286 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 59.2% (4,312 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 40.8% (2,974 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.4% (615 residents)
  • Private companies: 72.2% (5,257 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.1% (883 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.3% (531 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025