Bell County, TX demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
386,897
1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$68,865/yr
4.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
155,018
2.1% year-over-year change

Bell County population

How many people live in Bell County

Bell County is home to 386,897 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.8% of Bell County locals are male, and 50.2% are female.

Total population
386,897
1.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.8%
192,592
Female
50.2%
194,305
Value Percent YoY change
Male 192,592 49.8% 1.9%
Female 194,305 50.2% 1.9%
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 Bell County is 32, with the population distributed as follows: about 23.1% are children under 15, then 15% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29.6% of the population, while another 20.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
32.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
23.1%
15 to 24
15%
25 to 44
29.6%
45 to 64
20.4%
Over 65
11.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 89,369 23.1% 0.8%
15 to 24 58,076 15% 1.4%
25 to 44 114,432 29.6% 1.8%
45 to 64 78,873 20.4% 1.8%
Over 65 46,147 11.9% 4.9%
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 Bell County, 86.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 9.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 49.2% of locals are Caucasian, 22.9% are African American and 3% have Asian roots. Another 0.9% are Indigenous American, 0.6% are Pacific Islanders, while 7.3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 16.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
86.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
9.6%
Non-citizens
4.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 333,949 86.3% 1.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 37,236 9.6% 3.4%
Non-citizens 15,712 4.1% 4.3%
Racial breakdown
White
49.2%
Black or African American
22.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.9%
Asian
3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.6%
Two or more races
16.1%
Other
7.3%
Value Percent
White 190,153 49.2%
Black or African American 88,557 22.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 3,317 0.9%
Asian 11,766 3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 2,485 0.6%
Two or more races 62,356 16.1%
Other 28,263 7.3%

Households in Bell County

A peek inside Bell County households

Bell County has 142,305 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 67.1% are families, while the remaining 32.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
142,305
2.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
46,799
Family households
95,506
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 46,799 32.9% 4.3%
Family households 95,506 67.1% 1.9%
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 Bell County

The housing landscape of Bell County

Bell County's housing consists of 155,018 units, with 64.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.2% 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% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
155,018
2.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 100,319 64.7%
1 unit, attached 6,474 4.2%
2 units 7,647 4.9%
3 or 4 units 9,739 6.3%
5 to 9 units 5,758 3.7%
10 to 19 units 7,553 4.9%
20 to 49 units 3,108 2%
50 or more units 4,767 3.1%
Mobile home 9,260 6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 393 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
6,251
62.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Bell County

In Bell County, the median construction year is 1996. About 2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 19.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 20.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,018 2% 11.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,863 1.8% 16.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 6,708 4.3% -2.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 10,245 6.6% 2.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 20,575 13.3% -3.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 22,240 14.4% 1.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 21,094 13.6% -5.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 29,822 19.2% -2.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 32,202 20.8% 7.2%
Built in 2020 or later 6,251 4% 62.3%
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.

Bell County occupancy rates

Out of the 142,305 occupied housing units in Bell County, 56.5% are owner-occupied, while 43.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
142,305
2.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
61,887
Owner occupied
80,418
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 61,887 43.5% 1.9%
Owner occupied 80,418 56.5% 3.4%
Unoccupied housing units
8.2%
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.

Bell County housing costs

Housing costs in Bell County come to a median of $1,260 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,224.

Median housing costs per month
$1,260/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 Bell County
$1,224/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 Bell County

Bell County education at a glance

About 35% of the population in Bell County went to high school, while 27.6% pursued college studies. Another 9.5% earned an associate degree and 16.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 9,962 3.6% 20.1%
High school diploma 98,247 35% 1.8%
College diploma 77,556 27.6% 0.5%
Associate degree 26,669 9.5% 0.7%
Bachelor's degree 46,528 16.6% 3.7%
Graduate degree 21,687 7.7% 0.9%
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 Bell County

How much people earn in Bell County

The average annual household income in Bell County was $89,510 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $68,865, reflecting a +4.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Bell County
$89,510/year
1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Bell County
$68,865/year
4.3% year-over-year change

Bell County income by age

In Bell County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $71,377. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $81,630 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $46,560, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $54,865 in earnings. Overall, 85.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $46,560 3.3%
25 - 44 $71,377 2.7%
45 - 64 $81,630 2.1%
Over 65 $54,865 0.9%
Above poverty level
316,431
Below poverty level
53,537
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 316,431 85.5% 2.1%
Below poverty level 53,537 14.5% 1.1%

Employment in Bell County

Workforce and job types in Bell County

The job market in Bell County is powered by 159,028 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.1% run their own businesses, 63.2% are employed by private companies, and 20.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
159,028
2.7% year-over-year change
White collar
119,237
Blue collar
39,791
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 119,237 75% 1.5%
Blue collar 39,791 25% 6.2%
Employer type
Self employees
9.1%
Private companies
63.2%
Governmental workers
20.1%
Not for profit companies
7.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 14,499 9.1% 4.0%
Private companies 100,584 63.2% 4.0%
Governmental workers 31,896 20.1% -1.8%
Not for profit companies 12,049 7.6% 2.2%
Unemployment rate
6.8%
-5.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Bell County stands at 6.8%, 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 Bell County

How people get around in Bell County

In Bell County, the average commute time is 24 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 87% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
24 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 153,240 87% 1.5%
Taxicab 612 0.4% 48.9%
Bus or trolleybus 513 0.3% -10.0%
Motorcycle 216 0.1% -28.2%
Bicycle 186 0.1% 15.5%
Walk 3,253 1.8% -13.6%
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.

What is the median and average household income in Bell County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
76534 2,675 1,031 $80,536 $91,823
76541 19,011 8,376 $37,349 $56,611
76542 53,892 19,712 $74,055 $88,740
76501 17,752 6,546 $62,532 $76,000
76502 52,669 19,492 $82,088 $102,785
76504 26,166 10,759 $52,803 $67,115
76511 2,702 920 $69,286 $94,213
76513 45,928 15,904 $80,661 $123,553
76519 782 276 $90,682 $101,450

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FAQs about Bell County demographics 

What is the total population of Bell County?

Bell County has a total population of 386,897 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 +1.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Bell County?

The gender ratio in Bell County is as follows:
  • 49.8% males (192,592 residents)
  • 50.2% females (194,305 residents)

What is the median age in Bell County?

The median age in Bell County is 32.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Bell County?

The age distribution in Bell County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 23.1% (89,369 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15% (58,076 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29.6% (114,432 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.4% (78,873 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.9% (46,147 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Bell County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Bell County is as follows:
  • White: 49.2% (190,153 residents)
  • Black or African American: 22.9% (88,557 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.9% (3,317 residents)
  • Asian: 3% (11,766 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.6% (2,485 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 16.1% (62,356 residents)
  • Other: 7.3% (28,263 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 86.3% of the population in Bell County.

How many housing units are there in Bell County?

There are 155,018 housing units in Bell County, reflecting a +2.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Bell County has a total of 142,305 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Bell County?

Bell County has a median household income of $68,865, representing a +4.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Bell County?

The employment rate is 93.2% in Bell County, with a workforce of 159,028 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75% (119,237 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25% (39,791 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.1% (14,499 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.2% (100,584 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20.1% (31,896 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.6% (12,049 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