Brenham, Washington County, TX demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
18,641
3.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$65,112/yr
13.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,306
6.3% year-over-year change

Brenham population

How many people live in Brenham

Brenham is home to 18,641 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.1% of Brenham locals are male, and 51.9% are female.

Total population
18,641
3.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.1%
8,968
Female
51.9%
9,673
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,968 48.1% 5.3%
Female 9,673 51.9% 1.0%
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 Brenham is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.1% are children under 15, then 22.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.6% of the population, while another 17.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
33.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.1%
15 to 24
22.2%
25 to 44
21.6%
45 to 64
17.9%
Over 65
20.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,382 18.1% -5.1%
15 to 24 4,137 22.2% 10.1%
25 to 44 4,021 21.6% 5.7%
45 to 64 3,331 17.9% -5.9%
Over 65 3,770 20.2% 10.4%
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 Brenham, 90.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 55.8% of locals are Caucasian, 19.9% are African American and 2.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 16.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.5%
Non-citizens
5.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 16,838 90.3% 1.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 847 4.5% 45.5%
Non-citizens 956 5.1% 6.7%
Racial breakdown
White
55.8%
Black or African American
19.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1%
Asian
2.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
16.8%
Other
4.3%
Value Percent
White 10,403 55.8%
Black or African American 3,711 19.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 196 1%
Asian 399 2.1%
Two or more races 3,125 16.8%
Other 807 4.3%

Households in Brenham

A peek inside Brenham households

Brenham has 7,659 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 53.2% are families, while the remaining 46.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,659
3.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,581
Family households
4,078
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,581 46.8% 3.7%
Family households 4,078 53.2% 4.0%
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 Brenham

The housing landscape of Brenham

Brenham's housing consists of 8,306 units, with 61% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.6% 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 5.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,306
6.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,067 61%
1 unit, attached 212 2.6%
2 units 567 6.8%
3 or 4 units 604 7.3%
5 to 9 units 186 2.2%
10 to 19 units 289 3.5%
20 to 49 units 458 5.5%
50 or more units 458 5.5%
Mobile home 465 5.6%
Homes built since 2020
162
138.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Brenham

In Brenham, the median construction year is 1983. About 7.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 15.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 654 7.9% -0.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 595 7.2% 110.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 659 7.9% 2.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 521 6.3% -23.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,440 17.3% 24.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 980 11.8% -8.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 696 8.4% -15.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,295 15.6% 14.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,304 15.7% 0.9%
Built in 2020 or later 162 2% 138.2%
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.

Brenham occupancy rates

Out of the 7,659 occupied housing units in Brenham, 51.1% are owner-occupied, while 48.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,659
3.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,748
Owner occupied
3,911
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,748 48.9% 17.7%
Owner occupied 3,911 51.1% -6.6%
Unoccupied housing units
7.8%
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.

Brenham housing costs

Housing costs in Brenham come to a median of $1,147 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,157.

Median housing costs per month
$1,147/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 Brenham
$1,157/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 Brenham

Brenham education at a glance

About 36.1% of the population in Brenham went to high school, while 25.4% pursued college studies. Another 6.1% earned an associate degree and 19.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 791 5.4% 21.9%
High school diploma 5,258 36.1% 6.3%
College diploma 3,691 25.4% -3.9%
Associate degree 888 6.1% 1.6%
Bachelor's degree 2,879 19.8% 11.8%
Graduate degree 1,040 7.2% 7.3%
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 Brenham

How much people earn in Brenham

The average annual household income in Brenham was $80,844 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $65,112, reflecting a +13.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Brenham
$80,844/year
1.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Brenham
$65,112/year
13.8% year-over-year change

Brenham income by age

In Brenham, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $86,340. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $66,045 overall. Overall, 80.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $86,340 11.7%
45 - 64 $66,045 0.9%
Over 65 $46,771 6.3%
Above poverty level
13,081
Below poverty level
3,093
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 13,081 80.9% 3.1%
Below poverty level 3,093 19.1% 4.5%

Average renter income in Brenham

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Brenham, their median household income was $30,586 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 45.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$30,586
Rent-to-income ratio
45.4%
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 Brenham

Workforce and job types in Brenham

The job market in Brenham is powered by 8,094 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 21% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.6% run their own businesses, 64.8% are employed by private companies, and 18.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,094
5.6% year-over-year change
White collar
6,394
Blue collar
1,700
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,394 79% 8.7%
Blue collar 1,700 21% -4.5%
Employer type
Self employees
8.6%
Private companies
64.8%
Governmental workers
18.7%
Not for profit companies
8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 694 8.6% 4.5%
Private companies 5,241 64.8% 8.6%
Governmental workers 1,515 18.7% -1.8%
Not for profit companies 644 8% 1.9%
Unemployment rate
3.5%
34.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Brenham stands at 3.5%, 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 Brenham

How people get around in Brenham

In Brenham, the average commute time is 18 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 86.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
18 min
14.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,877 86.3% 5.6%
Taxicab 5 0.1% 150.0%
Motorcycle 4 0% -75.0%
Bicycle 55 0.7% -49.1%
Walk 180 2.3% -12.2%
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 Brenham by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
77833 29,498 12,446 $73,388 $99,994

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FAQs about Brenham demographics 

What is the total population of Brenham?

Brenham has a total population of 18,641 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 +3.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Brenham?

The gender ratio in Brenham is as follows:
  • 48.1% males (8,968 residents)
  • 51.9% females (9,673 residents)

What is the median age in Brenham?

The median age in Brenham is 33.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Brenham?

The age distribution in Brenham is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.1% (3,382 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 22.2% (4,137 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.6% (4,021 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 17.9% (3,331 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.2% (3,770 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Brenham?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Brenham is as follows:
  • White: 55.8% (10,403 residents)
  • Black or African American: 19.9% (3,711 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1% (196 residents)
  • Asian: 2.1% (399 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 16.8% (3,125 residents)
  • Other: 4.3% (807 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 90.3% of the population in Brenham.

How many housing units are there in Brenham?

There are 8,306 housing units in Brenham, reflecting a +6.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Brenham has a total of 7,659 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Brenham?

Brenham has a median household income of $65,112, representing a +13.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.5% in Brenham, with a workforce of 8,094 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79% (6,394 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 21% (1,700 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.6% (694 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.8% (5,241 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.7% (1,515 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8% (644 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