Brownwood, Brown County, TX demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
18,777
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$48,981/yr
2.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,671
1.9% year-over-year change

Brownwood population

How many people live in Brownwood

Brownwood is home to 18,777 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.6% of Brownwood locals are male, and 51.4% are female.

Total population
18,777
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.6%
9,121
Female
51.4%
9,656
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,121 48.6% 1.6%
Female 9,656 51.4% -1.8%
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 Brownwood is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.6% are children under 15, then 16.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.6% of the population, while another 23.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.6%
15 to 24
16.2%
25 to 44
25.6%
45 to 64
23.5%
Over 65
17.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,299 17.6% -3.6%
15 to 24 3,042 16.2% -6.0%
25 to 44 4,806 25.6% 0.9%
45 to 64 4,414 23.5% 3.6%
Over 65 3,216 17.1% 3.0%
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 Brownwood, 94% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 68.4% of locals are Caucasian, 5% are African American and 0.7% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 6.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 19.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.5%
Non-citizens
3.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 17,652 94% -0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 462 2.5% 18.5%
Non-citizens 663 3.5% -0.3%
Racial breakdown
White
68.4%
Black or African American
5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
19.3%
Other
6.4%
Value Percent
White 12,842 68.4%
Black or African American 947 5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 34 0.2%
Asian 129 0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 11 0.1%
Two or more races 3,617 19.3%
Other 1,197 6.4%

Households in Brownwood

A peek inside Brownwood households

Brownwood has 7,399 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 56.1% are families, while the remaining 43.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,399
0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,251
Family households
4,148
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,251 43.9% 5.3%
Family households 4,148 56.1% -2.5%
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 Brownwood

The housing landscape of Brownwood

Brownwood's housing consists of 8,671 units, with 65.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.7% 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 3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,671
1.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,663 65.3%
1 unit, attached 149 1.7%
2 units 406 4.7%
3 or 4 units 482 5.6%
5 to 9 units 821 9.5%
10 to 19 units 279 3.2%
20 to 49 units 230 2.6%
50 or more units 365 4.2%
Mobile home 264 3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 12 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
122
1,425.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Brownwood

In Brownwood, the median construction year is 1972. About 5.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 14.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 3.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 449 5.2% 4.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,277 14.7% 2.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,083 12.5% -9.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,172 13.5% -3.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,070 23.9% 9.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,290 14.9% 0.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 507 5.8% -10.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 342 3.9% 18.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 359 4.1% -5.3%
Built in 2020 or later 122 1.4% 1,425.0%
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.

Brownwood occupancy rates

Out of the 7,399 occupied housing units in Brownwood, 54.8% are owner-occupied, while 45.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 14.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,399
0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,347
Owner occupied
4,052
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,347 45.2% 3.1%
Owner occupied 4,052 54.8% -1.0%
Unoccupied housing units
14.7%
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.

Brownwood housing costs

Housing costs in Brownwood come to a median of $896 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $882.

Median housing costs per month
$896/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 Brownwood
$882/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 Brownwood

Brownwood education at a glance

About 40.2% of the population in Brownwood went to high school, while 28.5% pursued college studies. Another 9.3% earned an associate degree and 12% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 740 5% -8.5%
High school diploma 5,913 40.2% -5.6%
College diploma 4,191 28.5% 5.8%
Associate degree 1,365 9.3% 24.8%
Bachelor's degree 1,764 12% 8.6%
Graduate degree 724 4.9% -1.9%
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 Brownwood

How much people earn in Brownwood

The average annual household income in Brownwood was $68,733 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $48,981, reflecting a +2.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Brownwood
$68,733/year
-0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Brownwood
$48,981/year
2.4% year-over-year change

Brownwood income by age

In Brownwood, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $56,632. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $53,869 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $48,875, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $38,125 in earnings. Overall, 79.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $48,875 -11.5%
25 - 44 $56,632 4.5%
45 - 64 $53,869 -0.5%
Over 65 $38,125 16.2%
Above poverty level
13,930
Below poverty level
3,684
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 13,930 79.1% -2.5%
Below poverty level 3,684 20.9% 10.6%

Average renter income in Brownwood

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Brownwood, their median household income was $26,554 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 39.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$26,554
Rent-to-income ratio
39.9%
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 Brownwood

Workforce and job types in Brownwood

The job market in Brownwood is powered by 8,490 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 68.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 31.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.4% run their own businesses, 66% are employed by private companies, and 14.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,490
-0.4% year-over-year change
White collar
5,821
Blue collar
2,669
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,821 68.6% -0.1%
Blue collar 2,669 31.4% -1.1%
Employer type
Self employees
10.4%
Private companies
66%
Governmental workers
14.5%
Not for profit companies
9.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 879 10.4% 18.0%
Private companies 5,603 66% -2.1%
Governmental workers 1,231 14.5% -9.8%
Not for profit companies 777 9.2% 12.8%
Unemployment rate
4.8%
20.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Brownwood stands at 4.8%, 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 Brownwood

How people get around in Brownwood

In Brownwood, the average commute time is 14 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 93.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.7% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
14 min
-2.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 7,842 93.1% 0.7%
Bus or trolleybus 116 1.4% 23.4%
Bicycle 20 0.2% -61.5%
Walk 147 1.7% -4.5%
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 Brownwood by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
76801 25,146 9,880 $54,231 $72,670

Explore more communities

FAQs about Brownwood demographics 

What is the total population of Brownwood?

Brownwood has a total population of 18,777 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 -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Brownwood?

The gender ratio in Brownwood is as follows:
  • 48.6% males (9,121 residents)
  • 51.4% females (9,656 residents)

What is the median age in Brownwood?

The median age in Brownwood is 37.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Brownwood?

The age distribution in Brownwood is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.6% (3,299 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16.2% (3,042 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.6% (4,806 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.5% (4,414 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.1% (3,216 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Brownwood?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Brownwood is as follows:
  • White: 68.4% (12,842 residents)
  • Black or African American: 5% (947 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (34 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (129 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (11 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 19.3% (3,617 residents)
  • Other: 6.4% (1,197 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94% of the population in Brownwood.

How many housing units are there in Brownwood?

There are 8,671 housing units in Brownwood, reflecting a +1.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Brownwood has a total of 7,399 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Brownwood?

Brownwood has a median household income of $48,981, representing a +2.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.2% in Brownwood, with a workforce of 8,490 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 68.6% (5,821 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 31.4% (2,669 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.4% (879 residents)
  • Private companies: 66% (5,603 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.5% (1,231 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.2% (777 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