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

Total population
12,134
-1.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,360/yr
-2.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,903
0.2% year-over-year change

Dawson County population

How many people live in Dawson County

Dawson County is home to 12,134 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 57.5% of Dawson County locals are male, and 42.5% are female.

Total population
12,134
-1.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
57.5%
6,981
Female
42.5%
5,153
Value Percent YoY change
Male 6,981 57.5% -2.7%
Female 5,153 42.5% 0.3%
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 Dawson County is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.4% are children under 15, then 15.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.8% of the population, while another 21.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.4%
15 to 24
15.2%
25 to 44
28.8%
45 to 64
21.8%
Over 65
13.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,473 20.4% -0.1%
15 to 24 1,843 15.2% 2.5%
25 to 44 3,489 28.8% -6.5%
45 to 64 2,642 21.8% 0.0%
Over 65 1,687 13.9% 1.4%
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 Dawson County, 91.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 49.5% of locals are Caucasian, 6.7% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 27.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.1%
Non-citizens
5.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 11,060 91.2% -3.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 371 3.1% 24.5%
Non-citizens 703 5.8% 35.5%
Racial breakdown
White
49.5%
Black or African American
6.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
27.5%
Other
15.6%
Value Percent
White 6,001 49.5%
Black or African American 815 6.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 23 0.2%
Asian 63 0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 4 0%
Two or more races 3,336 27.5%
Other 1,892 15.6%

Households in Dawson County

A peek inside Dawson County households

Dawson County has 4,043 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 64.6% are families, while the remaining 35.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,043
-2.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,432
Family households
2,611
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,432 35.4% -1.2%
Family households 2,611 64.6% -3.4%
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 Dawson County

The housing landscape of Dawson County

Dawson County's housing consists of 4,903 units, with 89.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.2% 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 3.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,903
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,374 89.2%
1 unit, attached 9 0.2%
2 units 47 1%
3 or 4 units 64 1.3%
5 to 9 units 104 2.1%
10 to 19 units 18 0.4%
20 to 49 units 46 0.9%
50 or more units 67 1.4%
Mobile home 172 3.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 2 0%
Homes built since 2020
28
-34.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Dawson County

In Dawson County, the median construction year is 1963. About 10.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 1.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 531 10.8% -6.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 475 9.7% 16.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,061 21.6% 17.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,105 22.5% 0.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 757 15.4% 2.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 441 9% -17.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 288 5.9% -10.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 70 1.4% -1.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 147 3% -26.1%
Built in 2020 or later 28 0.6% -34.9%
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.

Dawson County occupancy rates

Out of the 4,043 occupied housing units in Dawson County, 70.6% are owner-occupied, while 29.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 17.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,043
-2.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,187
Owner occupied
2,856
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,187 29.4% -5.0%
Owner occupied 2,856 70.6% -1.6%
Unoccupied housing units
17.5%
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.

Dawson County housing costs

Housing costs in Dawson County come to a median of $690 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $777.

Median housing costs per month
$690/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 Dawson County
$777/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 Dawson County

Dawson County education at a glance

About 51.2% of the population in Dawson County went to high school, while 18.5% pursued college studies. Another 6.4% earned an associate degree and 9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 2.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,141 12.4% 1.6%
High school diploma 4,707 51.2% -1.2%
College diploma 1,696 18.5% -3.5%
Associate degree 585 6.4% 19.4%
Bachelor's degree 830 9% -19.7%
Graduate degree 230 2.5% 15.0%
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 Dawson County

How much people earn in Dawson County

The average annual household income in Dawson County was $78,550 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 $54,360, reflecting a -2.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Dawson County
$78,550/year
7.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Dawson County
$54,360/year
-2.6% year-over-year change

Dawson County income by age

In Dawson County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $66,429. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $54,115 overall. Overall, 80.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $66,429 13.1%
45 - 64 $54,115 -17.0%
Over 65 $28,665 -16.1%
Above poverty level
8,171
Below poverty level
2,011
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 8,171 80.2% -4.5%
Below poverty level 2,011 19.8% 8.2%

Employment in Dawson County

Workforce and job types in Dawson County

The job market in Dawson County is powered by 4,569 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 63.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 36.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.1% run their own businesses, 66.3% are employed by private companies, and 18.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,569
-2.4% year-over-year change
White collar
2,916
Blue collar
1,653
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,916 63.8% -4.7%
Blue collar 1,653 36.2% 2.0%
Employer type
Self employees
13.1%
Private companies
66.3%
Governmental workers
18.4%
Not for profit companies
2.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 600 13.1% 10.1%
Private companies 3,028 66.3% -0.9%
Governmental workers 841 18.4% -10.4%
Not for profit companies 100 2.2% -29.6%
Unemployment rate
6.4%
-22.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Dawson County stands at 6.4%, 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 Dawson County

How people get around in Dawson County

In Dawson County, the average commute time is 24 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 90.2% 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
24 min
10.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 4,084 90.2% -2.8%
Walk 76 1.7% 68.9%
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 Dawson County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
79713 840 247 $64,886 $99,789
79331 11,711 3,888 $54,000 $76,718
79351 1,044 425 $66,853 $110,789
79377 230 90 $44,000 $67,982

Explore more communities

FAQs about Dawson County demographics 

What is the total population of Dawson County?

Dawson County has a total population of 12,134 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 -1.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Dawson County?

The gender ratio in Dawson County is as follows:
  • 57.5% males (6,981 residents)
  • 42.5% females (5,153 residents)

What is the median age in Dawson County?

The median age in Dawson County is 34.8.

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

The age distribution in Dawson County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.4% (2,473 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.2% (1,843 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.8% (3,489 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.8% (2,642 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.9% (1,687 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Dawson County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Dawson County is as follows:
  • White: 49.5% (6,001 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6.7% (815 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (23 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (63 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (4 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 27.5% (3,336 residents)
  • Other: 15.6% (1,892 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.2% of the population in Dawson County.

How many housing units are there in Dawson County?

There are 4,903 housing units in Dawson County, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Dawson County has a total of 4,043 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Dawson County?

Dawson County has a median household income of $54,360, representing a -2.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.6% in Dawson County, with a workforce of 4,569 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 63.8% (2,916 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 36.2% (1,653 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.1% (600 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.3% (3,028 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.4% (841 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 2.2% (100 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