Galveston, TX demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
53,424
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$55,631/yr
-2.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
35,776
2.5% year-over-year change

Galveston population

How many people live in Galveston

Galveston is home to 53,424 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.6% of Galveston locals are male, and 49.4% are female.

Total population
53,424
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.6%
27,019
Female
49.4%
26,405
Value Percent YoY change
Male 27,019 50.6% -1.1%
Female 26,405 49.4% 1.4%
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 Galveston is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 12.2% are children under 15, then 14.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.1% of the population, while another 25.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
12.2%
15 to 24
14.1%
25 to 44
27.1%
45 to 64
25.7%
Over 65
20.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,498 12.2% -6.1%
15 to 24 7,538 14.1% -5.9%
25 to 44 14,497 27.1% 2.4%
45 to 64 13,711 25.7% 1.3%
Over 65 11,180 20.9% 4.1%
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 Galveston, 84.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 54.6% of locals are Caucasian, 15.4% are African American and 2.8% have Asian roots. Another 0.7% are Indigenous American, 0.3% are Pacific Islanders, while 3.7% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 22.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
84.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.8%
Non-citizens
7.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 45,275 84.8% -1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 4,166 7.8% 6.5%
Non-citizens 3,983 7.5% 8.5%
Racial breakdown
White
54.6%
Black or African American
15.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.7%
Asian
2.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
22.4%
Other
3.7%
Value Percent
White 29,197 54.6%
Black or African American 8,241 15.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 363 0.7%
Asian 1,493 2.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 166 0.3%
Two or more races 11,985 22.4%
Other 1,979 3.7%

Households in Galveston

A peek inside Galveston households

Galveston has 25,198 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 49.9% are families, while the remaining 50.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
25,198
2.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
12,613
Family households
12,585
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 12,613 50.1% 5.6%
Family households 12,585 49.9% 0.1%
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 Galveston

The housing landscape of Galveston

Galveston's housing consists of 35,776 units, with 56.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.1% 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 0.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
35,776
2.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 20,138 56.3%
1 unit, attached 747 2.1%
2 units 1,681 4.7%
3 or 4 units 2,087 5.8%
5 to 9 units 2,125 5.9%
10 to 19 units 3,342 9.3%
20 to 49 units 1,443 4%
50 or more units 4,042 11.3%
Mobile home 171 0.5%
Homes built since 2020
272
92.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Galveston

In Galveston, the median construction year is 1973. About 20.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 7,175 20.1% 7.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,375 3.8% -0.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,971 8.3% -6.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,531 12.7% -0.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 5,798 16.2% 2.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,999 14% -0.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,984 5.6% -12.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,150 8.8% -1.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 3,521 9.8% 23.1%
Built in 2020 or later 272 0.8% 92.9%
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.

Galveston occupancy rates

Out of the 25,198 occupied housing units in Galveston, 46.2% are owner-occupied, while 53.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 29.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
25,198
2.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
13,544
Owner occupied
11,654
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 13,544 53.8% 3.7%
Owner occupied 11,654 46.2% 1.7%
Unoccupied housing units
29.6%
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.

Galveston housing costs

Housing costs in Galveston come to a median of $1,306 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,298.

Median housing costs per month
$1,306/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 Galveston
$1,298/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 Galveston

Galveston education at a glance

About 30% of the population in Galveston went to high school, while 23.4% pursued college studies. Another 8.3% earned an associate degree and 20.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,058 4.5% -6.3%
High school diploma 13,657 30% -1.3%
College diploma 10,679 23.4% -6.3%
Associate degree 3,777 8.3% 7.4%
Bachelor's degree 9,379 20.6% 6.5%
Graduate degree 5,996 13.2% 15.7%
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 Galveston

How much people earn in Galveston

The average annual household income in Galveston was $85,478 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $55,631, reflecting a -2.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Galveston
$85,478/year
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Galveston
$55,631/year
-2.8% year-over-year change

Galveston income by age

In Galveston, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $53,547. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $80,443 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $18,898, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $51,525 in earnings. Overall, 78.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $18,898 -0.7%
25 - 44 $53,547 -2.1%
45 - 64 $80,443 2.2%
Over 65 $51,525 -11.2%
Above poverty level
38,915
Below poverty level
10,533
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 38,915 78.7% -1.3%
Below poverty level 10,533 21.3% 7.3%

Average renter income in Galveston

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Galveston, their median household income was $37,995 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 41%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$37,995
Rent-to-income ratio
41%
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 Galveston

Workforce and job types in Galveston

The job market in Galveston is powered by 24,645 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 81.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.4% run their own businesses, 58.4% are employed by private companies, and 21.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
24,645
0.2% year-over-year change
White collar
19,990
Blue collar
4,655
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 19,990 81.1% -0.3%
Blue collar 4,655 18.9% 2.6%
Employer type
Self employees
12.4%
Private companies
58.4%
Governmental workers
21.1%
Not for profit companies
8.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,063 12.4% 2.9%
Private companies 14,401 58.4% -1.2%
Governmental workers 5,192 21.1% -2.5%
Not for profit companies 1,989 8.1% 15.9%
Unemployment rate
5.8%
-14.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Galveston stands at 5.8%, 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 Galveston

How people get around in Galveston

Commuting methods vary: 77% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 18,575 77% -1.5%
Taxicab 206 0.8% 46.1%
Bus or trolleybus 47 0.2% -46.0%
Ferryboat 15 0.1% N/A
Motorcycle 74 0.3% 21.3%
Bicycle 598 2.5% 24.3%
Walk 1,300 5.4% -7.1%
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 Galveston by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
77550 23,489 11,860 $45,047 $69,707
77551 21,696 9,412 $58,344 $87,392
77554 10,414 5,135 $86,490 $138,352

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FAQs about Galveston demographics 

What is the total population of Galveston?

Galveston has a total population of 53,424 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 Galveston?

The gender ratio in Galveston is as follows:
  • 50.6% males (27,019 residents)
  • 49.4% females (26,405 residents)

What is the median age in Galveston?

The median age in Galveston is 41.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Galveston?

The age distribution in Galveston is as follows:
  • Under 15: 12.2% (6,498 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.1% (7,538 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.1% (14,497 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.7% (13,711 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.9% (11,180 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Galveston?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Galveston is as follows:
  • White: 54.6% (29,197 residents)
  • Black or African American: 15.4% (8,241 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.7% (363 residents)
  • Asian: 2.8% (1,493 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (166 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 22.4% (11,985 residents)
  • Other: 3.7% (1,979 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 84.8% of the population in Galveston.

How many housing units are there in Galveston?

There are 35,776 housing units in Galveston, reflecting a +2.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Galveston has a total of 25,198 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Galveston?

Galveston has a median household income of $55,631, representing a -2.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.2% in Galveston, with a workforce of 24,645 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81.1% (19,990 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18.9% (4,655 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.4% (3,063 residents)
  • Private companies: 58.4% (14,401 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21.1% (5,192 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.1% (1,989 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