Harlingen - San Benito, TX demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
142,761
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$48,828/yr
5.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
55,192
1.6% year-over-year change

Harlingen - San Benito population

How many people live in Harlingen - San Benito

Harlingen - San Benito is home to 142,761 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Harlingen - San Benito locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
142,761
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
70,853
Female
50.4%
71,908
Value Percent YoY change
Male 70,853 49.6% 1.1%
Female 71,908 50.4% 0.7%
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 Harlingen - San Benito is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 24.1% are children under 15, then 14% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.8% of the population, while another 21.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
34
Age breakdown
Under 15
24.1%
15 to 24
14%
25 to 44
24.8%
45 to 64
21.9%
Over 65
15.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 34,448 24.1% -1.4%
15 to 24 19,996 14% 0.3%
25 to 44 35,340 24.8% 0.8%
45 to 64 31,254 21.9% 3.8%
Over 65 21,723 15.2% 1.1%
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 Harlingen - San Benito, 81.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 10.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 40.4% of locals are Caucasian, 1.1% are African American and 0.8% have Asian roots. Another 0.6% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 9.7% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 47.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
81.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.7%
Non-citizens
10.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 116,911 81.9% -0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 11,006 7.7% 3.3%
Non-citizens 14,844 10.4% 7.7%
Racial breakdown
White
40.4%
Black or African American
1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
47.4%
Other
9.7%
Value Percent
White 57,629 40.4%
Black or African American 1,541 1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 809 0.6%
Asian 1,176 0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 111 0.1%
Two or more races 67,599 47.4%
Other 13,895 9.7%

Households in Harlingen - San Benito

A peek inside Harlingen - San Benito households

Harlingen - San Benito has 48,129 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 73.1% are families, while the remaining 26.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
48,129
2.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
12,935
Family households
35,194
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 12,935 26.9% -1.0%
Family households 35,194 73.1% 3.1%
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 Harlingen - San Benito

The housing landscape of Harlingen - San Benito

Harlingen - San Benito's housing consists of 55,192 units, with 64.5% 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 14.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
55,192
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 35,597 64.5%
1 unit, attached 1,432 2.6%
2 units 1,869 3.4%
3 or 4 units 2,616 4.7%
5 to 9 units 2,018 3.7%
10 to 19 units 1,624 2.9%
20 to 49 units 370 0.7%
50 or more units 1,484 2.7%
Mobile home 8,008 14.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 175 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
1,098
76.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Harlingen - San Benito

In Harlingen - San Benito, the median construction year is 1989. About 2.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 19.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 11.9% 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 1,486 2.7% 4.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,775 3.2% -3.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,610 6.5% 1.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,291 6% 0.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 7,486 13.6% -3.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 9,556 17.3% 0.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 9,816 17.8% 3.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 10,523 19.1% -2.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 6,551 11.9% 7.3%
Built in 2020 or later 1,098 2% 76.5%
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.

Harlingen - San Benito occupancy rates

Out of the 48,129 occupied housing units in Harlingen - San Benito, 65.1% are owner-occupied, while 34.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
48,129
2.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
16,804
Owner occupied
31,326
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 16,804 34.9% 5.9%
Owner occupied 31,326 65.1% 0.0%
Unoccupied housing units
12.8%
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.

Harlingen - San Benito housing costs

Housing costs in Harlingen - San Benito come to a median of $635 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $899.

Median housing costs per month
$635/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 Harlingen - San Benito
$899/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 Harlingen - San Benito

Harlingen - San Benito education at a glance

About 41.4% of the population in Harlingen - San Benito went to high school, while 21.1% pursued college studies. Another 8% earned an associate degree and 11.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 11,905 11.8% -3.3%
High school diploma 41,986 41.4% 1.1%
College diploma 21,412 21.1% 1.5%
Associate degree 8,113 8% 2.4%
Bachelor's degree 11,869 11.7% 8.0%
Graduate degree 6,015 5.9% 3.3%
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 Harlingen - San Benito

How much people earn in Harlingen - San Benito

The average annual household income in Harlingen - San Benito was $67,436 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 $48,828, reflecting a +5.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Harlingen - San Benito
$67,436/year
1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Harlingen - San Benito
$48,828/year
5.8% year-over-year change

Harlingen - San Benito income by age

In Harlingen - San Benito, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $49,619. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $69,396 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $34,756, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $39,721 in earnings. Overall, 75.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $34,756 8.3%
25 - 44 $49,619 -11.8%
45 - 64 $69,396 6.9%
Over 65 $39,721 -1.4%
Above poverty level
105,771
Below poverty level
33,963
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 105,771 75.7% -0.2%
Below poverty level 33,963 24.3% 3.5%

Employment in Harlingen - San Benito

Workforce and job types in Harlingen - San Benito

76.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.2% run their own businesses, 65.3% are employed by private companies, and 18.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
44,437
Blue collar
13,337
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 44,437 76.9% -0.2%
Blue collar 13,337 23.1% 5.4%
Employer type
Self employees
12.2%
Private companies
65.3%
Governmental workers
18.2%
Not for profit companies
4.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 7,060 12.2% -2.1%
Private companies 37,725 65.3% 1.4%
Governmental workers 10,485 18.2% 0.1%
Not for profit companies 2,505 4.3% 9.6%

Transportation in Harlingen - San Benito

How people get around in Harlingen - San Benito

In Harlingen - San Benito, the average commute time is 41 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 98% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
41 min
17.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 49,732 98% -0.5%
Taxicab 34 0.1% -12.8%
Bus or trolleybus 56 0.1% -39.8%
Ferryboat 28 0.1% N/A
Motorcycle 71 0.1% 4.4%
Bicycle 64 0.1% -13.5%
Walk 746 1.5% 6.3%
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.

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FAQs about Harlingen - San Benito demographics 

What is the total population of Harlingen - San Benito?

Harlingen - San Benito has a total population of 142,761 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 +0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Harlingen - San Benito?

The gender ratio in Harlingen - San Benito is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (70,853 residents)
  • 50.4% females (71,908 residents)

What is the median age in Harlingen - San Benito?

The median age in Harlingen - San Benito is 34.

What is the age distribution of the population in Harlingen - San Benito?

The age distribution in Harlingen - San Benito is as follows:
  • Under 15: 24.1% (34,448 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14% (19,996 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.8% (35,340 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.9% (31,254 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.2% (21,723 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Harlingen - San Benito?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Harlingen - San Benito is as follows:
  • White: 40.4% (57,629 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.1% (1,541 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (809 residents)
  • Asian: 0.8% (1,176 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (111 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 47.4% (67,599 residents)
  • Other: 9.7% (13,895 residents)

What percentage of the population in Harlingen - San Benito are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 81.9% of the population in Harlingen - San Benito.

How many housing units are there in Harlingen - San Benito?

There are 55,192 housing units in Harlingen - San Benito, reflecting a +1.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Harlingen - San Benito and what is the average household size?

Harlingen - San Benito has a total of 48,129 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Harlingen - San Benito?

Harlingen - San Benito has a median household income of $48,828, representing a +5.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Harlingen - San Benito?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.9% (44,437 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.1% (13,337 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.2% (7,060 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.3% (37,725 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.2% (10,485 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.3% (2,505 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