Central Houston, Houston, TX demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
306,858
3.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$103,812/yr
1.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
173,305
3.9% year-over-year change

Central Houston population

How many people live in Central Houston

Central Houston is home to 306,858 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.1% of Central Houston locals are male, and 48.9% are female.

Total population
306,858
3.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.1%
156,668
Female
48.9%
150,191
Value Percent YoY change
Male 156,668 51.1% 2.8%
Female 150,191 48.9% 4.5%
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 Central Houston is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 12.3% are children under 15, then 12.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 42.7% of the population, while another 21.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
12.3%
15 to 24
12.1%
25 to 44
42.7%
45 to 64
21.1%
Over 65
11.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 37,726 12.3% 3.5%
15 to 24 37,245 12.1% 5.4%
25 to 44 130,913 42.7% 3.0%
45 to 64 64,856 21.1% 3.2%
Over 65 36,117 11.8% 5.0%
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 Central Houston, 77.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 11.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 10.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 54.2% of locals are Caucasian, 13.1% are African American and 11.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 16.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
77.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
11.7%
Non-citizens
10.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 238,713 77.8% 2.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 35,939 11.7% 6.5%
Non-citizens 32,206 10.5% 11.5%
Racial breakdown
White
54.2%
Black or African American
13.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
11.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
16.1%
Other
4.2%
Value Percent
White 166,302 54.2%
Black or African American 40,234 13.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,747 0.6%
Asian 36,053 11.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 134 0%
Two or more races 49,449 16.1%
Other 12,939 4.2%

Households in Central Houston

A peek inside Central Houston households

Central Houston has 153,915 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 41.6% are families, while the remaining 58.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
153,915
4.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
89,813
Family households
64,102
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 89,813 58.4% 3.8%
Family households 64,102 41.6% 4.2%
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 Central Houston

The housing landscape of Central Houston

Central Houston's housing consists of 173,305 units, with 32.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 8.6% 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 0.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
173,305
3.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 56,873 32.8%
1 unit, attached 14,979 8.6%
2 units 2,916 1.7%
3 or 4 units 5,568 3.2%
5 to 9 units 6,742 3.9%
10 to 19 units 8,876 5.1%
20 to 49 units 10,347 6%
50 or more units 66,403 38.3%
Mobile home 588 0.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 12 0%
Homes built since 2020
8,152
79.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Central Houston

In Central Houston, the median construction year is 1997. About 8.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.4% 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, 28.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 4.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 15,483 8.9% -2.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 5,806 3.4% -1.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 8,024 4.6% 1.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 9,946 5.7% -0.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 11,260 6.5% -4.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 14,116 8.2% 0.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 18,574 10.7% 0.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 33,159 19.1% 5.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 48,786 28.2% 4.2%
Built in 2020 or later 8,152 4.7% 79.8%
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.

Central Houston occupancy rates

Out of the 153,915 occupied housing units in Central Houston, 41% are owner-occupied, while 59% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
153,915
4.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
90,875
Owner occupied
63,040
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 90,875 59% 5.0%
Owner occupied 63,040 41% 2.6%
Unoccupied housing units
11.2%
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.

Central Houston housing costs

Housing costs in Central Houston come to a median of $1,922 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,802.

Median housing costs per month
$1,922/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 Central Houston
$1,802/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 Central Houston

Central Houston education at a glance

About 13.4% of the population in Central Houston went to high school, while 12.7% pursued college studies. Another 4% earned an associate degree and 35.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 32.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 5,335 2% -4.2%
High school diploma 35,247 13.4% 2.4%
College diploma 33,474 12.7% 1.7%
Associate degree 10,606 4% 3.1%
Bachelor's degree 93,630 35.5% 3.4%
Graduate degree 85,339 32.4% 5.7%
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 Central Houston

How much people earn in Central Houston

The average annual household income in Central Houston was $179,850 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $103,812, reflecting a +1.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Central Houston
$179,850/year
3.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Central Houston
$103,812/year
1.8% year-over-year change

Central Houston income by age

In Central Houston, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $94,836. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $139,329 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $46,580, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $97,750 in earnings. Overall, 90.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $46,580 -4.5%
25 - 44 $94,836 -3.4%
45 - 64 $139,329 7.3%
Over 65 $97,750 1.8%
Above poverty level
259,266
Below poverty level
27,783
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 259,266 90.3% 4.1%
Below poverty level 27,783 9.7% -0.0%

Employment in Central Houston

Workforce and job types in Central Houston

93.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 6.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.5% run their own businesses, 66.8% are employed by private companies, and 11.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
174,739
Blue collar
11,397
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 174,739 93.9% 4.4%
Blue collar 11,397 6.1% 1.0%
Employer type
Self employees
10.5%
Private companies
66.8%
Governmental workers
11.1%
Not for profit companies
11.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 19,507 10.5% 5.2%
Private companies 124,263 66.8% 2.6%
Governmental workers 20,678 11.1% 11.0%
Not for profit companies 21,688 11.6% 6.4%

Transportation in Central Houston

How people get around in Central Houston

In Central Houston, the average commute time is 147 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 91.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
147 min
33.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 126,607 91.3% 1.0%
Taxicab 649 0.5% 61.4%
Bus or trolleybus 3,290 2.4% 13.4%
Railroad 35 0% -28.6%
Motorcycle 221 0.2% 20.8%
Bicycle 2,046 1.5% 2.4%
Walk 5,779 4.2% 5.2%
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 Central Houston by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
77002 21,015 7,644 $86,394 $126,404
77003 10,164 5,674 $83,980 $114,647
77004 35,997 16,623 $71,199 $103,656
77005 28,874 10,022 $229,267 $353,045
77006 24,892 14,697 $106,533 $173,275
77007 47,808 25,429 $144,911 $198,142
77008 41,645 20,352 $143,229 $223,418
77009 35,769 15,721 $83,148 $144,204
77010 718 417 $189,315 $404,356
77019 23,708 13,359 $116,423 $210,323

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Central Houston demographics 

What is the total population of Central Houston?

Central Houston has a total population of 306,858 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 +3.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Central Houston?

The gender ratio in Central Houston is as follows:
  • 51.1% males (156,668 residents)
  • 48.9% females (150,191 residents)

What is the median age in Central Houston?

The median age in Central Houston is 35.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Central Houston?

The age distribution in Central Houston is as follows:
  • Under 15: 12.3% (37,726 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.1% (37,245 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 42.7% (130,913 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.1% (64,856 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.8% (36,117 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Central Houston?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Central Houston is as follows:
  • White: 54.2% (166,302 residents)
  • Black or African American: 13.1% (40,234 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (1,747 residents)
  • Asian: 11.8% (36,053 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (134 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 16.1% (49,449 residents)
  • Other: 4.2% (12,939 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 77.8% of the population in Central Houston.

How many housing units are there in Central Houston?

There are 173,305 housing units in Central Houston, reflecting a +3.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Central Houston has a total of 153,915 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Central Houston?

Central Houston has a median household income of $103,812, representing a +1.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Central Houston?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 93.9% (174,739 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 6.1% (11,397 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.5% (19,507 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.8% (124,263 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.1% (20,678 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.6% (21,688 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