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

Total population
423,897
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$57,482/yr
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
171,031
1.6% year-over-year change

Southeast Houston population

How many people live in Southeast Houston

Southeast Houston is home to 423,897 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.9% of Southeast Houston locals are male, and 51.1% are female.

Total population
423,897
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.9%
207,418
Female
51.1%
216,479
Value Percent YoY change
Male 207,418 48.9% 0.1%
Female 216,479 51.1% 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 Southeast Houston is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.5% are children under 15, then 15.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.7% of the population, while another 23.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
35
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.5%
15 to 24
15.1%
25 to 44
27.7%
45 to 64
23.8%
Over 65
12.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 86,826 20.5% -1.8%
15 to 24 63,929 15.1% 0.1%
25 to 44 117,594 27.7% 1.2%
45 to 64 100,966 23.8% 0.2%
Over 65 54,581 12.9% 3.1%
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 Southeast Houston, 74% of the population are US-born citizens, while 11.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 14.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 24% of locals are Caucasian, 26.6% are African American and 7.3% have Asian roots. Another 1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 13.7% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 27.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
74%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
11.5%
Non-citizens
14.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 313,669 74% -1.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 48,672 11.5% 4.0%
Non-citizens 61,555 14.5% 5.5%
Racial breakdown
White
24%
Black or African American
26.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1%
Asian
7.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
27.4%
Other
13.7%
Value Percent
White 101,504 24%
Black or African American 112,743 26.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 4,038 1%
Asian 31,040 7.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 458 0.1%
Two or more races 115,982 27.4%
Other 58,131 13.7%

Households in Southeast Houston

A peek inside Southeast Houston households

Southeast Houston has 155,075 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 65.2% are families, while the remaining 34.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
155,075
1.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
53,974
Family households
101,101
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 53,974 34.8% 1.6%
Family households 101,101 65.2% 0.9%
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 Southeast Houston

The housing landscape of Southeast Houston

Southeast Houston's housing consists of 171,031 units, with 59.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.7% 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 1.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
171,031
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 102,351 59.8%
1 unit, attached 6,309 3.7%
2 units 3,193 1.9%
3 or 4 units 7,160 4.2%
5 to 9 units 11,315 6.6%
10 to 19 units 14,502 8.5%
20 to 49 units 8,561 5%
50 or more units 15,112 8.8%
Mobile home 2,430 1.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 96 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
3,791
68.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Southeast Houston

In Southeast Houston, the median construction year is 1980. About 3.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 6,192 3.6% 2.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 8,808 5.2% 3.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 24,763 14.5% -4.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 20,130 11.8% -0.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 30,030 17.6% -1.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 19,701 11.5% 0.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 13,968 8.2% -1.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 25,780 15.1% 7.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 17,868 10.4% 4.5%
Built in 2020 or later 3,791 2.2% 68.2%
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.

Southeast Houston occupancy rates

Out of the 155,075 occupied housing units in Southeast Houston, 55% are owner-occupied, while 45% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
155,075
1.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
69,810
Owner occupied
85,265
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 69,810 45% 0.3%
Owner occupied 85,265 55% 1.9%
Unoccupied housing units
9.3%
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.

Southeast Houston housing costs

Housing costs in Southeast Houston come to a median of $1,248 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,288.

Median housing costs per month
$1,248/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 Southeast Houston
$1,288/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 Southeast Houston

Southeast Houston education at a glance

About 36.6% of the population in Southeast Houston went to high school, while 20.9% pursued college studies. Another 6.9% earned an associate degree and 15.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 33,033 10.4% 3.4%
High school diploma 115,999 36.6% 1.7%
College diploma 66,206 20.9% -2.1%
Associate degree 21,971 6.9% -1.0%
Bachelor's degree 49,269 15.6% 0.6%
Graduate degree 30,463 9.6% 4.5%
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 Southeast Houston

How much people earn in Southeast Houston

The average annual household income in Southeast Houston was $90,663 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 $57,482, reflecting a +0.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Southeast Houston
$90,663/year
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Southeast Houston
$57,482/year
0.7% year-over-year change

Southeast Houston income by age

In Southeast Houston, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $69,059. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $67,084 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $39,535, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $42,970 in earnings. Overall, 80.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $39,535 7.5%
25 - 44 $69,059 6.5%
45 - 64 $67,084 0.5%
Over 65 $42,970 7.4%
Above poverty level
331,323
Below poverty level
82,337
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 331,323 80.1% -0.1%
Below poverty level 82,337 19.9% 2.5%

Employment in Southeast Houston

Workforce and job types in Southeast Houston

71.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.1% run their own businesses, 70.1% are employed by private companies, and 13.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
137,793
Blue collar
53,974
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 137,793 71.8% 0.2%
Blue collar 53,974 28.2% -1.4%
Employer type
Self employees
10.1%
Private companies
70.1%
Governmental workers
13.5%
Not for profit companies
6.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 19,355 10.1% 9.3%
Private companies 134,372 70.1% -2.0%
Governmental workers 25,867 13.5% 2.1%
Not for profit companies 12,173 6.4% 0.7%

Transportation in Southeast Houston

How people get around in Southeast Houston

In Southeast Houston, the average commute time is 305 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 94.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
305 min
29.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 154,646 94.4% -2.5%
Taxicab 1,187 0.7% 108.6%
Bus or trolleybus 4,446 2.7% 12.6%
Railroad 32 0% 33.3%
Motorcycle 173 0.1% -5.5%
Bicycle 742 0.4% 94.2%
Walk 2,595 1.6% -9.1%
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 Southeast Houston by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
77004 35,997 16,623 $71,199 $103,656
77017 29,640 10,362 $51,079 $65,444
77021 26,153 11,258 $45,574 $81,468
77023 24,281 10,270 $51,430 $79,683
77033 29,154 9,561 $38,071 $56,808
77034 36,456 12,520 $58,217 $73,961
77047 34,987 12,934 $78,538 $99,553
77048 21,151 7,477 $56,747 $70,991
77051 19,795 6,953 $37,415 $52,727
77058 17,850 9,938 $68,722 $89,695

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FAQs about Southeast Houston demographics 

What is the total population of Southeast Houston?

Southeast Houston has a total population of 423,897 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 +0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Southeast Houston?

The gender ratio in Southeast Houston is as follows:
  • 48.9% males (207,418 residents)
  • 51.1% females (216,479 residents)

What is the median age in Southeast Houston?

The median age in Southeast Houston is 35.

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

The age distribution in Southeast Houston is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.5% (86,826 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.1% (63,929 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.7% (117,594 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.8% (100,966 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.9% (54,581 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Southeast Houston?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Southeast Houston is as follows:
  • White: 24% (101,504 residents)
  • Black or African American: 26.6% (112,743 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1% (4,038 residents)
  • Asian: 7.3% (31,040 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (458 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 27.4% (115,982 residents)
  • Other: 13.7% (58,131 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 74% of the population in Southeast Houston.

How many housing units are there in Southeast Houston?

There are 171,031 housing units in Southeast Houston, 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 Southeast Houston and what is the average household size?

Southeast Houston has a total of 155,075 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Southeast Houston?

Southeast Houston has a median household income of $57,482, representing a +0.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Southeast Houston?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.8% (137,793 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.2% (53,974 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.1% (19,355 residents)
  • Private companies: 70.1% (134,372 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.5% (25,867 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.4% (12,173 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