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

Total population
508,461
1.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,897/yr
1.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
229,085
1.1% year-over-year change

Southwest Houston population

How many people live in Southwest Houston

Southwest Houston is home to 508,461 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.7% of Southwest Houston locals are male, and 51.3% are female.

Total population
508,461
1.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.7%
247,489
Female
51.3%
260,973
Value Percent YoY change
Male 247,489 48.7% 0.5%
Female 260,973 51.3% 2.5%
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 Southwest Houston is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 20% are children under 15, then 13.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 33% of the population, while another 21.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
35
Age breakdown
Under 15
20%
15 to 24
13.2%
25 to 44
33%
45 to 64
21.6%
Over 65
12.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 101,610 20% 1.3%
15 to 24 67,232 13.2% 1.9%
25 to 44 167,735 33% 1.4%
45 to 64 109,640 21.6% 0.2%
Over 65 62,243 12.2% 4.4%
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 Southwest Houston, 61.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 11.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 27.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 24.4% of locals are Caucasian, 23.1% are African American and 7.5% have Asian roots. Another 1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 19% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 24.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
61.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
11.4%
Non-citizens
27.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 311,147 61.2% 1.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 57,698 11.4% -2.7%
Non-citizens 139,616 27.5% 3.0%
Racial breakdown
White
24.4%
Black or African American
23.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1%
Asian
7.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
24.9%
Other
19%
Value Percent
White 123,852 24.4%
Black or African American 117,560 23.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 5,265 1%
Asian 38,165 7.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 519 0.1%
Two or more races 126,415 24.9%
Other 96,685 19%

Households in Southwest Houston

A peek inside Southwest Houston households

Southwest Houston has 205,590 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 57.4% are families, while the remaining 42.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
205,590
1.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
87,573
Family households
118,018
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 87,573 42.6% 3.5%
Family households 118,018 57.4% 0.7%
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 Southwest Houston

The housing landscape of Southwest Houston

Southwest Houston's housing consists of 229,085 units, with 33.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.6% 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 0.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
229,085
1.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 77,132 33.7%
1 unit, attached 10,550 4.6%
2 units 3,469 1.5%
3 or 4 units 12,549 5.5%
5 to 9 units 20,938 9.1%
10 to 19 units 28,491 12.4%
20 to 49 units 18,226 8%
50 or more units 55,429 24.2%
Mobile home 2,157 0.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 144 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
1,966
82.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Southwest Houston

In Southwest Houston, the median construction year is 1979. About 1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,327 1% -0.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,775 0.8% 9.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 17,811 7.8% 2.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 37,643 16.4% -3.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 63,700 27.8% -0.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 36,693 16% 2.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 19,076 8.3% -2.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 27,501 12% 3.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 20,594 9% 7.9%
Built in 2020 or later 1,966 0.9% 82.4%
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.

Southwest Houston occupancy rates

Out of the 205,590 occupied housing units in Southwest Houston, 35.6% are owner-occupied, while 64.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
205,590
1.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
132,356
Owner occupied
73,234
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 132,356 64.4% 1.0%
Owner occupied 73,234 35.6% 3.3%
Unoccupied housing units
10.3%
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.

Southwest Houston housing costs

Housing costs in Southwest Houston come to a median of $1,320 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,353.

Median housing costs per month
$1,320/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 Southwest Houston
$1,353/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 Southwest Houston

Southwest Houston education at a glance

About 30.5% of the population in Southwest Houston went to high school, while 16.1% pursued college studies. Another 5% earned an associate degree and 19.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 12.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 65,395 16.8% 1.8%
High school diploma 118,805 30.5% 4.7%
College diploma 62,786 16.1% -4.0%
Associate degree 19,339 5% -4.1%
Bachelor's degree 75,156 19.3% 3.0%
Graduate degree 48,284 12.4% 1.2%
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 Southwest Houston

How much people earn in Southwest Houston

The average annual household income in Southwest Houston was $90,365 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $60,897, reflecting a +1.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Southwest Houston
$90,365/year
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Southwest Houston
$60,897/year
1.3% year-over-year change

Southwest Houston income by age

In Southwest Houston, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $65,250. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $71,552 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $38,234, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $51,864 in earnings. Overall, 78.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $38,234 14.9%
25 - 44 $65,250 2.1%
45 - 64 $71,552 5.8%
Over 65 $51,864 -3.7%
Above poverty level
393,382
Below poverty level
105,435
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 393,382 78.9% 1.3%
Below poverty level 105,435 21.1% 2.4%

Employment in Southwest Houston

Workforce and job types in Southwest Houston

73.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.8% run their own businesses, 73.9% are employed by private companies, and 9.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
189,285
Blue collar
68,819
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 189,285 73.3% 2.3%
Blue collar 68,819 26.7% -0.6%
Employer type
Self employees
9.8%
Private companies
73.9%
Governmental workers
9.3%
Not for profit companies
7.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 25,245 9.8% -1.7%
Private companies 190,751 73.9% 1.3%
Governmental workers 23,898 9.3% 3.6%
Not for profit companies 18,211 7.1% 6.3%

Transportation in Southwest Houston

How people get around in Southwest Houston

In Southwest Houston, the average commute time is 199 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 91% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
199 min
4.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 194,001 91% 0.3%
Taxicab 1,487 0.7% 65.4%
Bus or trolleybus 11,116 5.2% -4.9%
Railroad 24 0% -4.0%
Motorcycle 172 0.1% 11.0%
Bicycle 1,338 0.6% 9.6%
Walk 4,930 2.3% 3.5%
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 Southwest Houston by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
77024 38,288 16,413 $136,149 $266,192
77025 29,715 14,461 $81,008 $161,273
77031 15,179 5,672 $47,162 $69,557
77035 36,019 14,497 $58,686 $84,846
77036 71,770 26,855 $45,716 $57,829
77045 33,563 10,717 $59,688 $74,955
77047 34,987 12,934 $78,538 $99,553
77051 19,795 6,953 $37,415 $52,727
77053 30,198 9,756 $66,510 $77,710
77054 28,272 16,926 $62,106 $71,342

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FAQs about Southwest Houston demographics 

What is the total population of Southwest Houston?

Southwest Houston has a total population of 508,461 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 +1.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Southwest Houston?

The gender ratio in Southwest Houston is as follows:
  • 48.7% males (247,489 residents)
  • 51.3% females (260,973 residents)

What is the median age in Southwest Houston?

The median age in Southwest Houston is 35.

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

The age distribution in Southwest Houston is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20% (101,610 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.2% (67,232 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 33% (167,735 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.6% (109,640 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.2% (62,243 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Southwest Houston?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Southwest Houston is as follows:
  • White: 24.4% (123,852 residents)
  • Black or African American: 23.1% (117,560 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1% (5,265 residents)
  • Asian: 7.5% (38,165 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (519 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 24.9% (126,415 residents)
  • Other: 19% (96,685 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 61.2% of the population in Southwest Houston.

How many housing units are there in Southwest Houston?

There are 229,085 housing units in Southwest Houston, reflecting a +1.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Southwest Houston has a total of 205,590 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Southwest Houston?

Southwest Houston has a median household income of $60,897, representing a +1.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Southwest Houston?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.3% (189,285 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.7% (68,819 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.8% (25,245 residents)
  • Private companies: 73.9% (190,751 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.3% (23,898 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.1% (18,211 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