Harris County, TX demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
4,838,303
1.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$74,983/yr
2.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,917,790
1.8% year-over-year change

Harris County population

How many people live in Harris County

Harris County is home to 4,838,303 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.7% of Harris County locals are male, and 50.3% are female.

Total population
4,838,303
1.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.7%
2,404,895
Female
50.3%
2,433,408
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,404,895 49.7% 1.6%
Female 2,433,408 50.3% 1.7%
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 Harris County is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.4% are children under 15, then 13.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30% of the population, while another 23% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.4%
15 to 24
13.9%
25 to 44
30%
45 to 64
23%
Over 65
11.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,036,503 21.4% 0.5%
15 to 24 670,600 13.9% 2.7%
25 to 44 1,450,149 30% 1.6%
45 to 64 1,113,903 23% 0.9%
Over 65 567,148 11.7% 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 Harris County, 71.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 12.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 16.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 34.4% of locals are Caucasian, 19% are African American and 7.4% have Asian roots. Another 1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 14% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 24.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
71.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
12.5%
Non-citizens
16.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 3,452,448 71.4% 1.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 603,195 12.5% 2.8%
Non-citizens 782,660 16.2% 4.0%
Racial breakdown
White
34.4%
Black or African American
19%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1%
Asian
7.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
24.1%
Other
14%
Value Percent
White 1,666,127 34.4%
Black or African American 919,291 19%
American Indian and Alaska Native 49,729 1%
Asian 355,427 7.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 4,249 0.1%
Two or more races 1,168,103 24.1%
Other 675,377 14%

Households in Harris County

A peek inside Harris County households

Harris County has 1,757,164 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 66.3% are families, while the remaining 33.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,757,164
1.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
592,784
Family households
1,164,380
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 592,784 33.7% 2.8%
Family households 1,164,380 66.3% 1.1%
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 Harris County

The housing landscape of Harris County

Harris County's housing consists of 1,917,790 units, with 56.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.8% 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 2.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,917,790
1.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,084,157 56.5%
1 unit, attached 72,316 3.8%
2 units 27,748 1.4%
3 or 4 units 69,278 3.6%
5 to 9 units 101,970 5.3%
10 to 19 units 157,902 8.2%
20 to 49 units 93,750 4.9%
50 or more units 260,602 13.6%
Mobile home 47,998 2.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 2,069 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
57,189
77.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Harris County

In Harris County, the median construction year is 1988. About 2.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 15.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 48,871 2.6% -1.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 49,946 2.6% 0.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 125,429 6.5% -1.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 167,913 8.8% -1.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 318,740 16.6% -0.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 292,528 15.2% -0.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 214,933 11.2% -2.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 342,090 17.8% 2.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 300,151 15.6% 4.7%
Built in 2020 or later 57,189 3% 77.3%
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.

Harris County occupancy rates

Out of the 1,757,164 occupied housing units in Harris County, 54.7% are owner-occupied, while 45.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,757,164
1.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
795,727
Owner occupied
961,437
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 795,727 45.3% 1.8%
Owner occupied 961,437 54.7% 1.6%
Unoccupied housing units
8.4%
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.

Harris County housing costs

Housing costs in Harris County come to a median of $1,448 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,401.

Median housing costs per month
$1,448/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 Harris County
$1,401/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 Harris County

Harris County education at a glance

About 32.4% of the population in Harris County went to high school, while 19.8% pursued college studies. Another 7% earned an associate degree and 19.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 339,352 9.5% 2.0%
High school diploma 1,161,673 32.4% 2.5%
College diploma 708,924 19.8% -0.5%
Associate degree 249,485 7% 0.1%
Bachelor's degree 709,205 19.8% 2.7%
Graduate degree 416,593 11.6% 5.0%
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 Harris County

How much people earn in Harris County

The average annual household income in Harris County was $111,429 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $74,983, reflecting a +2.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Harris County
$111,429/year
2.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Harris County
$74,983/year
2.6% year-over-year change

Harris County income by age

In Harris County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $76,912. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $88,972 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $42,441, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $58,641 in earnings. Overall, 83.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $42,441 1.6%
25 - 44 $76,912 2.7%
45 - 64 $88,972 3.4%
Over 65 $58,641 1.9%
Above poverty level
3,963,722
Below poverty level
762,953
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,963,722 83.9% 1.3%
Below poverty level 762,953 16.1% 3.8%

Employment in Harris County

Workforce and job types in Harris County

The job market in Harris County is powered by 2,343,196 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.6% run their own businesses, 71.8% are employed by private companies, and 11.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,343,196
1.6% year-over-year change
White collar
1,774,350
Blue collar
568,846
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,774,350 75.7% 1.9%
Blue collar 568,846 24.3% 0.6%
Employer type
Self employees
10.6%
Private companies
71.8%
Governmental workers
11.5%
Not for profit companies
6.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 248,942 10.6% 4.2%
Private companies 1,681,447 71.8% 0.9%
Governmental workers 268,615 11.5% 2.4%
Not for profit companies 144,192 6.2% 4.1%
Unemployment rate
6.7%
6.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Harris County stands at 6.7%, 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 Harris County

How people get around in Harris County

In Harris County, the average commute time is 29 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 81% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
29 min
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,860,445 81% -0.3%
Taxicab 7,126 0.3% 41.6%
Bus or trolleybus 42,650 1.9% -0.9%
Subway or elevated 1,048 0% N/A
Railroad 469 0% -27.5%
Ferryboat 31 0% -53.0%
Motorcycle 1,705 0.1% -2.2%
Bicycle 6,872 0.3% 14.6%
Walk 32,867 1.4% 6.8%
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 Harris County 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
77011 14,940 6,009 $50,133 $61,829

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FAQs about Harris County demographics 

What is the total population of Harris County?

Harris County has a total population of 4,838,303 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 +1.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Harris County?

The gender ratio in Harris County is as follows:
  • 49.7% males (2,404,895 residents)
  • 50.3% females (2,433,408 residents)

What is the median age in Harris County?

The median age in Harris County is 34.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Harris County?

The age distribution in Harris County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.4% (1,036,503 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.9% (670,600 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30% (1,450,149 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23% (1,113,903 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.7% (567,148 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Harris County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Harris County is as follows:
  • White: 34.4% (1,666,127 residents)
  • Black or African American: 19% (919,291 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1% (49,729 residents)
  • Asian: 7.4% (355,427 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (4,249 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 24.1% (1,168,103 residents)
  • Other: 14% (675,377 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 71.4% of the population in Harris County.

How many housing units are there in Harris County?

There are 1,917,790 housing units in Harris County, reflecting a +1.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Harris County has a total of 1,757,164 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Harris County?

Harris County has a median household income of $74,983, representing a +2.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Harris County?

The employment rate is 93.3% in Harris County, with a workforce of 2,343,196 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.7% (1,774,350 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.3% (568,846 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.6% (248,942 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.8% (1,681,447 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.5% (268,615 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.2% (144,192 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