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

Total population
268,638
4.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$89,097/yr
3.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
104,675
4.9% year-over-year change

Hays County population

How many people live in Hays County

Hays County is home to 268,638 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.8% of Hays County locals are male, and 50.2% are female.

Total population
268,638
4.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.8%
133,903
Female
50.2%
134,735
Value Percent YoY change
Male 133,903 49.8% 4.7%
Female 134,735 50.2% 4.8%
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 Hays County is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.5% are children under 15, then 18.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29% of the population, while another 21.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.5%
15 to 24
18.8%
25 to 44
29%
45 to 64
21.5%
Over 65
12.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 49,809 18.5% 3.6%
15 to 24 50,538 18.8% 2.8%
25 to 44 77,954 29% 6.3%
45 to 64 57,675 21.5% 4.3%
Over 65 32,662 12.2% 7.0%
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 Hays County, 88.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 60.5% of locals are Caucasian, 4.1% are African American and 2% have Asian roots. Another 0.7% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 7.6% 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
88.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.3%
Non-citizens
5.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 237,444 88.4% 4.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 16,875 6.3% 9.6%
Non-citizens 14,319 5.3% 5.8%
Racial breakdown
White
60.5%
Black or African American
4.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.7%
Asian
2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
24.9%
Other
7.6%
Value Percent
White 162,563 60.5%
Black or African American 11,062 4.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,966 0.7%
Asian 5,497 2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 375 0.1%
Two or more races 66,885 24.9%
Other 20,290 7.6%

Households in Hays County

A peek inside Hays County households

Hays County has 99,849 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 64.1% are families, while the remaining 35.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
99,849
5.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
35,813
Family households
64,036
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 35,813 35.9% 8.8%
Family households 64,036 64.1% 4.0%
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 Hays County

The housing landscape of Hays County

Hays County's housing consists of 104,675 units, with 66.3% 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 5.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
104,675
4.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 69,375 66.3%
1 unit, attached 2,718 2.6%
2 units 1,893 1.8%
3 or 4 units 2,665 2.6%
5 to 9 units 3,190 3%
10 to 19 units 6,138 5.9%
20 to 49 units 5,053 4.8%
50 or more units 7,444 7.1%
Mobile home 6,000 5.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 199 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
10,554
77.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Hays County

In Hays County, the median construction year is 2007. About 1.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 23.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 32.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 10.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,128 1.1% -6.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,254 1.2% 19.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,918 1.8% -11.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,465 2.4% -2.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 5,995 5.7% -2.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 11,224 10.7% 3.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 11,398 10.9% -5.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 24,742 23.6% -1.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 33,997 32.5% 4.2%
Built in 2020 or later 10,554 10.1% 77.7%
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.

Hays County occupancy rates

Out of the 99,849 occupied housing units in Hays County, 64.1% are owner-occupied, while 35.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
99,849
5.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
35,807
Owner occupied
64,042
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 35,807 35.9% 5.6%
Owner occupied 64,042 64.1% 5.7%
Unoccupied housing units
4.6%
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.

Hays County housing costs

Housing costs in Hays County come to a median of $1,664 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,495.

Median housing costs per month
$1,664/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 Hays County
$1,495/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 Hays County

Hays County education at a glance

About 26.4% of the population in Hays County went to high school, while 25.7% pursued college studies. Another 6.9% earned an associate degree and 24.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 12.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 7,934 3.8% 8.7%
High school diploma 55,124 26.4% 0.2%
College diploma 53,497 25.7% 2.7%
Associate degree 14,437 6.9% 12.3%
Bachelor's degree 51,064 24.5% 7.7%
Graduate degree 26,362 12.6% 10.7%
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 Hays County

How much people earn in Hays County

The average annual household income in Hays County was $117,544 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $89,097, reflecting a +3.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Hays County
$117,544/year
4.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Hays County
$89,097/year
3.8% year-over-year change

Hays County income by age

In Hays County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $102,069. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $110,161 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $32,162, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $73,773 in earnings. Overall, 87.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $32,162 3.9%
25 - 44 $102,069 2.1%
45 - 64 $110,161 5.2%
Over 65 $73,773 7.9%
Above poverty level
226,100
Below poverty level
31,193
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 226,100 87.9% 4.6%
Below poverty level 31,193 12.1% 5.8%

Employment in Hays County

Workforce and job types in Hays County

The job market in Hays County is powered by 140,594 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 81% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 19% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.5% run their own businesses, 65.7% are employed by private companies, and 18.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
140,594
5.9% year-over-year change
White collar
113,878
Blue collar
26,716
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 113,878 81% 6.8%
Blue collar 26,716 19% 2.2%
Employer type
Self employees
10.5%
Private companies
65.7%
Governmental workers
18.2%
Not for profit companies
5.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 14,760 10.5% 4.3%
Private companies 92,419 65.7% 6.0%
Governmental workers 25,578 18.2% 6.1%
Not for profit companies 7,837 5.6% 6.8%
Unemployment rate
4.4%
1.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Hays County stands at 4.4%, 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 Hays County

How people get around in Hays County

Commuting methods vary: 78.2% 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.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 108,589 78.2% 3.2%
Taxicab 220 0.2% 126.8%
Bus or trolleybus 654 0.5% 13.9%
Motorcycle 313 0.2% 41.6%
Bicycle 315 0.2% -8.7%
Walk 2,258 1.6% 0.9%
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 Hays County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
78610 48,319 17,640 $119,698 $134,365
78619 6,693 2,393 $183,393 $201,169
78620 22,860 8,276 $153,477 $195,749
78640 77,531 27,375 $90,075 $102,165
78652 5,287 1,869 $133,368 $144,009
78666 88,583 33,949 $54,737 $72,718
78676 15,822 7,005 $87,344 $120,275
78737 27,023 9,145 $168,920 $219,236

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FAQs about Hays County demographics 

What is the total population of Hays County?

Hays County has a total population of 268,638 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 +4.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Hays County?

The gender ratio in Hays County is as follows:
  • 49.8% males (133,903 residents)
  • 50.2% females (134,735 residents)

What is the median age in Hays County?

The median age in Hays County is 34.1.

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

The age distribution in Hays County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.5% (49,809 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 18.8% (50,538 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29% (77,954 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.5% (57,675 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.2% (32,662 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Hays County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Hays County is as follows:
  • White: 60.5% (162,563 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.1% (11,062 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.7% (1,966 residents)
  • Asian: 2% (5,497 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (375 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 24.9% (66,885 residents)
  • Other: 7.6% (20,290 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 88.4% of the population in Hays County.

How many housing units are there in Hays County?

There are 104,675 housing units in Hays County, reflecting a +4.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Hays County has a total of 99,849 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Hays County?

Hays County has a median household income of $89,097, representing a +3.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.6% in Hays County, with a workforce of 140,594 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81% (113,878 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 19% (26,716 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.5% (14,760 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.7% (92,419 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.2% (25,578 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.6% (7,837 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