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

Total population
891,977
1.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,338/yr
3.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
308,556
2.1% year-over-year change

Hidalgo County population

How many people live in Hidalgo County

Hidalgo County is home to 891,977 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.4% of Hidalgo County locals are male, and 50.6% are female.

Total population
891,977
1.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.4%
440,466
Female
50.6%
451,511
Value Percent YoY change
Male 440,466 49.4% 1.3%
Female 451,511 50.6% 1.2%
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 Hidalgo County is 30, with the population distributed as follows: about 25.6% are children under 15, then 16.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.9% of the population, while another 20.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
30.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
25.6%
15 to 24
16.6%
25 to 44
25.9%
45 to 64
20.2%
Over 65
11.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 228,258 25.6% -0.3%
15 to 24 147,718 16.6% 1.5%
25 to 44 231,356 25.9% 1.2%
45 to 64 180,110 20.2% 2.1%
Over 65 104,535 11.7% 3.0%
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 Hidalgo County, 72.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 9.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 17.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 27.8% of locals are Caucasian, 0.7% are African American and 1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 59.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
72.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
9.5%
Non-citizens
17.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 648,844 72.7% 1.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 84,827 9.5% 1.1%
Non-citizens 158,306 17.8% 1.1%
Racial breakdown
White
27.8%
Black or African American
0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
59.3%
Other
10.8%
Value Percent
White 247,551 27.8%
Black or African American 6,207 0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 3,751 0.4%
Asian 9,202 1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 301 0%
Two or more races 528,958 59.3%
Other 96,007 10.8%

Households in Hidalgo County

A peek inside Hidalgo County households

Hidalgo County has 270,210 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 77.5% are families, while the remaining 22.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
270,210
2.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
60,912
Family households
209,298
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 60,912 22.5% 5.8%
Family households 209,298 77.5% 1.3%
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 Hidalgo County

The housing landscape of Hidalgo County

Hidalgo County's housing consists of 308,556 units, with 64.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.8% 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 13.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
308,556
2.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 200,224 64.9%
1 unit, attached 5,699 1.8%
2 units 14,256 4.6%
3 or 4 units 17,570 5.7%
5 to 9 units 9,251 3%
10 to 19 units 8,356 2.7%
20 to 49 units 4,064 1.3%
50 or more units 4,648 1.5%
Mobile home 42,865 13.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 1,623 0.5%
Homes built since 2020
9,120
93.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Hidalgo County

In Hidalgo County, the median construction year is 2000. About 1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 26.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 19.4% 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 3,021 1% -7.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 3,275 1.1% -1.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 6,952 2.2% 8.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 11,634 3.8% -1.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 29,778 9.6% 1.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 46,235 15% -2.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 55,888 18.1% -2.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 82,880 26.9% -1.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 59,773 19.4% 9.8%
Built in 2020 or later 9,120 3% 93.5%
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.

Hidalgo County occupancy rates

Out of the 270,210 occupied housing units in Hidalgo County, 67.5% are owner-occupied, while 32.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
270,210
2.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
87,939
Owner occupied
182,271
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 87,939 32.5% 2.7%
Owner occupied 182,271 67.5% 2.1%
Unoccupied housing units
12.4%
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.

Hidalgo County housing costs

Housing costs in Hidalgo County come to a median of $831 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $957.

Median housing costs per month
$831/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 Hidalgo County
$957/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 Hidalgo County

Hidalgo County education at a glance

About 40.1% of the population in Hidalgo County went to high school, while 20.5% pursued college studies. Another 6% earned an associate degree and 12.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 92,334 15% -0.1%
High school diploma 247,005 40.1% 3.5%
College diploma 126,021 20.5% -1.4%
Associate degree 37,236 6% 3.0%
Bachelor's degree 78,473 12.7% 2.8%
Graduate degree 34,663 5.6% 5.6%
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 Hidalgo County

How much people earn in Hidalgo County

The average annual household income in Hidalgo County was $74,303 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $54,338, reflecting a +3.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Hidalgo County
$74,303/year
3.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Hidalgo County
$54,338/year
3.9% year-over-year change

Hidalgo County income by age

In Hidalgo County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $60,754. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $63,469 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $32,224, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $35,326 in earnings. Overall, 73.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $32,224 2.9%
25 - 44 $60,754 5.2%
45 - 64 $63,469 4.7%
Over 65 $35,326 0.6%
Above poverty level
638,688
Below poverty level
231,178
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 638,688 73.4% 2.0%
Below poverty level 231,178 26.6% -0.7%

Employment in Hidalgo County

Workforce and job types in Hidalgo County

The job market in Hidalgo County is powered by 353,316 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 14.1% run their own businesses, 65.2% are employed by private companies, and 16.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
353,316
2.6% year-over-year change
White collar
257,045
Blue collar
96,271
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 257,045 72.8% 2.1%
Blue collar 96,271 27.2% 3.9%
Employer type
Self employees
14.1%
Private companies
65.2%
Governmental workers
16.8%
Not for profit companies
3.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 49,745 14.1% 1.4%
Private companies 230,382 65.2% 2.5%
Governmental workers 59,477 16.8% 3.5%
Not for profit companies 13,712 3.9% 4.7%
Unemployment rate
7.6%
3.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Hidalgo County stands at 7.6%, 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 Hidalgo County

How people get around in Hidalgo County

Commuting methods vary: 85.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.2% 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 295,926 85.7% 2.0%
Taxicab 236 0.1% 46.6%
Bus or trolleybus 748 0.2% 14.7%
Subway or elevated 14 0% N/A
Railroad 57 0% -55.1%
Motorcycle 136 0% 119.3%
Bicycle 389 0.1% -20.6%
Walk 3,988 1.2% -1.3%
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 Hidalgo County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
78501 58,935 21,734 $48,071 $67,735
78503 22,621 7,247 $53,322 $85,573
78504 63,094 19,697 $81,905 $114,990
78516 34,370 10,045 $53,229 $65,716
78537 51,426 13,909 $40,668 $55,522
78538 11,982 3,556 $40,399 $55,612
78539 37,168 14,171 $66,967 $96,076
78541 51,710 16,679 $52,863 $71,492
78542 89,401 23,943 $55,243 $69,594
78543 8,400 2,834 $44,527 $59,922

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FAQs about Hidalgo County demographics 

What is the total population of Hidalgo County?

Hidalgo County has a total population of 891,977 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 +1.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Hidalgo County?

The gender ratio in Hidalgo County is as follows:
  • 49.4% males (440,466 residents)
  • 50.6% females (451,511 residents)

What is the median age in Hidalgo County?

The median age in Hidalgo County is 30.5.

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

The age distribution in Hidalgo County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 25.6% (228,258 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16.6% (147,718 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.9% (231,356 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.2% (180,110 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.7% (104,535 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Hidalgo County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Hidalgo County is as follows:
  • White: 27.8% (247,551 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.7% (6,207 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (3,751 residents)
  • Asian: 1% (9,202 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (301 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 59.3% (528,958 residents)
  • Other: 10.8% (96,007 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 72.7% of the population in Hidalgo County.

How many housing units are there in Hidalgo County?

There are 308,556 housing units in Hidalgo County, reflecting a +2.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Hidalgo County has a total of 270,210 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Hidalgo County?

Hidalgo County has a median household income of $54,338, representing a +3.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 92.4% in Hidalgo County, with a workforce of 353,316 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.8% (257,045 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.2% (96,271 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 14.1% (49,745 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.2% (230,382 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.8% (59,477 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 3.9% (13,712 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