Jim Wells County, TX demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
38,850
-0.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$51,896/yr
9.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
16,229
0.1% year-over-year change

Jim Wells County population

How many people live in Jim Wells County

Jim Wells County is home to 38,850 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.9% of Jim Wells County locals are male, and 50.1% are female.

Total population
38,850
-0.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.9%
19,375
Female
50.1%
19,475
Value Percent YoY change
Male 19,375 49.9% 0.0%
Female 19,475 50.1% -0.1%
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 Jim Wells County is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 22.3% are children under 15, then 13.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.7% of the population, while another 21.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
22.3%
15 to 24
13.9%
25 to 44
25.7%
45 to 64
21.9%
Over 65
16.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 8,666 22.3% -1.5%
15 to 24 5,404 13.9% 0.9%
25 to 44 9,968 25.7% 0.8%
45 to 64 8,493 21.9% -2.0%
Over 65 6,319 16.3% 2.8%
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 Jim Wells County, 94.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 68% of locals are Caucasian, 1.4% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. Another 0.5% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 6.7% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 22.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.3%
Non-citizens
2.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 36,737 94.6% -0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,271 3.3% 2.5%
Non-citizens 842 2.2% 13.9%
Racial breakdown
White
68%
Black or African American
1.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
22.8%
Other
6.7%
Value Percent
White 26,412 68%
Black or African American 548 1.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 204 0.5%
Asian 197 0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 48 0.1%
Two or more races 8,843 22.8%
Other 2,598 6.7%

Households in Jim Wells County

A peek inside Jim Wells County households

Jim Wells County has 13,279 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 76% are families, while the remaining 24% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
13,279
-0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
3,183
Family households
10,096
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,183 24% -3.5%
Family households 10,096 76% 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 Jim Wells County

The housing landscape of Jim Wells County

Jim Wells County's housing consists of 16,229 units, with 73.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.6% 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 15.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
16,229
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 11,862 73.1%
1 unit, attached 98 0.6%
2 units 196 1.2%
3 or 4 units 669 4.1%
5 to 9 units 640 3.9%
10 to 19 units 102 0.6%
20 to 49 units 37 0.2%
50 or more units 118 0.7%
Mobile home 2,450 15.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 57 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
539
85.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Jim Wells County

In Jim Wells County, the median construction year is 1981. About 4.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 11.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 3.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 712 4.4% -24.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 509 3.1% -19.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,776 10.9% 9.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,824 11.2% 4.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,045 18.8% 2.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,926 11.9% -9.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,232 13.8% -4.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,821 11.2% -0.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,845 11.4% 8.8%
Built in 2020 or later 539 3.3% 85.9%
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.

Jim Wells County occupancy rates

Out of the 13,279 occupied housing units in Jim Wells County, 68.4% are owner-occupied, while 31.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 18.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
13,279
-0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,189
Owner occupied
9,090
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,189 31.6% -3.2%
Owner occupied 9,090 68.4% 1.3%
Unoccupied housing units
18.2%
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.

Jim Wells County housing costs

Housing costs in Jim Wells County come to a median of $851 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $938.

Median housing costs per month
$851/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 Jim Wells County
$938/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 Jim Wells County

Jim Wells County education at a glance

About 51.6% of the population in Jim Wells County went to high school, while 20.1% pursued college studies. Another 6.6% earned an associate degree and 10.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,996 7.1% 2.2%
High school diploma 14,573 51.6% -2.5%
College diploma 5,682 20.1% -2.6%
Associate degree 1,860 6.6% 11.4%
Bachelor's degree 2,943 10.4% 2.9%
Graduate degree 1,187 4.2% 23.5%
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 Jim Wells County

How much people earn in Jim Wells County

The average annual household income in Jim Wells County was $71,948 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $51,896, reflecting a +9.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Jim Wells County
$71,948/year
2.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Jim Wells County
$51,896/year
9.3% year-over-year change

Jim Wells County income by age

In Jim Wells County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $60,666. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $58,586 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $32,587, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $46,653 in earnings. Overall, 75.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $32,587 47.1%
25 - 44 $60,666 12.5%
45 - 64 $58,586 -2.4%
Over 65 $46,653 4.3%
Above poverty level
28,758
Below poverty level
9,356
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 28,758 75.4% -1.6%
Below poverty level 9,356 24.6% 6.4%

Employment in Jim Wells County

Workforce and job types in Jim Wells County

The job market in Jim Wells County is powered by 15,388 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.9% run their own businesses, 71.5% are employed by private companies, and 13.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
15,388
0.7% year-over-year change
White collar
10,861
Blue collar
4,527
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 10,861 70.6% 0.2%
Blue collar 4,527 29.4% 1.8%
Employer type
Self employees
10.9%
Private companies
71.5%
Governmental workers
13.6%
Not for profit companies
4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,675 10.9% -3.4%
Private companies 11,004 71.5% 4.2%
Governmental workers 2,097 13.6% -13.6%
Not for profit companies 612 4% 10.3%
Unemployment rate
6.1%
10.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Jim Wells County stands at 6.1%, 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 Jim Wells County

How people get around in Jim Wells County

In Jim Wells County, the average commute time is 24 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 89.4% 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
24 min
-2.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 13,648 89.4% 3.4%
Motorcycle 11 0.1% -8.3%
Walk 243 1.6% 10.4%
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 Jim Wells County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
78332 27,042 8,946 $49,887 $69,142
78342 399 145 $40,739 $48,431
78355 6,772 2,913 $48,828 $72,126
78372 5,383 2,018 $52,237 $71,559
78375 2,754 1,042 $47,941 $51,149
78383 4,081 1,529 $102,135 $118,778

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FAQs about Jim Wells County demographics 

What is the total population of Jim Wells County?

Jim Wells County has a total population of 38,850 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 -0.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Jim Wells County?

The gender ratio in Jim Wells County is as follows:
  • 49.9% males (19,375 residents)
  • 50.1% females (19,475 residents)

What is the median age in Jim Wells County?

The median age in Jim Wells County is 35.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Jim Wells County?

The age distribution in Jim Wells County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 22.3% (8,666 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.9% (5,404 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.7% (9,968 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.9% (8,493 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.3% (6,319 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Jim Wells County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Jim Wells County is as follows:
  • White: 68% (26,412 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.4% (548 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (204 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (197 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (48 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 22.8% (8,843 residents)
  • Other: 6.7% (2,598 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.6% of the population in Jim Wells County.

How many housing units are there in Jim Wells County?

There are 16,229 housing units in Jim Wells County, reflecting a +0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Jim Wells County has a total of 13,279 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Jim Wells County?

Jim Wells County has a median household income of $51,896, representing a +9.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.9% in Jim Wells County, with a workforce of 15,388 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.6% (10,861 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.4% (4,527 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.9% (1,675 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.5% (11,004 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.6% (2,097 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4% (612 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