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

Total population
14,968
1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,214/yr
1.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,975
1.4% year-over-year change

Karnes County population

How many people live in Karnes County

Karnes County is home to 14,968 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 58.7% of Karnes County locals are male, and 41.3% are female.

Total population
14,968
1.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
58.7%
8,792
Female
41.3%
6,176
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,792 58.7% 3.6%
Female 6,176 41.3% -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 Karnes County is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.9% are children under 15, then 12.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 34.1% of the population, while another 22.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.9%
15 to 24
12.7%
25 to 44
34.1%
45 to 64
22.1%
Over 65
15.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,384 15.9% -2.6%
15 to 24 1,899 12.7% 1.2%
25 to 44 5,109 34.1% 0.7%
45 to 64 3,308 22.1% 2.9%
Over 65 2,268 15.2% 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 Karnes County, 95.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 51% of locals are Caucasian, 9.5% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 28.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.5%
Non-citizens
2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 14,297 95.5% 4.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 377 2.5% -14.7%
Non-citizens 294 2% -57.1%
Racial breakdown
White
51%
Black or African American
9.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
28.4%
Other
10.6%
Value Percent
White 7,630 51%
Black or African American 1,424 9.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 28 0.2%
Asian 45 0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 7 0%
Two or more races 4,253 28.4%
Other 1,581 10.6%

Households in Karnes County

A peek inside Karnes County households

Karnes County has 4,730 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 66.5% are families, while the remaining 33.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,730
1.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,584
Family households
3,146
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,584 33.5% -0.6%
Family households 3,146 66.5% 3.1%
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 Karnes County

The housing landscape of Karnes County

Karnes County's housing consists of 5,975 units, with 65.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.7% 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 15.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,975
1.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,911 65.5%
1 unit, attached 103 1.7%
2 units 319 5.3%
3 or 4 units 326 5.5%
5 to 9 units 190 3.2%
10 to 19 units 70 1.2%
50 or more units 88 1.5%
Mobile home 922 15.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 46 0.8%
Homes built since 2020
101
248.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Karnes County

In Karnes County, the median construction year is 1988. About 8.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 16.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 501 8.4% -19.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 355 5.9% 10.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 555 9.3% 30.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 234 3.9% -49.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 768 12.8% -19.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 729 12.2% -0.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 844 14.1% 7.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 903 15.1% 35.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 985 16.5% 9.0%
Built in 2020 or later 101 1.7% 248.3%
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.

Karnes County occupancy rates

Out of the 4,730 occupied housing units in Karnes County, 62.4% are owner-occupied, while 37.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 20.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,730
1.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,777
Owner occupied
2,953
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,777 37.6% 10.4%
Owner occupied 2,953 62.4% -2.6%
Unoccupied housing units
20.8%
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.

Karnes County housing costs

Housing costs in Karnes County come to a median of $762 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $957.

Median housing costs per month
$762/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 Karnes 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 Karnes County

Karnes County education at a glance

About 56.7% of the population in Karnes County went to high school, while 17.2% pursued college studies. Another 7.2% earned an associate degree and 8.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 656 5.4% -23.8%
High school diploma 6,841 56.7% 7.9%
College diploma 2,080 17.2% 3.6%
Associate degree 871 7.2% 6.5%
Bachelor's degree 1,077 8.9% -12.9%
Graduate degree 535 4.4% -6.8%
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 Karnes County

How much people earn in Karnes County

The average annual household income in Karnes County was $95,318 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $60,214, reflecting a +1.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Karnes County
$95,318/year
7.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Karnes County
$60,214/year
1.9% year-over-year change

Karnes County income by age

In Karnes County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $87,727. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $76,250 overall. Overall, 81.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $87,727 37.1%
45 - 64 $76,250 -7.6%
Over 65 $36,591 -14.2%
Above poverty level
9,230
Below poverty level
2,083
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 9,230 81.6% 4.6%
Below poverty level 2,083 18.4% -8.5%

Employment in Karnes County

Workforce and job types in Karnes County

The job market in Karnes County is powered by 5,347 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 77% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.3% run their own businesses, 56.7% are employed by private companies, and 27.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,347
5.7% year-over-year change
White collar
4,115
Blue collar
1,232
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,115 77% 9.6%
Blue collar 1,232 23% -5.5%
Employer type
Self employees
12.3%
Private companies
56.7%
Governmental workers
27.3%
Not for profit companies
3.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 658 12.3% -1.1%
Private companies 3,030 56.7% 2.5%
Governmental workers 1,462 27.3% 23.0%
Not for profit companies 197 3.7% -21.2%
Unemployment rate
2.9%
-33.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Karnes County stands at 2.9%, 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 Karnes County

How people get around in Karnes County

In Karnes County, the average commute time is 21 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 86.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.7% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
21 min
3.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 4,515 86.9% -0.9%
Motorcycle 2 0% N/A
Bicycle 57 1.1% 96.5%
Walk 244 4.7% 80.7%
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 Karnes County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
78113 3,026 1,137 $78,505 $129,400
78116 226 94 $88,700 $133,468
78117 661 292 $0 $110,345
78118 4,676 1,525 $60,711 $99,957
78119 7,270 1,944 $62,738 $79,448
78141 868 396 $43,553 $83,364
78144 47 29 $0 $0
78151 1,378 628 $26,597 $64,120

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FAQs about Karnes County demographics 

What is the total population of Karnes County?

Karnes County has a total population of 14,968 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 +1.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Karnes County?

The gender ratio in Karnes County is as follows:
  • 58.7% males (8,792 residents)
  • 41.3% females (6,176 residents)

What is the median age in Karnes County?

The median age in Karnes County is 38.1.

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

The age distribution in Karnes County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.9% (2,384 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.7% (1,899 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 34.1% (5,109 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.1% (3,308 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.2% (2,268 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Karnes County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Karnes County is as follows:
  • White: 51% (7,630 residents)
  • Black or African American: 9.5% (1,424 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (28 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (45 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (7 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 28.4% (4,253 residents)
  • Other: 10.6% (1,581 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.5% of the population in Karnes County.

How many housing units are there in Karnes County?

There are 5,975 housing units in Karnes County, reflecting a +1.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Karnes County has a total of 4,730 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Karnes County?

Karnes County has a median household income of $60,214, representing a +1.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97.1% in Karnes County, with a workforce of 5,347 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 77% (4,115 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23% (1,232 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.3% (658 residents)
  • Private companies: 56.7% (3,030 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 27.3% (1,462 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 3.7% (197 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