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

Total population
20,552
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$63,240/yr
2.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
10,518
0.2% year-over-year change

Lavaca County population

How many people live in Lavaca County

Lavaca County is home to 20,552 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.1% of Lavaca County locals are male, and 50.9% are female.

Total population
20,552
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.1%
10,097
Female
50.9%
10,455
Value Percent YoY change
Male 10,097 49.1% -0.1%
Female 10,455 50.9% 0.8%
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 Lavaca County is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.1% are children under 15, then 11.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.2% of the population, while another 23.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 24.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.1%
15 to 24
11.2%
25 to 44
22.2%
45 to 64
23.5%
Over 65
24.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,922 19.1% -0.5%
15 to 24 2,291 11.2% -0.3%
25 to 44 4,562 22.2% 1.8%
45 to 64 4,827 23.5% -2.3%
Over 65 4,950 24.1% 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 Lavaca County, 95% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 74% of locals are Caucasian, 3.6% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 11.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.4%
Non-citizens
3.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 19,516 95% 1.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 294 1.4% -25.8%
Non-citizens 742 3.6% -16.2%
Racial breakdown
White
74%
Black or African American
3.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
11.6%
Other
10.3%
Value Percent
White 15,211 74%
Black or African American 749 3.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 16 0.1%
Asian 71 0.4%
Two or more races 2,391 11.6%
Other 2,114 10.3%

Households in Lavaca County

A peek inside Lavaca County households

Lavaca County has 8,476 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
8,476
1.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,838
Family households
5,638
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,838 33.5% 5.5%
Family households 5,638 66.5% -0.7%
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 Lavaca County

The housing landscape of Lavaca County

Lavaca County's housing consists of 10,518 units, with 77.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.4% 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 16.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
10,518
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 8,109 77.1%
1 unit, attached 44 0.4%
2 units 191 1.8%
3 or 4 units 174 1.6%
5 to 9 units 98 0.9%
20 to 49 units 25 0.2%
50 or more units 105 1%
Mobile home 1,720 16.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 52 0.5%
Homes built since 2020
256
37.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lavaca County

In Lavaca County, the median construction year is 1977. About 12.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 13.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,272 12.1% 4.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 791 7.5% -5.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,167 11.1% -4.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 998 9.5% -8.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,417 13.5% -1.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,388 13.2% 2.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 920 8.8% 8.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 929 8.8% -18.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,380 13.1% 17.4%
Built in 2020 or later 256 2.4% 37.6%
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.

Lavaca County occupancy rates

Out of the 8,476 occupied housing units in Lavaca County, 78.3% are owner-occupied, while 21.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 19.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,476
1.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,836
Owner occupied
6,640
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,836 21.7% -7.3%
Owner occupied 6,640 78.3% 3.9%
Unoccupied housing units
19.4%
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.

Lavaca County housing costs

Housing costs in Lavaca County come to a median of $767 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $910.

Median housing costs per month
$767/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 Lavaca County
$910/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 Lavaca County

Lavaca County education at a glance

About 44.4% of the population in Lavaca County went to high school, while 20.4% pursued college studies. Another 7.9% earned an associate degree and 15.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 898 5.7% -8.6%
High school diploma 6,974 44.4% -0.4%
College diploma 3,212 20.4% -0.3%
Associate degree 1,247 7.9% -0.6%
Bachelor's degree 2,444 15.5% 5.8%
Graduate degree 951 6% 11.5%
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 Lavaca County

How much people earn in Lavaca County

The average annual household income in Lavaca County was $86,683 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $63,240, reflecting a +2.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Lavaca County
$86,683/year
1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lavaca County
$63,240/year
2.4% year-over-year change

Lavaca County income by age

In Lavaca County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $89,335. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $87,668 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $54,404, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $44,325 in earnings. Overall, 88.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $54,404 4.9%
25 - 44 $89,335 7.8%
45 - 64 $87,668 2.1%
Over 65 $44,325 -2.7%
Above poverty level
17,719
Below poverty level
2,282
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 17,719 88.6% -2.0%
Below poverty level 2,282 11.4% 22.4%

Employment in Lavaca County

Workforce and job types in Lavaca County

The job market in Lavaca County is powered by 9,336 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 14.7% run their own businesses, 68.1% are employed by private companies, and 14.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,336
-2.1% year-over-year change
White collar
6,752
Blue collar
2,584
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,752 72.3% 1.8%
Blue collar 2,584 27.7% -11.0%
Employer type
Self employees
14.7%
Private companies
68.1%
Governmental workers
14.9%
Not for profit companies
2.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,372 14.7% 7.6%
Private companies 6,361 68.1% -1.0%
Governmental workers 1,387 14.9% -11.7%
Not for profit companies 216 2.3% -18.8%
Unemployment rate
3.0%
-0.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Lavaca County stands at 3%, 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 Lavaca County

How people get around in Lavaca County

In Lavaca County, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 88.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
26 min
5.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 8,113 88.9% -3.5%
Bicycle 8 0.1% 14.3%
Walk 87 1% -13.0%
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 Lavaca County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
77975 1,780 758 $59,786 $84,184
77984 4,800 1,917 $92,656 $119,237
77987 253 86 $83,750 $85,172
77995 10,365 4,021 $54,298 $69,765
77964 8,204 3,400 $68,056 $91,934
78956 5,243 2,084 $67,903 $78,260

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FAQs about Lavaca County demographics 

What is the total population of Lavaca County?

Lavaca County has a total population of 20,552 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 +0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Lavaca County?

The gender ratio in Lavaca County is as follows:
  • 49.1% males (10,097 residents)
  • 50.9% females (10,455 residents)

What is the median age in Lavaca County?

The median age in Lavaca County is 42.9.

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

The age distribution in Lavaca County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.1% (3,922 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.2% (2,291 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.2% (4,562 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.5% (4,827 residents)
  • Over 65: 24.1% (4,950 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lavaca County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lavaca County is as follows:
  • White: 74% (15,211 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.6% (749 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (16 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (71 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.6% (2,391 residents)
  • Other: 10.3% (2,114 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95% of the population in Lavaca County.

How many housing units are there in Lavaca County?

There are 10,518 housing units in Lavaca County, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Lavaca County has a total of 8,476 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lavaca County?

Lavaca County has a median household income of $63,240, representing a +2.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97% in Lavaca County, with a workforce of 9,336 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.3% (6,752 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.7% (2,584 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 14.7% (1,372 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.1% (6,361 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.9% (1,387 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 2.3% (216 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