Lower Rio Grande Valley, TX demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
1,274,633
% year-over-year change
Median household income
$52,863/yr
% year-over-year change
Housing units
450,364
% year-over-year change

Lower Rio Grande Valley population

How many people live in Lower Rio Grande Valley

Lower Rio Grande Valley is home to 1,274,633 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.4% of Lower Rio Grande Valley locals are male, and 50.6% are female.

Total population
1,274,633
% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.4%
630,360
Female
50.6%
644,273
Value Percent YoY change
Male 630,360 49.4% N/A
Female 644,273 50.6% N/A
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 Lower Rio Grande Valley is 32, with the population distributed as follows: about 24.8% are children under 15, then 16.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.6% of the population, while another 20.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
32.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
24.8%
15 to 24
16.4%
25 to 44
25.6%
45 to 64
20.6%
Over 65
12.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 315,982 24.8% N/A
15 to 24 208,701 16.4% N/A
25 to 44 326,646 25.6% N/A
45 to 64 262,454 20.6% N/A
Over 65 160,850 12.6% N/A
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 Lower Rio Grande Valley, 73.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 9.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 16.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 30.1% of locals are Caucasian, 0.7% are African American and 1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 57.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
73.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
9.7%
Non-citizens
16.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 941,092 73.8% N/A
Non-U.S.-born citizens 123,545 9.7% N/A
Non-citizens 209,995 16.5% N/A
Racial breakdown
White
30.1%
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
57.3%
Other
10.5%
Value Percent
White 384,007 30.1%
Black or African American 8,469 0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 5,593 0.4%
Asian 12,394 1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 526 0%
Two or more races 730,209 57.3%
Other 133,434 10.5%

Households in Lower Rio Grande Valley

A peek inside Lower Rio Grande Valley households

Lower Rio Grande Valley has 395,136 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 76.8% are families, while the remaining 23.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
395,136
% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
91,795
Family households
303,341
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 91,795 23.2% N/A
Family households 303,341 76.8% N/A
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 Lower Rio Grande Valley

The housing landscape of Lower Rio Grande Valley

Lower Rio Grande Valley's housing consists of 450,364 units, with 65.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.2% 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 12.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
450,364
% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 295,241 65.6%
1 unit, attached 9,838 2.2%
2 units 18,431 4.1%
3 or 4 units 24,253 5.4%
5 to 9 units 13,549 3%
10 to 19 units 11,476 2.6%
20 to 49 units 6,324 1.4%
50 or more units 10,814 2.4%
Mobile home 58,293 12.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 2,144 0.5%
Homes built since 2020
12,596
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lower Rio Grande Valley

In Lower Rio Grande Valley, the median construction year is 1995. About 1.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 24.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 17.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 6,336 1.4% N/A
Built between 1940 and 1949 7,181 1.6% N/A
Built between 1950 and 1959 15,087 3.4% N/A
Built between 1960 and 1969 20,637 4.6% N/A
Built between 1970 and 1979 50,067 11.1% N/A
Built between 1980 and 1989 68,315 15.2% N/A
Built between 1990 and 1999 78,890 17.5% N/A
Built between 2000 and 2009 111,975 24.9% N/A
Built between 2010 and 2019 79,280 17.6% N/A
Built in 2020 or later 12,596 2.8% N/A
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.

Lower Rio Grande Valley occupancy rates

Out of the 395,136 occupied housing units in Lower Rio Grande Valley, 66.8% are owner-occupied, while 33.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
395,136
% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
131,261
Owner occupied
263,875
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 131,261 33.2% N/A
Owner occupied 263,875 66.8% N/A
Unoccupied housing units
12.3%
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.

Lower Rio Grande Valley housing costs

Housing costs in Lower Rio Grande Valley come to a median of $758 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $890.

Median housing costs per month
$758/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 Lower Rio Grande Valley
$890/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 Lower Rio Grande Valley

Lower Rio Grande Valley education at a glance

About 40.1% of the population in Lower Rio Grande Valley went to high school, while 20.1% pursued college studies. Another 6.5% earned an associate degree and 13% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 129,091 14.5% N/A
High school diploma 357,220 40.1% N/A
College diploma 179,234 20.1% N/A
Associate degree 58,202 6.5% N/A
Bachelor's degree 116,178 13% N/A
Graduate degree 51,217 5.8% N/A
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 Lower Rio Grande Valley

How much people earn in Lower Rio Grande Valley

The average annual household income in Lower Rio Grande Valley was $68,777 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Average household income in Lower Rio Grande Valley
$68,777/year
% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lower Rio Grande Valley
$52,863/year
% year-over-year change

Lower Rio Grande Valley income by age

In Lower Rio Grande Valley, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $60,747. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $62,453 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $34,697, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $32,060 in earnings. Overall, 74.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $34,697 N/A
25 - 44 $60,747 N/A
45 - 64 $62,453 N/A
Over 65 $32,060 N/A
Above poverty level
921,067
Below poverty level
322,083
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 921,067 74.1% N/A
Below poverty level 322,083 25.9% N/A

Employment in Lower Rio Grande Valley

Workforce and job types in Lower Rio Grande Valley

73.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.3% run their own businesses, 64.8% are employed by private companies, and 17.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
376,691
Blue collar
133,137
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 376,691 73.9% N/A
Blue collar 133,137 26.1% N/A
Employer type
Self employees
13.3%
Private companies
64.8%
Governmental workers
17.6%
Not for profit companies
4.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 67,922 13.3% N/A
Private companies 330,157 64.8% N/A
Governmental workers 89,756 17.6% N/A
Not for profit companies 21,994 4.3% N/A

Transportation in Lower Rio Grande Valley

How people get around in Lower Rio Grande Valley

In Lower Rio Grande Valley, the average commute time is 362 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 98% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
362 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 432,635 98% N/A
Taxicab 363 0.1% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 1,295 0.3% N/A
Railroad 63 0% N/A
Ferryboat 28 0% N/A
Motorcycle 254 0.1% N/A
Bicycle 588 0.1% N/A
Walk 6,150 1.4% N/A
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 Lower Rio Grande Valley 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
78520 64,740 20,847 $50,116 $64,337
78521 87,380 27,731 $44,509 $59,611
78526 60,012 17,516 $70,565 $88,541
78535 425 204 $39,000 $66,894
78537 51,426 13,909 $40,668 $55,522
78538 11,982 3,556 $40,399 $55,612

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FAQs about Lower Rio Grande Valley demographics 

What is the total population of Lower Rio Grande Valley?

Lower Rio Grande Valley has a total population of 1,274,633 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 % compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Lower Rio Grande Valley?

The gender ratio in Lower Rio Grande Valley is as follows:
  • 49.4% males (630,360 residents)
  • 50.6% females (644,273 residents)

What is the median age in Lower Rio Grande Valley?

The median age in Lower Rio Grande Valley is 32.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Lower Rio Grande Valley?

The age distribution in Lower Rio Grande Valley is as follows:
  • Under 15: 24.8% (315,982 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16.4% (208,701 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.6% (326,646 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.6% (262,454 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.6% (160,850 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lower Rio Grande Valley?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lower Rio Grande Valley is as follows:
  • White: 30.1% (384,007 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.7% (8,469 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (5,593 residents)
  • Asian: 1% (12,394 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (526 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 57.3% (730,209 residents)
  • Other: 10.5% (133,434 residents)

What percentage of the population in Lower Rio Grande Valley are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 73.8% of the population in Lower Rio Grande Valley.

How many housing units are there in Lower Rio Grande Valley?

There are 450,364 housing units in Lower Rio Grande Valley, reflecting a % change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Lower Rio Grande Valley and what is the average household size?

Lower Rio Grande Valley has a total of 395,136 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lower Rio Grande Valley?

Lower Rio Grande Valley has a median household income of $52,863, representing a % shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Lower Rio Grande Valley?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.9% (376,691 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.1% (133,137 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.3% (67,922 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.8% (330,157 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.6% (89,756 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.3% (21,994 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