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

Total population
36,329
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$58,628/yr
6.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
19,058
1.0% year-over-year change

Matagorda County population

How many people live in Matagorda County

Matagorda County is home to 36,329 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.9% of Matagorda County locals are male, and 51.1% are female.

Total population
36,329
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.9%
17,781
Female
51.1%
18,548
Value Percent YoY change
Male 17,781 48.9% -1.5%
Female 18,548 51.1% 1.8%
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 Matagorda County is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 21% are children under 15, then 12.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.7% of the population, while another 23.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
21%
15 to 24
12.3%
25 to 44
24.7%
45 to 64
23.8%
Over 65
18.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 7,630 21% -2.3%
15 to 24 4,461 12.3% 1.7%
25 to 44 8,989 24.7% 0.8%
45 to 64 8,642 23.8% -0.4%
Over 65 6,607 18.2% 1.9%
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 Matagorda County, 86.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 8.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 52.5% of locals are Caucasian, 10.3% are African American and 1.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 18.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
86.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.8%
Non-citizens
8.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 31,577 86.9% -1.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,754 4.8% 4.2%
Non-citizens 2,998 8.2% 20.2%
Racial breakdown
White
52.5%
Black or African American
10.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
1.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
18.5%
Other
16.5%
Value Percent
White 19,089 52.5%
Black or African American 3,750 10.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 128 0.4%
Asian 650 1.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 16 0%
Two or more races 6,717 18.5%
Other 5,979 16.5%

Households in Matagorda County

A peek inside Matagorda County households

Matagorda County has 15,439 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.7% are families, while the remaining 36.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
15,439
4.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,607
Family households
9,832
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,607 36.3% 17.1%
Family households 9,832 63.7% -2.0%
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 Matagorda County

The housing landscape of Matagorda County

Matagorda County's housing consists of 19,058 units, with 68.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.4% 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 12.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
19,058
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 13,040 68.4%
1 unit, attached 466 2.4%
2 units 301 1.6%
3 or 4 units 765 4%
5 to 9 units 555 2.9%
10 to 19 units 570 3%
20 to 49 units 394 2.1%
50 or more units 435 2.3%
Mobile home 2,298 12.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 234 1.2%
Homes built since 2020
283
23.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Matagorda County

In Matagorda County, the median construction year is 1979. About 6.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 11.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,212 6.4% 33.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 672 3.5% 12.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,969 10.3% 3.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,060 10.8% -16.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,926 20.6% -6.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,991 15.7% -7.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,615 8.5% 9.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,145 11.3% 5.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,185 11.5% 18.9%
Built in 2020 or later 283 1.5% 23.6%
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.

Matagorda County occupancy rates

Out of the 15,439 occupied housing units in Matagorda County, 68.1% are owner-occupied, while 31.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 19% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
15,439
4.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,924
Owner occupied
10,515
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,924 31.9% 6.3%
Owner occupied 10,515 68.1% 3.2%
Unoccupied housing units
19.0%
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.

Matagorda County housing costs

Housing costs in Matagorda County come to a median of $921 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $999.

Median housing costs per month
$921/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 Matagorda County
$999/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 Matagorda County

Matagorda County education at a glance

About 40.8% of the population in Matagorda County went to high school, while 20.4% pursued college studies. Another 9% earned an associate degree and 13.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,505 9.3% 16.9%
High school diploma 11,041 40.8% 2.0%
College diploma 5,513 20.4% -11.7%
Associate degree 2,440 9% 18.6%
Bachelor's degree 3,595 13.3% -8.3%
Graduate degree 1,951 7.2% 10.8%
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 Matagorda County

How much people earn in Matagorda County

The average annual household income in Matagorda County was $78,037 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $58,628, reflecting a +6.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Matagorda County
$78,037/year
5.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Matagorda County
$58,628/year
6.3% year-over-year change

Matagorda County income by age

In Matagorda County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $59,590. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $80,903 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $47,807, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $45,333 in earnings. Overall, 79.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $47,807 N/A
25 - 44 $59,590 -3.0%
45 - 64 $80,903 7.5%
Over 65 $45,333 12.1%
Above poverty level
28,292
Below poverty level
7,368
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 28,292 79.3% 1.9%
Below poverty level 7,368 20.7% -4.7%

Employment in Matagorda County

Workforce and job types in Matagorda County

The job market in Matagorda County is powered by 15,635 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 64.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 35.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.5% run their own businesses, 72.2% are employed by private companies, and 14.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
15,635
3.2% year-over-year change
White collar
10,112
Blue collar
5,523
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 10,112 64.7% 7.0%
Blue collar 5,523 35.3% -3.2%
Employer type
Self employees
6.5%
Private companies
72.2%
Governmental workers
14.1%
Not for profit companies
7.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,019 6.5% -11.5%
Private companies 11,283 72.2% 6.8%
Governmental workers 2,199 14.1% -5.7%
Not for profit companies 1,134 7.2% 3.0%
Unemployment rate
8.7%
31.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Matagorda County stands at 8.7%, 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 Matagorda County

How people get around in Matagorda County

Commuting methods vary: 91.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.9% 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 14,069 91.6% 0.8%
Taxicab 19 0.1% -5.0%
Bus or trolleybus 127 0.8% 130.9%
Walk 136 0.9% 86.3%
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 Matagorda County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
77465 7,681 3,323 $64,666 $81,845
77414 24,334 10,351 $59,128 $79,228
77415 63 50 $71,310 $94,726
77419 609 310 $51,641 $59,312
77428 151 52 $0 $0
77440 45 45 $0 $0
77456 1,394 343 $65,284 $68,821
77457 353 220 $0 $42,655

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FAQs about Matagorda County demographics 

What is the total population of Matagorda County?

Matagorda County has a total population of 36,329 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 +0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Matagorda County?

The gender ratio in Matagorda County is as follows:
  • 48.9% males (17,781 residents)
  • 51.1% females (18,548 residents)

What is the median age in Matagorda County?

The median age in Matagorda County is 37.8.

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

The age distribution in Matagorda County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21% (7,630 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.3% (4,461 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.7% (8,989 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.8% (8,642 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.2% (6,607 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Matagorda County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Matagorda County is as follows:
  • White: 52.5% (19,089 residents)
  • Black or African American: 10.3% (3,750 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (128 residents)
  • Asian: 1.8% (650 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (16 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 18.5% (6,717 residents)
  • Other: 16.5% (5,979 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 86.9% of the population in Matagorda County.

How many housing units are there in Matagorda County?

There are 19,058 housing units in Matagorda County, reflecting a +1.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Matagorda County has a total of 15,439 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Matagorda County?

Matagorda County has a median household income of $58,628, representing a +6.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 91.3% in Matagorda County, with a workforce of 15,635 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 64.7% (10,112 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 35.3% (5,523 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.5% (1,019 residents)
  • Private companies: 72.2% (11,283 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.1% (2,199 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.2% (1,134 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