Mercedes, TX demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
16,733
1.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$46,904/yr
12.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,031
-1.4% year-over-year change

Mercedes population

How many people live in Mercedes

Mercedes is home to 16,733 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.1% of Mercedes locals are male, and 50.9% are female.

Total population
16,733
1.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.1%
8,212
Female
50.9%
8,521
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,212 49.1% 5.8%
Female 8,521 50.9% -2.0%
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 Mercedes is 33, with the population distributed as follows: about 25.1% are children under 15, then 15.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.9% of the population, while another 17.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
33.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
25.1%
15 to 24
15.8%
25 to 44
26.9%
45 to 64
17.1%
Over 65
15.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,201 25.1% -0.0%
15 to 24 2,637 15.8% -8.2%
25 to 44 4,506 26.9% 7.3%
45 to 64 2,856 17.1% 7.6%
Over 65 2,533 15.1% 0.4%
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 Mercedes, 82.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 12.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 45.7% of locals are Caucasian, 0.4% are African American and 0.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 46.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
82.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.5%
Non-citizens
12.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 13,861 82.8% -0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 757 4.5% -5.6%
Non-citizens 2,115 12.6% 19.6%
Racial breakdown
White
45.7%
Black or African American
0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
46.6%
Other
7.3%
Value Percent
White 7,643 45.7%
Black or African American 62 0.4%
Asian 18 0.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 3 0%
Two or more races 7,789 46.6%
Other 1,218 7.3%

Households in Mercedes

A peek inside Mercedes households

Mercedes has 5,205 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 74.8% are families, while the remaining 25.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,205
3.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,314
Family households
3,891
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,314 25.2% 1.9%
Family households 3,891 74.8% 4.1%
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 Mercedes

The housing landscape of Mercedes

Mercedes's housing consists of 6,031 units, with 61.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.2% 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 14.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
6,031
-1.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,722 61.7%
1 unit, attached 12 0.2%
2 units 667 11.1%
3 or 4 units 326 5.4%
5 to 9 units 188 3.1%
20 to 49 units 18 0.3%
50 or more units 157 2.6%
Mobile home 857 14.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 84 1.4%
Homes built since 2020
116
-10.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Mercedes

In Mercedes, the median construction year is 1991. About 5.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 24.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 317 5.3% -7.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 294 4.9% 33.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 282 4.7% -25.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 301 5% -8.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 686 11.4% -16.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,073 17.8% -8.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 913 15.1% -12.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,474 24.4% 29.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 575 9.5% 7.3%
Built in 2020 or later 116 1.9% -10.1%
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.

Mercedes occupancy rates

Out of the 5,205 occupied housing units in Mercedes, 62.8% are owner-occupied, while 37.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,205
3.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,935
Owner occupied
3,270
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,935 37.2% 8.2%
Owner occupied 3,270 62.8% 1.0%
Unoccupied housing units
13.7%
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.

Mercedes housing costs

Housing costs in Mercedes come to a median of $761 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $812.

Median housing costs per month
$761/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 Mercedes
$812/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 Mercedes

Mercedes education at a glance

About 44.2% of the population in Mercedes went to high school, while 20.2% pursued college studies. Another 7.5% earned an associate degree and 9.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,661 14.5% -0.4%
High school diploma 5,075 44.2% 4.0%
College diploma 2,320 20.2% -4.3%
Associate degree 858 7.5% 6.2%
Bachelor's degree 1,103 9.6% 16.5%
Graduate degree 452 3.9% -11.2%
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 Mercedes

How much people earn in Mercedes

The average annual household income in Mercedes was $61,830 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 $46,904, reflecting a +12.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Mercedes
$61,830/year
7.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Mercedes
$46,904/year
12.3% year-over-year change

Mercedes income by age

In Mercedes, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $57,894. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $51,280 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $23,556, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $37,645 in earnings. Overall, 71.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $23,556 -18.1%
25 - 44 $57,894 48.6%
45 - 64 $51,280 -17.3%
Over 65 $37,645 1.8%
Above poverty level
11,808
Below poverty level
4,753
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 11,808 71.3% 6.5%
Below poverty level 4,753 28.7% -6.4%

Average renter income in Mercedes

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Mercedes, their median household income was $16,138 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 60.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$16,138
Rent-to-income ratio
60.4%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Mercedes

Workforce and job types in Mercedes

The job market in Mercedes is powered by 6,437 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8% run their own businesses, 73.1% are employed by private companies, and 14.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,437
6.6% year-over-year change
White collar
4,632
Blue collar
1,805
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,632 72% 0.9%
Blue collar 1,805 28% 24.6%
Employer type
Self employees
8%
Private companies
73.1%
Governmental workers
14.5%
Not for profit companies
4.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 515 8% 22.6%
Private companies 4,707 73.1% 3.2%
Governmental workers 935 14.5% 15.0%
Not for profit companies 280 4.4% 14.8%
Unemployment rate
6.8%
-14.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Mercedes stands at 6.8%, 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 Mercedes

How people get around in Mercedes

Commuting methods vary: 84.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.8% 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 5,295 84.9% 9.0%
Bus or trolleybus 25 0.4% -54.5%
Walk 47 0.8% -24.2%
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 Mercedes by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
78570 34,348 9,161 $41,965 $58,526

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FAQs about Mercedes demographics 

What is the total population of Mercedes?

Mercedes has a total population of 16,733 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 +1.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Mercedes?

The gender ratio in Mercedes is as follows:
  • 49.1% males (8,212 residents)
  • 50.9% females (8,521 residents)

What is the median age in Mercedes?

The median age in Mercedes is 33.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Mercedes?

The age distribution in Mercedes is as follows:
  • Under 15: 25.1% (4,201 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.8% (2,637 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.9% (4,506 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 17.1% (2,856 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.1% (2,533 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Mercedes?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Mercedes is as follows:
  • White: 45.7% (7,643 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.4% (62 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0.1% (18 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (3 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 46.6% (7,789 residents)
  • Other: 7.3% (1,218 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 82.8% of the population in Mercedes.

How many housing units are there in Mercedes?

There are 6,031 housing units in Mercedes, 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 Mercedes and what is the average household size?

Mercedes has a total of 5,205 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Mercedes?

Mercedes has a median household income of $46,904, representing a +12.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Mercedes?

The employment rate is 93.2% in Mercedes, with a workforce of 6,437 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72% (4,632 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28% (1,805 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8% (515 residents)
  • Private companies: 73.1% (4,707 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.5% (935 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.4% (280 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