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

Total population
352,955
0.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$66,897/yr
1.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
154,408
0.8% year-over-year change

Nueces County population

How many people live in Nueces County

Nueces County is home to 352,955 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.7% of Nueces County locals are male, and 50.3% are female.

Total population
352,955
0.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.7%
175,368
Female
50.3%
177,587
Value Percent YoY change
Male 175,368 49.7% -0.1%
Female 177,587 50.3% 0.2%
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 Nueces County is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.5% are children under 15, then 14% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.1% of the population, while another 23.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.5%
15 to 24
14%
25 to 44
27.1%
45 to 64
23.3%
Over 65
16.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 68,740 19.5% -1.2%
15 to 24 49,490 14% -0.0%
25 to 44 95,615 27.1% -0.1%
45 to 64 82,334 23.3% -0.8%
Over 65 56,776 16.1% 3.1%
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 Nueces County, 90.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 45.8% of locals are Caucasian, 3.9% are African American and 2.3% have Asian roots. Another 0.5% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 6.2% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 41.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.5%
Non-citizens
5.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 319,172 90.4% -0.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 15,851 4.5% -1.7%
Non-citizens 17,932 5.1% 3.0%
Racial breakdown
White
45.8%
Black or African American
3.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
2.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
41.2%
Other
6.2%
Value Percent
White 161,750 45.8%
Black or African American 13,625 3.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,665 0.5%
Asian 8,171 2.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 277 0.1%
Two or more races 145,454 41.2%
Other 22,013 6.2%

Households in Nueces County

A peek inside Nueces County households

Nueces County has 131,160 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 68% are families, while the remaining 32% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
131,160
0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
41,936
Family households
89,224
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 41,936 32% -0.3%
Family households 89,224 68% 0.6%
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 Nueces County

The housing landscape of Nueces County

Nueces County's housing consists of 154,408 units, with 65.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.1% 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 3.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
154,408
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 100,742 65.2%
1 unit, attached 3,265 2.1%
2 units 3,913 2.5%
3 or 4 units 8,335 5.4%
5 to 9 units 12,144 7.9%
10 to 19 units 8,305 5.4%
20 to 49 units 4,145 2.7%
50 or more units 7,331 4.8%
Mobile home 6,008 3.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 220 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
2,682
74.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Nueces County

In Nueces County, the median construction year is 1983. About 2.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 11.9% 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 4,119 2.7% 4.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 8,128 5.3% -9.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 20,839 13.5% -1.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 16,578 10.7% 0.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 20,605 13.3% -2.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 26,354 17.1% -1.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 17,210 11.2% 3.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 19,531 12.6% 4.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 18,362 11.9% 3.9%
Built in 2020 or later 2,682 1.7% 74.2%
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.

Nueces County occupancy rates

Out of the 131,160 occupied housing units in Nueces County, 59.7% are owner-occupied, while 40.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
131,160
0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
52,888
Owner occupied
78,272
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 52,888 40.3% 0.8%
Owner occupied 78,272 59.7% -0.0%
Unoccupied housing units
15.1%
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.

Nueces County housing costs

Housing costs in Nueces County come to a median of $1,251 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,283.

Median housing costs per month
$1,251/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 Nueces County
$1,283/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 Nueces County

Nueces County education at a glance

About 39% of the population in Nueces County went to high school, while 24.6% pursued college studies. Another 8.7% earned an associate degree and 14.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 15,688 5.8% 3.2%
High school diploma 105,096 39% -0.5%
College diploma 66,353 24.6% -0.1%
Associate degree 23,535 8.7% 1.1%
Bachelor's degree 39,090 14.5% 3.2%
Graduate degree 19,608 7.3% -2.0%
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 Nueces County

How much people earn in Nueces County

The average annual household income in Nueces County was $90,646 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $66,897, reflecting a +1.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Nueces County
$90,646/year
2.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Nueces County
$66,897/year
1.3% year-over-year change

Nueces County income by age

In Nueces County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $73,385. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $78,230 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $42,173, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $51,183 in earnings. Overall, 82.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $42,173 -3.2%
25 - 44 $73,385 3.9%
45 - 64 $78,230 -1.9%
Over 65 $51,183 1.4%
Above poverty level
282,532
Below poverty level
59,386
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 282,532 82.6% 0.3%
Below poverty level 59,386 17.4% -1.3%

Employment in Nueces County

Workforce and job types in Nueces County

The job market in Nueces County is powered by 160,022 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.9% run their own businesses, 67.8% are employed by private companies, and 16.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
160,022
0.2% year-over-year change
White collar
121,041
Blue collar
38,981
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 121,041 75.6% 1.0%
Blue collar 38,981 24.4% -1.9%
Employer type
Self employees
9.9%
Private companies
67.8%
Governmental workers
16.1%
Not for profit companies
6.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 15,862 9.9% -0.4%
Private companies 108,513 67.8% -0.8%
Governmental workers 25,809 16.1% 1.5%
Not for profit companies 9,838 6.2% 10.6%
Unemployment rate
5.2%
-7.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Nueces County stands at 5.2%, 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 Nueces County

How people get around in Nueces County

In Nueces County, the average commute time is 22 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 90.5% 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
22 min
1.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 144,773 90.5% -0.5%
Taxicab 56 0% 143.5%
Bus or trolleybus 1,717 1.1% -3.8%
Subway or elevated 3 0% N/A
Motorcycle 292 0.2% -23.2%
Bicycle 296 0.2% -0.3%
Walk 2,312 1.4% 3.5%
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 Nueces County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
78330 351 119 $50,536 $87,779
78336 12,424 4,846 $58,420 $81,982
78339 465 146 $94,444 $94,770
78343 4,345 1,528 $65,467 $86,484
78351 483 137 $38,925 $47,264
78373 3,348 1,535 $91,106 $133,661
78380 23,149 8,129 $54,769 $78,806
78401 4,344 1,445 $40,841 $61,975
78402 554 242 $55,565 $71,444

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FAQs about Nueces County demographics 

What is the total population of Nueces County?

Nueces County has a total population of 352,955 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 +0.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Nueces County?

The gender ratio in Nueces County is as follows:
  • 49.7% males (175,368 residents)
  • 50.3% females (177,587 residents)

What is the median age in Nueces County?

The median age in Nueces County is 37.2.

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

The age distribution in Nueces County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.5% (68,740 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14% (49,490 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.1% (95,615 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.3% (82,334 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.1% (56,776 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Nueces County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Nueces County is as follows:
  • White: 45.8% (161,750 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.9% (13,625 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (1,665 residents)
  • Asian: 2.3% (8,171 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (277 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 41.2% (145,454 residents)
  • Other: 6.2% (22,013 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 90.4% of the population in Nueces County.

How many housing units are there in Nueces County?

There are 154,408 housing units in Nueces County, reflecting a +0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Nueces County has a total of 131,160 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Nueces County?

Nueces County has a median household income of $66,897, representing a +1.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.8% in Nueces County, with a workforce of 160,022 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.6% (121,041 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.4% (38,981 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.9% (15,862 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.8% (108,513 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.1% (25,809 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.2% (9,838 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