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

Total population
11,358
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$70,123/yr
7.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,394
6.7% year-over-year change

Port Lavaca population

How many people live in Port Lavaca

Port Lavaca is home to 11,358 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.3% of Port Lavaca locals are male, and 49.7% are female.

Total population
11,358
-0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.3%
5,716
Female
49.7%
5,642
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,716 50.3% -0.2%
Female 5,642 49.7% -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 Port Lavaca is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.2% are children under 15, then 15.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.9% of the population, while another 23.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.2%
15 to 24
15.6%
25 to 44
22.9%
45 to 64
23.8%
Over 65
18.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,185 19.2% -9.4%
15 to 24 1,777 15.6% 27.7%
25 to 44 2,601 22.9% -15.6%
45 to 64 2,707 23.8% 7.8%
Over 65 2,088 18.4% 3.7%
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 Port Lavaca, 85.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 43.9% of locals are Caucasian, 4.2% are African American and 7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 29.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
85.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.3%
Non-citizens
8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 9,738 85.7% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 711 6.3% -11.7%
Non-citizens 909 8% -0.1%
Racial breakdown
White
43.9%
Black or African American
4.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
29.9%
Other
15%
Value Percent
White 4,988 43.9%
Black or African American 471 4.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 8 0.1%
Asian 794 7%
Two or more races 3,391 29.9%
Other 1,706 15%

Households in Port Lavaca

A peek inside Port Lavaca households

Port Lavaca has 4,977 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 65.1% are families, while the remaining 34.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,977
6.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,737
Family households
3,240
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,737 34.9% 8.8%
Family households 3,240 65.1% 5.8%
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 Port Lavaca

The housing landscape of Port Lavaca

Port Lavaca's housing consists of 5,394 units, with 68.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.4% 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 8.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,394
6.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,688 68.4%
1 unit, attached 185 3.4%
2 units 153 2.8%
3 or 4 units 552 10.2%
5 to 9 units 130 2.4%
20 to 49 units 86 1.6%
50 or more units 140 2.6%
Mobile home 460 8.5%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Port Lavaca

In Port Lavaca, the median construction year is 1972. About 1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 55 1% 5.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 383 7.1% 60.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,094 20.3% -13.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 978 18.1% 21.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,047 19.4% 9.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 883 16.4% 16.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 282 5.2% -15.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 364 6.8% -14.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 308 5.7% 36.9%
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.

Port Lavaca occupancy rates

Out of the 4,977 occupied housing units in Port Lavaca, 70.3% are owner-occupied, while 29.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,977
6.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,479
Owner occupied
3,498
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,479 29.7% 15.2%
Owner occupied 3,498 70.3% 3.7%
Unoccupied housing units
7.7%
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.

Port Lavaca housing costs

Housing costs in Port Lavaca come to a median of $832 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $849.

Median housing costs per month
$832/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 Port Lavaca
$849/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 Port Lavaca

Port Lavaca education at a glance

About 41.2% of the population in Port Lavaca went to high school, while 17% pursued college studies. Another 11.4% earned an associate degree and 13.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 750 8.6% -19.1%
High school diploma 3,598 41.2% -10.0%
College diploma 1,483 17% -10.0%
Associate degree 992 11.4% 28.7%
Bachelor's degree 1,186 13.6% 89.8%
Graduate degree 714 8.2% 25.9%
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 Port Lavaca

How much people earn in Port Lavaca

The average annual household income in Port Lavaca was $91,097 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +8.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $70,123, reflecting a +7.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Port Lavaca
$91,097/year
8.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Port Lavaca
$70,123/year
7.2% year-over-year change

Port Lavaca income by age

In Port Lavaca, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $90,860. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $80,347 overall. Overall, 89.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $90,860 8.3%
45 - 64 $80,347 5.7%
Over 65 $52,113 2.2%
Above poverty level
9,791
Below poverty level
1,135
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 9,791 89.6% 0.3%
Below poverty level 1,135 10.4% -10.7%

Average renter income in Port Lavaca

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Port Lavaca, their median household income was $52,943 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 19.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$52,943
Rent-to-income ratio
19.2%
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 Port Lavaca

Workforce and job types in Port Lavaca

The job market in Port Lavaca is powered by 5,318 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.1% run their own businesses, 68.5% are employed by private companies, and 18.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,318
-2.0% year-over-year change
White collar
3,795
Blue collar
1,523
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,795 71.4% 7.4%
Blue collar 1,523 28.6% -19.6%
Employer type
Self employees
8.1%
Private companies
68.5%
Governmental workers
18.2%
Not for profit companies
5.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 431 8.1% 22.8%
Private companies 3,642 68.5% -7.6%
Governmental workers 968 18.2% 17.8%
Not for profit companies 277 5.2% -10.7%
Unemployment rate
10.6%
73.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Port Lavaca stands at 10.6%, 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 Port Lavaca

How people get around in Port Lavaca

Commuting methods vary: 96.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.1% 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 5,072 96.1% 0.1%
Motorcycle 32 0.6% 255.6%
Walk 5 0.1% -28.6%
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 Port Lavaca by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
77979 16,488 7,140 $77,039 $96,183

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FAQs about Port Lavaca demographics 

What is the total population of Port Lavaca?

Port Lavaca has a total population of 11,358 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 -0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Port Lavaca?

The gender ratio in Port Lavaca is as follows:
  • 50.3% males (5,716 residents)
  • 49.7% females (5,642 residents)

What is the median age in Port Lavaca?

The median age in Port Lavaca is 35.5.

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

The age distribution in Port Lavaca is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.2% (2,185 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.6% (1,777 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.9% (2,601 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.8% (2,707 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.4% (2,088 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Port Lavaca?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Port Lavaca is as follows:
  • White: 43.9% (4,988 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.2% (471 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (8 residents)
  • Asian: 7% (794 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 29.9% (3,391 residents)
  • Other: 15% (1,706 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 85.7% of the population in Port Lavaca.

How many housing units are there in Port Lavaca?

There are 5,394 housing units in Port Lavaca, reflecting a +6.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Port Lavaca has a total of 4,977 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Port Lavaca?

Port Lavaca has a median household income of $70,123, representing a +7.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 89.4% in Port Lavaca, with a workforce of 5,318 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.4% (3,795 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.6% (1,523 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.1% (431 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.5% (3,642 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.2% (968 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.2% (277 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