Rio Grande City, TX demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
15,396
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$44,577/yr
7.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,168
-0.4% year-over-year change

Rio Grande City population

How many people live in Rio Grande City

Rio Grande City is home to 15,396 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Rio Grande City locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
15,396
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
7,643
Female
50.4%
7,753
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,643 49.6% 1.7%
Female 7,753 50.4% 0.1%
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 Rio Grande City is 30, with the population distributed as follows: about 26.4% are children under 15, then 15.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.7% of the population, while another 19.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 10.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
29.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
26.4%
15 to 24
15.1%
25 to 44
28.7%
45 to 64
19.7%
Over 65
10.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,070 26.4% -8.8%
15 to 24 2,328 15.1% 4.4%
25 to 44 4,413 28.7% 0.5%
45 to 64 3,033 19.7% 13.1%
Over 65 1,552 10.1% 4.0%
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 Rio Grande City, 75.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 17.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 29.1% of locals are Caucasian, 0.6% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 55.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
75.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7%
Non-citizens
17.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 11,571 75.2% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,070 7% 7.2%
Non-citizens 2,755 17.9% 2.0%
Racial breakdown
White
29.1%
Black or African American
0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
55.1%
Other
14.6%
Value Percent
White 4,480 29.1%
Black or African American 97 0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 52 0.3%
Asian 38 0.2%
Two or more races 8,479 55.1%
Other 2,250 14.6%

Households in Rio Grande City

A peek inside Rio Grande City households

Rio Grande City has 4,525 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 83% are families, while the remaining 17% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,525
2.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
767
Family households
3,758
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 767 17% 2.7%
Family households 3,758 83% 2.2%
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 Rio Grande City

The housing landscape of Rio Grande City

Rio Grande City's housing consists of 5,168 units, with 69.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.9% 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 11.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,168
-0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,608 69.8%
1 unit, attached 97 1.9%
2 units 175 3.4%
3 or 4 units 131 2.5%
5 to 9 units 171 3.3%
10 to 19 units 185 3.6%
20 to 49 units 95 1.8%
50 or more units 109 2.1%
Mobile home 590 11.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 7 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
82
148.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Rio Grande City

In Rio Grande City, the median construction year is 1991. About 1.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 17.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 85 1.6% -42.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 151 2.9% 403.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 68 1.3% -40.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 334 6.5% -28.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 617 11.9% -15.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,271 24.6% 32.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 749 14.5% -16.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 916 17.7% 4.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 895 17.3% -5.0%
Built in 2020 or later 82 1.6% 148.5%
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.

Rio Grande City occupancy rates

Out of the 4,525 occupied housing units in Rio Grande City, 69.4% are owner-occupied, while 30.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,525
2.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,385
Owner occupied
3,140
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,385 30.6% 2.7%
Owner occupied 3,140 69.4% 2.0%
Unoccupied housing units
12.4%
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.

Rio Grande City housing costs

Housing costs in Rio Grande City come to a median of $588 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $767.

Median housing costs per month
$588/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 Rio Grande City
$767/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 Rio Grande City

Rio Grande City education at a glance

About 39.2% of the population in Rio Grande City went to high school, while 21% pursued college studies. Another 4.9% earned an associate degree and 12% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,875 17.8% -0.3%
High school diploma 4,128 39.2% 0.4%
College diploma 2,210 21% 19.6%
Associate degree 518 4.9% 4.7%
Bachelor's degree 1,267 12% 4.4%
Graduate degree 534 5.1% 22.2%
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 Rio Grande City

How much people earn in Rio Grande City

The average annual household income in Rio Grande City was $60,243 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $44,577, reflecting a +7.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Rio Grande City
$60,243/year
2.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Rio Grande City
$44,577/year
7.8% year-over-year change

Rio Grande City income by age

In Rio Grande City, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $44,149. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $43,799 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $30,684, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $55,933 in earnings. Overall, 69.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $30,684 112.0%
25 - 44 $44,149 6.3%
45 - 64 $43,799 0.2%
Over 65 $55,933 32.6%
Above poverty level
10,249
Below poverty level
4,536
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 10,249 69.3% 5.8%
Below poverty level 4,536 30.7% -8.5%

Employment in Rio Grande City

Workforce and job types in Rio Grande City

The job market in Rio Grande City is powered by 5,865 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 14.9% run their own businesses, 50.1% are employed by private companies, and 33.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,865
4.6% year-over-year change
White collar
4,281
Blue collar
1,584
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,281 73% 3.6%
Blue collar 1,584 27% 7.5%
Employer type
Self employees
14.9%
Private companies
50.1%
Governmental workers
33.7%
Not for profit companies
1.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 872 14.9% 12.2%
Private companies 2,938 50.1% 4.2%
Governmental workers 1,974 33.7% 4.8%
Not for profit companies 81 1.4% -37.2%
Unemployment rate
6.8%
-30.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Rio Grande City 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 Rio Grande City

How people get around in Rio Grande City

In Rio Grande City, the average commute time is 19 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 90.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
19 min
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 5,166 90.5% 3.7%
Walk 62 1.1% -13.9%
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 Rio Grande City by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
78582 44,741 12,795 $42,626 $60,647

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FAQs about Rio Grande City demographics 

What is the total population of Rio Grande City?

Rio Grande City has a total population of 15,396 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 +0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Rio Grande City?

The gender ratio in Rio Grande City is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (7,643 residents)
  • 50.4% females (7,753 residents)

What is the median age in Rio Grande City?

The median age in Rio Grande City is 29.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Rio Grande City?

The age distribution in Rio Grande City is as follows:
  • Under 15: 26.4% (4,070 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.1% (2,328 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.7% (4,413 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 19.7% (3,033 residents)
  • Over 65: 10.1% (1,552 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Rio Grande City?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Rio Grande City is as follows:
  • White: 29.1% (4,480 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.6% (97 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (52 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (38 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 55.1% (8,479 residents)
  • Other: 14.6% (2,250 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 75.2% of the population in Rio Grande City.

How many housing units are there in Rio Grande City?

There are 5,168 housing units in Rio Grande City, reflecting a -0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Rio Grande City has a total of 4,525 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Rio Grande City?

Rio Grande City has a median household income of $44,577, representing a +7.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Rio Grande City?

The employment rate is 93.2% in Rio Grande City, with a workforce of 5,865 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73% (4,281 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27% (1,584 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 14.9% (872 residents)
  • Private companies: 50.1% (2,938 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 33.7% (1,974 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 1.4% (81 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