South Houston, TX demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
16,033
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$53,497/yr
1.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,487
-0.8% year-over-year change

South Houston population

How many people live in South Houston

South Houston is home to 16,033 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.5% of South Houston locals are male, and 51.5% are female.

Total population
16,033
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.5%
7,783
Female
51.5%
8,250
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,783 48.5% 1.6%
Female 8,250 51.5% -1.3%
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 South Houston is 31, with the population distributed as follows: about 24.2% are children under 15, then 17.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25% of the population, while another 21.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
31.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
24.2%
15 to 24
17.7%
25 to 44
25%
45 to 64
21.7%
Over 65
11.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,876 24.2% 0.4%
15 to 24 2,841 17.7% -14.9%
25 to 44 4,017 25% 5.5%
45 to 64 3,474 21.7% -4.2%
Over 65 1,825 11.4% 31.6%
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 South Houston, 65.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 10.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 23.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 17.4% of locals are Caucasian, 3.1% are African American and 0.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 62% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
65.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
10.5%
Non-citizens
23.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 10,572 65.9% -2.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,678 10.5% -6.4%
Non-citizens 3,783 23.6% 11.7%
Racial breakdown
White
17.4%
Black or African American
3.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.2%
Asian
0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
62%
Other
15.3%
Value Percent
White 2,791 17.4%
Black or African American 497 3.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 196 1.2%
Asian 144 0.9%
Two or more races 9,947 62%
Other 2,458 15.3%

Households in South Houston

A peek inside South Houston households

South Houston has 4,998 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 79.1% are families, while the remaining 20.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,998
-0.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,045
Family households
3,953
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,045 20.9% -13.5%
Family households 3,953 79.1% 3.7%
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 South Houston

The housing landscape of South Houston

South Houston's housing consists of 5,487 units, with 68.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.5% 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 8.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,487
-0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,768 68.7%
1 unit, attached 83 1.5%
2 units 47 0.9%
3 or 4 units 334 6.1%
5 to 9 units 188 3.4%
10 to 19 units 274 5%
20 to 49 units 108 2%
50 or more units 218 4%
Mobile home 459 8.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 8 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
38
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in South Houston

In South Houston, the median construction year is 1969. About 1.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 91 1.7% 106.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 399 7.3% -2.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,035 18.9% -2.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,382 25.2% -0.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 892 16.3% 1.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 441 8% 6.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 443 8.1% -8.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 419 7.6% -5.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 347 6.3% -15.8%
Built in 2020 or later 38 0.7% N/A
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.

South Houston occupancy rates

Out of the 4,998 occupied housing units in South Houston, 55.4% are owner-occupied, while 44.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,998
-0.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,231
Owner occupied
2,767
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,231 44.6% -3.1%
Owner occupied 2,767 55.4% 1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
8.9%
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.

South Houston housing costs

Housing costs in South Houston come to a median of $1,072 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,212.

Median housing costs per month
$1,072/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 South Houston
$1,212/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 South Houston

South Houston education at a glance

About 48.3% of the population in South Houston went to high school, while 15.2% pursued college studies. Another 5.6% earned an associate degree and 7.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 1.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,387 21.6% 12.4%
High school diploma 5,342 48.3% 1.9%
College diploma 1,684 15.2% -14.4%
Associate degree 618 5.6% 3.2%
Bachelor's degree 848 7.7% 6.4%
Graduate degree 176 1.6% 47.9%
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 South Houston

How much people earn in South Houston

The average annual household income in South Houston was $69,130 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 $53,497, reflecting a +1.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in South Houston
$69,130/year
2.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in South Houston
$53,497/year
1.7% year-over-year change

South Houston income by age

In South Houston, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $54,613. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $73,271 overall. Overall, 74.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $54,613 0.5%
45 - 64 $73,271 26.3%
Over 65 $40,078 13.5%
Above poverty level
11,776
Below poverty level
4,008
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 11,776 74.6% -3.3%
Below poverty level 4,008 25.4% 10.6%

Average renter income in South Houston

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in South Houston, their median household income was $37,283 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 39%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$37,283
Rent-to-income ratio
39%
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 South Houston

Workforce and job types in South Houston

The job market in South Houston is powered by 6,686 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 53.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 46.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.3% run their own businesses, 76.5% are employed by private companies, and 8.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,686
-2.2% year-over-year change
White collar
3,556
Blue collar
3,130
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,556 53.2% -9.5%
Blue collar 3,130 46.8% 7.6%
Employer type
Self employees
12.3%
Private companies
76.5%
Governmental workers
8.6%
Not for profit companies
2.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 824 12.3% 13.0%
Private companies 5,112 76.5% -4.4%
Governmental workers 578 8.6% -9.6%
Not for profit companies 172 2.6% 44.5%
Unemployment rate
8.3%
-13.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in South Houston stands at 8.3%, 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 South Houston

How people get around in South Houston

In South Houston, the average commute time is 30 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 92.1% 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
30 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,056 92.1% -2.6%
Walk 74 1.1% -14.9%
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 South Houston by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
77587 16,033 4,998 $53,497 $69,130

Explore more communities

FAQs about South Houston demographics 

What is the total population of South Houston?

South Houston has a total population of 16,033 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 South Houston?

The gender ratio in South Houston is as follows:
  • 48.5% males (7,783 residents)
  • 51.5% females (8,250 residents)

What is the median age in South Houston?

The median age in South Houston is 31.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in South Houston?

The age distribution in South Houston is as follows:
  • Under 15: 24.2% (3,876 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 17.7% (2,841 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25% (4,017 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.7% (3,474 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.4% (1,825 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of South Houston?

The racial and ethnic makeup of South Houston is as follows:
  • White: 17.4% (2,791 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.1% (497 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.2% (196 residents)
  • Asian: 0.9% (144 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 62% (9,947 residents)
  • Other: 15.3% (2,458 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 65.9% of the population in South Houston.

How many housing units are there in South Houston?

There are 5,487 housing units in South Houston, 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 South Houston and what is the average household size?

South Houston has a total of 4,998 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in South Houston?

South Houston has a median household income of $53,497, representing a +1.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for South Houston?

The employment rate is 91.7% in South Houston, with a workforce of 6,686 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 53.2% (3,556 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 46.8% (3,130 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.3% (824 residents)
  • Private companies: 76.5% (5,112 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 8.6% (578 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 2.6% (172 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