Sweetwater, TX demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
10,385
-0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$44,892/yr
-1.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,170
-0.0% year-over-year change

Sweetwater population

How many people live in Sweetwater

Sweetwater is home to 10,385 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.7% of Sweetwater locals are male, and 50.3% are female.

Total population
10,385
-0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.7%
5,161
Female
50.3%
5,224
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,161 49.7% -3.6%
Female 5,224 50.3% 1.9%
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 Sweetwater is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 22.6% are children under 15, then 14.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.7% of the population, while another 24.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
22.6%
15 to 24
14.1%
25 to 44
21.7%
45 to 64
24.1%
Over 65
17.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,351 22.6% 2.3%
15 to 24 1,466 14.1% 0.1%
25 to 44 2,250 21.7% -6.8%
45 to 64 2,501 24.1% 1.4%
Over 65 1,817 17.5% -1.2%
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 Sweetwater, 95.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.7% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 23.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.1%
Non-citizens
1.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 9,886 95.2% -0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 320 3.1% -10.4%
Non-citizens 179 1.7% 10.5%
Racial breakdown
White
63.2%
Black or African American
2.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.6%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
23.5%
Other
9.1%
Value Percent
White 6,567 63.2%
Black or African American 260 2.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 169 1.6%
Two or more races 2,443 23.5%
Other 946 9.1%

Households in Sweetwater

A peek inside Sweetwater households

Sweetwater has 4,245 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 59.5% are families, while the remaining 40.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,245
1.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,720
Family households
2,525
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,720 40.5% -1.4%
Family households 2,525 59.5% 3.3%
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 Sweetwater

The housing landscape of Sweetwater

Sweetwater's housing consists of 5,170 units, with 73.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.5% 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 4.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,170
-0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,820 73.9%
1 unit, attached 26 0.5%
2 units 252 4.9%
3 or 4 units 323 6.2%
5 to 9 units 224 4.3%
10 to 19 units 164 3.2%
20 to 49 units 41 0.8%
50 or more units 68 1.3%
Mobile home 244 4.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 8 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Sweetwater

In Sweetwater, the median construction year is 1963. About 13.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 10.2% 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 708 13.7% 30.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 525 10.2% -20.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,123 21.7% -13.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 913 17.7% -2.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 876 16.9% 9.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 636 12.3% 12.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 168 3.2% 8.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 84 1.6% -21.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 137 2.6% 25.7%
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.

Sweetwater occupancy rates

Out of the 4,245 occupied housing units in Sweetwater, 59.7% are owner-occupied, while 40.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 17.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,245
1.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,710
Owner occupied
2,535
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,710 40.3% -4.3%
Owner occupied 2,535 59.7% 5.5%
Unoccupied housing units
17.9%
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.

Sweetwater housing costs

Housing costs in Sweetwater come to a median of $738 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $907.

Median housing costs per month
$738/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 Sweetwater
$907/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 Sweetwater

Sweetwater education at a glance

About 46.2% of the population in Sweetwater went to high school, while 23.3% pursued college studies. Another 8.9% earned an associate degree and 7.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 674 8.9% 0.5%
High school diploma 3,488 46.2% -6.3%
College diploma 1,757 23.3% -2.9%
Associate degree 671 8.9% -3.6%
Bachelor's degree 547 7.2% 35.7%
Graduate degree 409 5.4% 6.2%
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 Sweetwater

How much people earn in Sweetwater

The average annual household income in Sweetwater was $61,929 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -4.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $44,892, reflecting a -1.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Sweetwater
$61,929/year
-4.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Sweetwater
$44,892/year
-1.8% year-over-year change

Sweetwater income by age

In Sweetwater, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $47,691. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $48,310 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $53,914, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $38,390 in earnings. Overall, 72% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $53,914 3.5%
25 - 44 $47,691 6.0%
45 - 64 $48,310 -3.2%
Over 65 $38,390 1.8%
Above poverty level
7,263
Below poverty level
2,828
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 7,263 72% -6.2%
Below poverty level 2,828 28% 19.4%

Average renter income in Sweetwater

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Sweetwater, their median household income was $35,784 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 30.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$35,784
Rent-to-income ratio
30.4%
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 Sweetwater

Workforce and job types in Sweetwater

The job market in Sweetwater is powered by 4,456 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 64.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 35.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.9% run their own businesses, 67.4% are employed by private companies, and 18.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,456
-7.0% year-over-year change
White collar
2,878
Blue collar
1,578
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,878 64.6% -11.5%
Blue collar 1,578 35.4% 2.6%
Employer type
Self employees
8.9%
Private companies
67.4%
Governmental workers
18.9%
Not for profit companies
4.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 395 8.9% -10.8%
Private companies 3,005 67.4% -8.1%
Governmental workers 841 18.9% -7.9%
Not for profit companies 215 4.8% 29.5%
Unemployment rate
6.9%
9.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Sweetwater stands at 6.9%, 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 Sweetwater

How people get around in Sweetwater

Commuting methods vary: 91.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.7% 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 4,039 91.3% -6.6%
Motorcycle 14 0.3% 27.3%
Bicycle 45 1% 55.2%
Walk 74 1.7% -22.9%
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 Sweetwater by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
79556 12,532 5,103 $49,393 $73,641

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FAQs about Sweetwater demographics 

What is the total population of Sweetwater?

Sweetwater has a total population of 10,385 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 Sweetwater?

The gender ratio in Sweetwater is as follows:
  • 49.7% males (5,161 residents)
  • 50.3% females (5,224 residents)

What is the median age in Sweetwater?

The median age in Sweetwater is 37.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Sweetwater?

The age distribution in Sweetwater is as follows:
  • Under 15: 22.6% (2,351 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.1% (1,466 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.7% (2,250 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.1% (2,501 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.5% (1,817 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Sweetwater?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Sweetwater is as follows:
  • White: 63.2% (6,567 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.5% (260 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.6% (169 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 23.5% (2,443 residents)
  • Other: 9.1% (946 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.2% of the population in Sweetwater.

How many housing units are there in Sweetwater?

There are 5,170 housing units in Sweetwater, reflecting a -0.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Sweetwater has a total of 4,245 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Sweetwater?

Sweetwater has a median household income of $44,892, representing a -1.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.1% in Sweetwater, with a workforce of 4,456 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 64.6% (2,878 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 35.4% (1,578 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.9% (395 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.4% (3,005 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.9% (841 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.8% (215 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