Universal City, TX demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
20,189
1.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$74,811/yr
-0.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,440
8.6% year-over-year change

Universal City population

How many people live in Universal City

Universal City is home to 20,189 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51% of Universal City locals are male, and 49% are female.

Total population
20,189
1.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51%
10,292
Female
49%
9,897
Value Percent YoY change
Male 10,292 51% 5.0%
Female 9,897 49% -1.5%
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 Universal City is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 20% are children under 15, then 11.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.5% of the population, while another 25.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
20%
15 to 24
11.4%
25 to 44
28.5%
45 to 64
25.7%
Over 65
14.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,036 20% -10.3%
15 to 24 2,308 11.4% 12.5%
25 to 44 5,745 28.5% -0.5%
45 to 64 5,186 25.7% 4.2%
Over 65 2,914 14.4% 14.1%
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 Universal City, 85.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 9.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 52.9% of locals are Caucasian, 8.2% are African American and 4.2% have Asian roots. Another 0.7% are Indigenous American, 0.3% are Pacific Islanders, while 8.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 25.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
85.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
9.4%
Non-citizens
4.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 17,294 85.7% -0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,903 9.4% 8.1%
Non-citizens 992 4.9% 56.5%
Racial breakdown
White
52.9%
Black or African American
8.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.7%
Asian
4.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
25.3%
Other
8.4%
Value Percent
White 10,682 52.9%
Black or African American 1,651 8.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 145 0.7%
Asian 855 4.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 52 0.3%
Two or more races 5,112 25.3%
Other 1,692 8.4%

Households in Universal City

A peek inside Universal City households

Universal City has 8,175 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 65.5% are families, while the remaining 34.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,175
8.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,823
Family households
5,352
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,823 34.5% 18.5%
Family households 5,352 65.5% 3.5%
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 Universal City

The housing landscape of Universal City

Universal City's housing consists of 8,440 units, with 64.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.7% 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 1.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,440
8.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,460 64.7%
1 unit, attached 60 0.7%
2 units 58 0.7%
3 or 4 units 536 6.4%
5 to 9 units 812 9.6%
10 to 19 units 690 8.2%
20 to 49 units 475 5.6%
50 or more units 230 2.7%
Mobile home 119 1.4%
Homes built since 2020
155
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Universal City

In Universal City, the median construction year is 1984. About 0.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 19.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 54 0.6% N/A
Built between 1940 and 1949 17 0.2% -34.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 321 3.8% -19.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,190 14.1% 8.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,960 23.2% 25.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,581 18.7% 10.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,003 11.9% -20.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,670 19.8% 4.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 489 5.8% 24.4%
Built in 2020 or later 155 1.8% 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.

Universal City occupancy rates

Out of the 8,175 occupied housing units in Universal City, 57.5% are owner-occupied, while 42.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,175
8.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,476
Owner occupied
4,699
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,476 42.5% 10.3%
Owner occupied 4,699 57.5% 6.7%
Unoccupied housing units
3.1%
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.

Universal City housing costs

Housing costs in Universal City come to a median of $1,344 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,315.

Median housing costs per month
$1,344/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 Universal City
$1,315/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 Universal City

Universal City education at a glance

About 29.4% of the population in Universal City went to high school, while 26.6% pursued college studies. Another 9.9% earned an associate degree and 22.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 315 2% 108.6%
High school diploma 4,604 29.4% 2.8%
College diploma 4,155 26.6% -0.4%
Associate degree 1,552 9.9% 19.9%
Bachelor's degree 3,499 22.4% 9.4%
Graduate degree 1,523 9.7% -2.2%
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 Universal City

How much people earn in Universal City

The average annual household income in Universal City was $99,389 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $74,811, reflecting a -0.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Universal City
$99,389/year
-0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Universal City
$74,811/year
-0.8% year-over-year change

Universal City income by age

In Universal City, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $67,500. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $95,271 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $59,292, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $76,560 in earnings. Overall, 91.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $59,292 5.9%
25 - 44 $67,500 -1.3%
45 - 64 $95,271 1.5%
Over 65 $76,560 -2.8%
Above poverty level
18,272
Below poverty level
1,781
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 18,272 91.1% 3.0%
Below poverty level 1,781 8.9% -6.8%

Employment in Universal City

Workforce and job types in Universal City

The job market in Universal City is powered by 10,222 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.6% run their own businesses, 66.4% are employed by private companies, and 21.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
10,222
2.8% year-over-year change
White collar
7,551
Blue collar
2,671
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 7,551 73.9% -0.4%
Blue collar 2,671 26.1% 13.0%
Employer type
Self employees
8.6%
Private companies
66.4%
Governmental workers
21.2%
Not for profit companies
3.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 880 8.6% 13.8%
Private companies 6,793 66.4% 9.0%
Governmental workers 2,162 21.2% -11.2%
Not for profit companies 387 3.8% -22.6%
Unemployment rate
5.3%
27.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Universal City stands at 5.3%, 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 Universal City

How people get around in Universal City

In Universal City, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 87.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
26 min
-4.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 9,100 87.8% 2.9%
Motorcycle 19 0.2% -38.7%
Walk 82 0.8% -52.6%
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 Universal City by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
78148 22,187 8,767 $74,783 $98,234

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FAQs about Universal City demographics 

What is the total population of Universal City?

Universal City has a total population of 20,189 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 +1.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Universal City?

The gender ratio in Universal City is as follows:
  • 51% males (10,292 residents)
  • 49% females (9,897 residents)

What is the median age in Universal City?

The median age in Universal City is 37.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Universal City?

The age distribution in Universal City is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20% (4,036 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.4% (2,308 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.5% (5,745 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.7% (5,186 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.4% (2,914 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Universal City?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Universal City is as follows:
  • White: 52.9% (10,682 residents)
  • Black or African American: 8.2% (1,651 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.7% (145 residents)
  • Asian: 4.2% (855 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (52 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 25.3% (5,112 residents)
  • Other: 8.4% (1,692 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 85.7% of the population in Universal City.

How many housing units are there in Universal City?

There are 8,440 housing units in Universal City, reflecting a +8.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Universal City has a total of 8,175 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Universal City?

Universal City has a median household income of $74,811, representing a -0.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.7% in Universal City, with a workforce of 10,222 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.9% (7,551 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.1% (2,671 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.6% (880 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.4% (6,793 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21.2% (2,162 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 3.8% (387 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