West Columbia, TX demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
3,621
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$43,490/yr
3.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,522
3.5% year-over-year change

West Columbia population

How many people live in West Columbia

West Columbia is home to 3,621 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 42.4% of West Columbia locals are male, and 57.6% are female.

Total population
3,621
-0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
42.4%
1,537
Female
57.6%
2,084
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,537 42.4% 0.1%
Female 2,084 57.6% -0.5%
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 West Columbia is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.8% are children under 15, then 14.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.6% of the population, while another 22.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.8%
15 to 24
14.4%
25 to 44
22.6%
45 to 64
22.9%
Over 65
21.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 679 18.8% 4.3%
15 to 24 523 14.4% -13.1%
25 to 44 820 22.6% -0.6%
45 to 64 829 22.9% -13.7%
Over 65 770 21.3% 29.9%
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 West Columbia, 93.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 49.6% of locals are Caucasian, 21.8% are African American and 1.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 18.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.6%
Non-citizens
1.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 3,394 93.7% -0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 168 4.6% 86.7%
Non-citizens 59 1.6% -51.2%
Racial breakdown
White
49.6%
Black or African American
21.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
2.7%
Asian
1.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
18.1%
Other
6.7%
Value Percent
White 1,795 49.6%
Black or African American 791 21.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 98 2.7%
Asian 39 1.1%
Two or more races 655 18.1%
Other 243 6.7%

Households in West Columbia

A peek inside West Columbia households

West Columbia has 1,436 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 64.8% are families, while the remaining 35.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,436
0.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
505
Family households
931
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 505 35.2% 11.2%
Family households 931 64.8% -4.3%
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 West Columbia

The housing landscape of West Columbia

West Columbia's housing consists of 1,522 units, with 73.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 12.8% 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 3.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,522
3.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,116 73.3%
1 unit, attached 194 12.8%
2 units 67 4.4%
3 or 4 units 11 0.7%
5 to 9 units 19 1.2%
50 or more units 67 4.4%
Mobile home 48 3.2%
Homes built since 2020
16
-20.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in West Columbia

In West Columbia, the median construction year is 1975. About 3.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 15.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 52 3.4% 30.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 46 3% 31.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 270 17.7% -31.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 151 9.9% 36.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 520 34.2% 27.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 89 5.8% 23.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 78 5.1% 5.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 69 4.5% 0.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 231 15.2% -7.6%
Built in 2020 or later 16 1% -20.0%
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.

West Columbia occupancy rates

Out of the 1,436 occupied housing units in West Columbia, 60.7% are owner-occupied, while 39.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,436
0.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
564
Owner occupied
872
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 564 39.3% 8.2%
Owner occupied 872 60.7% -3.8%
Unoccupied housing units
5.7%
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.

West Columbia housing costs

Housing costs in West Columbia come to a median of $867 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $964.

Median housing costs per month
$867/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 West Columbia
$964/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 West Columbia

West Columbia education at a glance

About 29.4% of the population in West Columbia went to high school, while 29.3% pursued college studies. Another 18.6% earned an associate degree and 12.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 170 6.1% 36.0%
High school diploma 825 29.4% -8.2%
College diploma 822 29.3% -5.1%
Associate degree 520 18.6% -2.3%
Bachelor's degree 341 12.2% 11.4%
Graduate degree 125 4.5% -3.9%
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 West Columbia

How much people earn in West Columbia

The average annual household income in West Columbia was $67,746 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $43,490, reflecting a +3.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in West Columbia
$67,746/year
-8.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in West Columbia
$43,490/year
3.6% year-over-year change

West Columbia income by age

In West Columbia, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $89,216. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $36,812 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $79,082, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $34,548 in earnings. Overall, 85.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $79,082 N/A
25 - 44 $89,216 3.0%
45 - 64 $36,812 -1.5%
Over 65 $34,548 3.2%
Above poverty level
3,037
Below poverty level
528
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,037 85.2% -4.2%
Below poverty level 528 14.8% 31.0%

Employment in West Columbia

Workforce and job types in West Columbia

The job market in West Columbia is powered by 1,833 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5% run their own businesses, 80.4% are employed by private companies, and 13.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,833
-5.8% year-over-year change
White collar
1,458
Blue collar
375
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,458 79.5% 0.5%
Blue collar 375 20.5% -24.1%
Employer type
Self employees
5%
Private companies
80.4%
Governmental workers
13.3%
Not for profit companies
1.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 91 5% 0.0%
Private companies 1,474 80.4% -10.9%
Governmental workers 243 13.3% 33.5%
Not for profit companies 25 1.4% 38.9%
Unemployment rate
3.8%
40.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in West Columbia stands at 3.8%, 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 West Columbia

How people get around in West Columbia

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,378 91% -9.5%
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 West Columbia by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
77486 7,195 2,748 $74,857 $85,246

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FAQs about West Columbia demographics 

What is the total population of West Columbia?

West Columbia has a total population of 3,621 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 -0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in West Columbia?

The gender ratio in West Columbia is as follows:
  • 42.4% males (1,537 residents)
  • 57.6% females (2,084 residents)

What is the median age in West Columbia?

The median age in West Columbia is 39.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in West Columbia?

The age distribution in West Columbia is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.8% (679 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.4% (523 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.6% (820 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.9% (829 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.3% (770 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of West Columbia?

The racial and ethnic makeup of West Columbia is as follows:
  • White: 49.6% (1,795 residents)
  • Black or African American: 21.8% (791 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 2.7% (98 residents)
  • Asian: 1.1% (39 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 18.1% (655 residents)
  • Other: 6.7% (243 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 93.7% of the population in West Columbia.

How many housing units are there in West Columbia?

There are 1,522 housing units in West Columbia, reflecting a +3.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

West Columbia has a total of 1,436 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in West Columbia?

West Columbia has a median household income of $43,490, representing a +3.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for West Columbia?

The employment rate is 96.2% in West Columbia, with a workforce of 1,833 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.5% (1,458 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.5% (375 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5% (91 residents)
  • Private companies: 80.4% (1,474 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.3% (243 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 1.4% (25 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