Wharton County, TX demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
41,794
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$66,924/yr
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
17,711
0.9% year-over-year change

Wharton County population

How many people live in Wharton County

Wharton County is home to 41,794 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.9% of Wharton County locals are male, and 50.1% are female.

Total population
41,794
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.9%
20,854
Female
50.1%
20,940
Value Percent YoY change
Male 20,854 49.9% 1.1%
Female 20,940 50.1% -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 Wharton County is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.7% are children under 15, then 13.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.8% of the population, while another 23.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.7%
15 to 24
13.9%
25 to 44
23.8%
45 to 64
23.4%
Over 65
18.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 8,660 20.7% -0.7%
15 to 24 5,800 13.9% 8.4%
25 to 44 9,945 23.8% -5.2%
45 to 64 9,800 23.4% 1.6%
Over 65 7,589 18.2% 1.9%
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 Wharton County, 90.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 57.4% of locals are Caucasian, 11.4% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 19.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.1%
Non-citizens
5.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 37,927 90.8% -0.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,718 4.1% 13.5%
Non-citizens 2,149 5.1% -2.5%
Racial breakdown
White
57.4%
Black or African American
11.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
19.5%
Other
10.8%
Value Percent
White 24,009 57.4%
Black or African American 4,779 11.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 122 0.3%
Asian 209 0.5%
Two or more races 8,161 19.5%
Other 4,514 10.8%

Households in Wharton County

A peek inside Wharton County households

Wharton County has 15,890 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 72.2% are families, while the remaining 27.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
15,890
3.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
4,424
Family households
11,466
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,424 27.8% -6.7%
Family households 11,466 72.2% 7.4%
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 Wharton County

The housing landscape of Wharton County

Wharton County's housing consists of 17,711 units, with 76.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.2% 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 10.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
17,711
0.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 13,555 76.5%
1 unit, attached 214 1.2%
2 units 235 1.3%
3 or 4 units 447 2.5%
5 to 9 units 589 3.3%
10 to 19 units 299 1.7%
20 to 49 units 190 1.1%
50 or more units 259 1.5%
Mobile home 1,820 10.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 103 0.6%
Homes built since 2020
446
189.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Wharton County

In Wharton County, the median construction year is 1980. About 7.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,356 7.7% -2.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 848 4.8% -34.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,969 11.1% -7.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,578 8.9% 8.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,228 18.2% 0.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,433 13.7% 11.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,026 11.4% -10.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,996 11.3% 21.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,831 10.3% -0.1%
Built in 2020 or later 446 2.5% 189.6%
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.

Wharton County occupancy rates

Out of the 15,890 occupied housing units in Wharton County, 72.3% are owner-occupied, while 27.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
15,890
3.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,408
Owner occupied
11,482
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,408 27.7% -2.8%
Owner occupied 11,482 72.3% 5.5%
Unoccupied housing units
10.3%
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.

Wharton County housing costs

Housing costs in Wharton County come to a median of $999 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,046.

Median housing costs per month
$999/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 Wharton County
$1,046/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 Wharton County

Wharton County education at a glance

About 40.8% of the population in Wharton County went to high school, while 20.9% pursued college studies. Another 11.7% earned an associate degree and 14.8% 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 2,257 7.2% -3.8%
High school diploma 12,723 40.8% -0.4%
College diploma 6,517 20.9% -9.3%
Associate degree 3,656 11.7% 15.2%
Bachelor's degree 4,606 14.8% 12.5%
Graduate degree 1,413 4.5% -0.6%
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 Wharton County

How much people earn in Wharton County

The average annual household income in Wharton County was $95,050 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $66,924, reflecting a +1.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Wharton County
$95,050/year
6.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Wharton County
$66,924/year
1.2% year-over-year change

Wharton County income by age

In Wharton County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $78,976. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $78,545 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $73,470, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $49,309 in earnings. Overall, 86.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $73,470 3.3%
25 - 44 $78,976 -1.6%
45 - 64 $78,545 7.3%
Over 65 $49,309 6.3%
Above poverty level
35,158
Below poverty level
5,481
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 35,158 86.5% 1.4%
Below poverty level 5,481 13.5% -6.4%

Employment in Wharton County

Workforce and job types in Wharton County

The job market in Wharton County is powered by 18,978 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 66.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 33.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.3% run their own businesses, 68.3% are employed by private companies, and 15.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
18,978
4.4% year-over-year change
White collar
12,606
Blue collar
6,372
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 12,606 66.4% -0.0%
Blue collar 6,372 33.6% 14.4%
Employer type
Self employees
11.3%
Private companies
68.3%
Governmental workers
15.6%
Not for profit companies
4.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,137 11.3% 5.1%
Private companies 12,955 68.3% 4.9%
Governmental workers 2,957 15.6% 5.3%
Not for profit companies 929 4.9% -6.5%
Unemployment rate
4.9%
-28.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Wharton County stands at 4.9%, 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 Wharton County

How people get around in Wharton County

Commuting methods vary: 91.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.8% 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 17,053 91.5% 5.4%
Bus or trolleybus 13 0.1% -43.5%
Motorcycle 25 0.1% 108.3%
Bicycle 191 1% 274.5%
Walk 330 1.8% -7.6%
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 Wharton County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
77420 2,236 887 $67,697 $160,248
77434 3,970 1,303 $71,705 $89,511
77435 4,812 1,933 $68,778 $102,107
77436 28 0 $0 $0
77437 18,238 6,624 $72,200 $93,870
77448 171 58 $0 $0
77453 91 61 $0 $0
77454 178 96 $0 $0

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FAQs about Wharton County demographics 

What is the total population of Wharton County?

Wharton County has a total population of 41,794 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 Wharton County?

The gender ratio in Wharton County is as follows:
  • 49.9% males (20,854 residents)
  • 50.1% females (20,940 residents)

What is the median age in Wharton County?

The median age in Wharton County is 38.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Wharton County?

The age distribution in Wharton County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.7% (8,660 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.9% (5,800 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.8% (9,945 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.4% (9,800 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.2% (7,589 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Wharton County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Wharton County is as follows:
  • White: 57.4% (24,009 residents)
  • Black or African American: 11.4% (4,779 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (122 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (209 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 19.5% (8,161 residents)
  • Other: 10.8% (4,514 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 90.8% of the population in Wharton County.

How many housing units are there in Wharton County?

There are 17,711 housing units in Wharton County, reflecting a +0.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Wharton County has a total of 15,890 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Wharton County?

Wharton County has a median household income of $66,924, representing a +1.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Wharton County?

The employment rate is 95.1% in Wharton County, with a workforce of 18,978 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 66.4% (12,606 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 33.6% (6,372 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.3% (2,137 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.3% (12,955 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.6% (2,957 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.9% (929 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