Bay City, TX
Population 17,816 · Texas
About Bay City, TX
Bay City is a mid-sized city in Texas with a population of 17,816 residents. The median household income is $51,898 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Bay City is 32.8 years.
Housing in Bay City has a median home value of $149,800 and median monthly rent of $997. Of the 8,204 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 3,613 owner-occupied and 3,540 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Bay City is 11.8% and the poverty rate is 26.7%. 20.5% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 22.6 minutes.
Cost of Living in Bay City, TX
Compared to national averages, Bay City has a median household income of $51,898 (31% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $149,800, which is 39% below the national median. Monthly rent at $997 is 14% below the US average of $1,163. Within Texas, Bay City's income is 29% below the state average of $72,726, and home values are 29% below the state median of $211,769.
Why Live in Bay City, TX?
Bay City offers affordable housing with a median home value of $149,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $997/month, and short commute times averaging just 22.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($51,898) that falls below the national average. However, Bay City’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Bay City has a population of 17,816 with a median age of 32.8 years. Compare Bay City with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Texas.
Similar Cities Near Bay City
Cities in Texas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alice | 17,797 | $46,963 | $107,700 | Compare |
| Gainesville | 17,688 | $56,341 | $162,900 | Compare |
| Brenham | 18,086 | $57,207 | $223,200 | Compare |
| White Settlement | 18,119 | $56,472 | $176,500 | Compare |
| Melissa | 17,497 | $137,875 | $430,300 | Compare |
| Royse City | 17,357 | $116,424 | $288,400 | Compare |
| Stafford | 17,279 | $85,910 | $247,900 | Compare |
| Glenn Heights | 17,175 | $79,739 | $252,200 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Texas
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Bay City
What is the population of Bay City, TX?
The population of Bay City, TX is 17,816 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Bay City?
The median household income in Bay City, TX is $51,898 per year.
What is the median home value in Bay City?
The median home value in Bay City, TX is $149,800.
What is the average rent in Bay City?
The median monthly rent in Bay City, TX is $997.
What is the unemployment rate in Bay City?
The unemployment rate in Bay City, TX is 11.8%.