Palestine, TX
Population 18,888 · Texas
About Palestine, TX
Palestine is a mid-sized city located in Texas with a population of 18,888 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $46,228 per year, which is 38% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.4 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Palestine features a median home value of $153,400, which is 37% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Palestine in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,032, 11% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 7,891 total housing units, 55% are owner-occupied (3,792 units) and 45% are renter-occupied (3,138 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Palestine shows an unemployment rate of 6.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 17.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Palestine have an average one-way commute time of 22.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
16.3% of Palestine residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 19.7% White, 2.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 4.8% Asian residents, with 9.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Palestine, TX
Compared to national averages, Palestine has a median household income of $46,228 (38% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $153,400, which is 37% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,032 is 11% below the US average of $1,163. Within Texas, Palestine's income is 36% below the state average of $72,726, and home values are 28% below the state median of $211,769.
Why Live in Palestine, TX?
Palestine offers affordable housing with a median home value of $153,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,032/month, and short commute times averaging just 22.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($46,228) that falls below the national average. However, Palestine’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Palestine has a population of 18,888 with a median age of 35.4 years. Compare Palestine with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Texas.
Similar Cities Near Palestine
Cities in Texas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| La Marque | 18,833 | $70,632 | $189,400 | Compare |
| Seagoville | 18,968 | $68,020 | $221,300 | Compare |
| Brownwood | 18,805 | $47,821 | $123,700 | Compare |
| Crowley | 19,007 | $92,599 | $241,500 | Compare |
| Terrell | 19,019 | $63,795 | $190,000 | Compare |
| Steiner Ranch | 18,683 | $195,181 | $723,500 | Compare |
| Lakeway | 19,130 | $164,978 | $695,400 | Compare |
| Cinco Ranch | 19,139 | $157,395 | $459,500 | 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.
Compare Palestine With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Palestine
What is the population of Palestine, TX?
The population of Palestine, TX is 18,888 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Texas.
What is the median household income in Palestine?
The median household income in Palestine, TX is $46,228 per year, which is 38% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Palestine?
The median home value in Palestine, TX is $153,400, which is 37% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Palestine?
The median monthly rent in Palestine, TX is $1,032, which is 11% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Palestine?
The unemployment rate in Palestine, TX is 6.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Palestine, TX a good place to live?
Palestine offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 18,888 and a median age of 35.4, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Palestine, TX?
16.3% of residents in Palestine aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Palestine?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Palestine, TX: median home value is $153,400 (37% below national), median rent is $1,032/month, and median household income is $46,228. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Palestine?
The poverty rate in Palestine, TX is 17.5%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Palestine, TX?
Palestine's population is 19.7% White, 2.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 4.8% Asian, and 27.3% two or more races. 9.3% of residents are foreign-born.