Penelope, TX
Population 223 · Texas
About Penelope, TX
Penelope is a small community located in Texas with a population of 223 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $65,938 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 42.7 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Penelope features a median home value of $96,300, which is 61% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Penelope one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 105 total housing units, 96% are owner-occupied (85 units) and 4% are renter-occupied (4 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Penelope shows an unemployment rate of 3.1%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 5.4%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Penelope have an average one-way commute time of 19.6 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
18.8% of Penelope 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 32.7% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 10.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Penelope, TX
Compared to national averages, Penelope has a median household income of $65,938 (12% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $96,300, which is 61% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Texas, Penelope's income is 9% below the state average of $72,726, and home values are 55% below the state median of $211,769.
Why Live in Penelope, TX?
Penelope offers affordable housing with a median home value of $96,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.1%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 5.4%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 19.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($65,938) that falls below the national average. However, Penelope’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Penelope has a population of 223 with a median age of 42.7 years. Compare Penelope with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Texas.
Similar Cities Near Penelope
Cities in Texas with a similar population size.
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 Penelope With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Penelope
What is the population of Penelope, TX?
The population of Penelope, TX is 223 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Texas.
What is the median household income in Penelope?
The median household income in Penelope, TX is $65,938 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Penelope?
The median home value in Penelope, TX is $96,300, which is 61% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Penelope?
The median monthly rent in Penelope, TX is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Penelope?
The unemployment rate in Penelope, TX is 3.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Penelope, TX a good place to live?
Penelope offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 223 and a median age of 42.7, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Penelope, TX?
18.8% of residents in Penelope 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 Penelope?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Penelope, TX: median home value is $96,300 (61% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $65,938. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Penelope?
The poverty rate in Penelope, TX is 5.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Penelope, TX?
Penelope's population is 32.7% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 10.3% of residents are foreign-born.