Plains, TX
Population 1,190 · Texas
About Plains, TX
Plains is a small town located in Texas with a population of 1,190 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $74,187 per year, which is 1% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 25.7 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 Plains features a median home value of $112,500, which is 54% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Plains one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $858, 26% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 563 total housing units, 72% are owner-occupied (350 units) and 28% are renter-occupied (134 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Plains shows an unemployment rate of 6.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 21.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Plains have an average one-way commute time of 31.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
14.6% of Plains 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 51.3% White, 14.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.8% Asian residents, with 10.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Plains, TX
Compared to national averages, Plains has a median household income of $74,187 (1% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $112,500, which is 54% below the national median. Monthly rent at $858 is 26% below the US average of $1,163. Within Texas, Plains's income is 2% above the state average of $72,726, and home values are 47% below the state median of $211,769.
Why Live in Plains, TX?
Plains offers affordable housing with a median home value of $112,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $858/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($74,187) that falls below the national average. However, Plains’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Plains has a population of 1,190 with a median age of 25.7 years. Compare Plains with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Texas.
Similar Cities Near Plains
Cities in Texas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rankin | 1,189 | $72,083 | $119,000 | Compare |
| Muniz | 1,184 | $98,587 | $97,800 | Compare |
| Runge | 1,196 | $35,313 | $57,200 | Compare |
| Valley Mills | 1,183 | $42,188 | $129,700 | Compare |
| Clear Lake Shores | 1,182 | $111,563 | $448,500 | Compare |
| Lake Medina Shores | 1,198 | $44,926 | $158,700 | Compare |
| New London | 1,198 | $50,909 | $169,400 | Compare |
| Harper | 1,199 | $69,653 | $348,900 | 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 Plains With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Plains
What is the population of Plains, TX?
The population of Plains, TX is 1,190 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Texas.
What is the median household income in Plains?
The median household income in Plains, TX is $74,187 per year, which is 1% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Plains?
The median home value in Plains, TX is $112,500, which is 54% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Plains?
The median monthly rent in Plains, TX is $858, which is 26% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Plains?
The unemployment rate in Plains, TX is 6.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Plains, TX a good place to live?
Plains offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,190 and a median age of 25.7, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Plains, TX?
14.6% of residents in Plains 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 Plains?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Plains, TX: median home value is $112,500 (54% below national), median rent is $858/month, and median household income is $74,187. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Plains?
The poverty rate in Plains, TX is 21.7%, 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 Plains, TX?
Plains's population is 51.3% White, 14.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.8% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 10.0% of residents are foreign-born.