Plainview, TX
Population 19,893 · Texas
About Plainview, TX
Plainview is a mid-sized city located in Texas with a population of 19,893 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $45,991 per year, which is 39% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 32 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 Plainview features a median home value of $107,800, which is 56% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Plainview one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $811, 30% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 8,373 total housing units, 51% are owner-occupied (3,538 units) and 49% are renter-occupied (3,460 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Plainview shows an unemployment rate of 5.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 22.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Plainview have an average one-way commute time of 18 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
15.7% of Plainview 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 53.4% White, 3.4% Hispanic or Latino, 1.0% Black or African American, and 11.1% Asian residents, with 11.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Plainview, TX
Compared to national averages, Plainview has a median household income of $45,991 (39% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $107,800, which is 56% below the national median. Monthly rent at $811 is 30% below the US average of $1,163. Within Texas, Plainview's income is 37% below the state average of $72,726, and home values are 49% below the state median of $211,769.
Why Live in Plainview, TX?
Plainview offers affordable housing with a median home value of $107,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $811/month, and short commute times averaging just 18 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($45,991) that falls below the national average. However, Plainview’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Plainview has a population of 19,893 with a median age of 32 years. Compare Plainview with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Texas.
Similar Cities Near Plainview
Cities in Texas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Universal City | 19,853 | $75,439 | $249,400 | Compare |
| Alamo | 20,008 | $54,234 | $119,300 | Compare |
| Angleton | 19,597 | $83,981 | $187,400 | Compare |
| Boerne | 19,509 | $86,838 | $437,100 | Compare |
| Portland | 20,369 | $81,944 | $226,900 | Compare |
| Alton | 19,205 | $48,777 | $126,600 | Compare |
| Orange | 19,178 | $60,183 | $147,200 | 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 Plainview With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Plainview
What is the population of Plainview, TX?
The population of Plainview, TX is 19,893 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 Plainview?
The median household income in Plainview, TX is $45,991 per year, which is 39% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Plainview?
The median home value in Plainview, TX is $107,800, which is 56% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Plainview?
The median monthly rent in Plainview, TX is $811, which is 30% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Plainview?
The unemployment rate in Plainview, TX is 5.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Plainview, TX a good place to live?
Plainview offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 19,893 and a median age of 32, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Plainview, TX?
15.7% of residents in Plainview 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 Plainview?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Plainview, TX: median home value is $107,800 (56% below national), median rent is $811/month, and median household income is $45,991. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Plainview?
The poverty rate in Plainview, TX is 22.7%, 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 Plainview, TX?
Plainview's population is 53.4% White, 3.4% Hispanic or Latino, 1.0% Black or African American, 11.1% Asian, and 3.3% two or more races. 11.1% of residents are foreign-born.