Preston, TX
Population 1,617 · Texas
About Preston, TX
Preston is a small town located in Texas with a population of 1,617 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $64,803 per year, which is 14% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 52 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 Preston features a median home value of $184,600, which is 25% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Preston in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,704, 47% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,336 total housing units, 68% are owner-occupied (491 units) and 32% are renter-occupied (232 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Preston shows an unemployment rate of 9.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 5.2%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Preston have an average one-way commute time of 38.4 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
11.3% of Preston 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 2.4% White, 6.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Preston, TX
Compared to national averages, Preston has a median household income of $64,803 (14% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $184,600, which is 25% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,704 is 47% above the US average of $1,163. Within Texas, Preston's income is 11% below the state average of $72,726, and home values are 13% below the state median of $211,769.
Why Live in Preston, TX?
Preston offers affordable housing with a median home value of $184,600, below the US average of $244,900, and a low poverty rate of 5.2%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($64,803) that falls below the national average. However, Preston’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Preston has a population of 1,617 with a median age of 52 years. Compare Preston with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Texas.
Similar Cities Near Preston
Cities in Texas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rio Vista | 1,616 | $70,587 | $191,200 | Compare |
| Ivanhoe | 1,619 | $42,917 | $85,500 | Compare |
| Mustang Ridge | 1,610 | $91,765 | $238,600 | Compare |
| West Sharyland | 1,624 | $43,288 | $88,600 | Compare |
| Whitewright | 1,610 | $54,063 | $207,500 | Compare |
| Rosanky | 1,609 | $104,628 | $293,900 | Compare |
| Cottonwood Shores | 1,626 | $64,716 | $236,200 | Compare |
| Palmer | 1,606 | $27,418 | $52,500 | 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 Preston With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Preston
What is the population of Preston, TX?
The population of Preston, TX is 1,617 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 Preston?
The median household income in Preston, TX is $64,803 per year, which is 14% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Preston?
The median home value in Preston, TX is $184,600, which is 25% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Preston?
The median monthly rent in Preston, TX is $1,704, which is 47% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Preston?
The unemployment rate in Preston, TX is 9.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Preston, TX a good place to live?
Preston offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,617 and a median age of 52, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Preston, TX?
11.3% of residents in Preston 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 Preston?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Preston, TX: median home value is $184,600 (25% below national), median rent is $1,704/month, and median household income is $64,803. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Preston?
The poverty rate in Preston, TX is 5.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Preston, TX?
Preston's population is 2.4% White, 6.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 1.9% of residents are foreign-born.