San Marcos, TX
Population 68,920 · Texas
About San Marcos, TX
San Marcos is a mid-sized city located in Texas with a population of 68,920 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $51,030 per year, which is 32% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 25.5 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 San Marcos features a median home value of $269,700, which is 10% above the national median of $244,900. This positions San Marcos in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,299, 12% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 29,892 total housing units, 30% are owner-occupied (8,408 units) and 70% are renter-occupied (19,198 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in San Marcos shows an unemployment rate of 6.1%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 26.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in San Marcos have an average one-way commute time of 24.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
37.3% of San Marcos residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 34.2% White, 3.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.8% Black or African American, and 6.5% Asian residents, with 8.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in San Marcos, TX
Compared to national averages, San Marcos has a median household income of $51,030 (32% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $269,700, which is 10% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,299 is 12% above the US average of $1,163. Within Texas, San Marcos's income is 30% below the state average of $72,726, and home values are 27% above the state median of $211,769.
Why Live in San Marcos, TX?
San Marcos offers a well-educated community where 37.3% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and short commute times averaging just 24.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($51,030) that falls below the national average. However, as a mid-sized city, San Marcos provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
San Marcos has a population of 68,920 with a median age of 25.5 years. Compare San Marcos with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Texas.
Similar Cities Near San Marcos
Cities in Texas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leander | 67,880 | $140,180 | $470,700 | Compare |
| North Richland Hills | 70,338 | $93,434 | $324,800 | Compare |
| Spring | 67,103 | $86,888 | $221,300 | Compare |
| Harlingen | 71,669 | $55,891 | $125,700 | Compare |
| Victoria | 65,514 | $68,233 | $193,200 | Compare |
| Pflugerville | 65,162 | $112,656 | $354,900 | Compare |
| Rowlett | 64,139 | $113,600 | $342,400 | Compare |
| Missouri City | 75,234 | $96,746 | $281,600 | 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 San Marcos With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about San Marcos
What is the population of San Marcos, TX?
The population of San Marcos, TX is 68,920 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 San Marcos?
The median household income in San Marcos, TX is $51,030 per year, which is 32% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in San Marcos?
The median home value in San Marcos, TX is $269,700, which is 10% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in San Marcos?
The median monthly rent in San Marcos, TX is $1,299, which is 12% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in San Marcos?
The unemployment rate in San Marcos, TX is 6.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is San Marcos, TX a good place to live?
San Marcos offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 68,920 and a median age of 25.5, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is San Marcos, TX?
37.3% of residents in San Marcos aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in San Marcos?
Key cost-of-living indicators for San Marcos, TX: median home value is $269,700 (10% above national), median rent is $1,299/month, and median household income is $51,030. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.3x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in San Marcos?
The poverty rate in San Marcos, TX is 26.7%, 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 San Marcos, TX?
San Marcos's population is 34.2% White, 3.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.8% Black or African American, 6.5% Asian, and 5.2% two or more races. 8.2% of residents are foreign-born.