South Houston, TX
Population 16,017 · Texas
About South Houston, TX
South Houston is a mid-sized city located in Texas with a population of 16,017 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $52,611 per year, which is 30% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 30.4 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 South Houston features a median home value of $176,100, which is 28% below the national median of $244,900. This positions South Houston in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,174, 1% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 5,529 total housing units, 54% are owner-occupied (2,718 units) and 46% are renter-occupied (2,302 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in South Houston shows an unemployment rate of 9.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 23.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in South Houston have an average one-way commute time of 31.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
9.2% of South Houston 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 82.7% White, 1.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.5% Black or African American, and 6.7% Asian residents, with 31.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in South Houston, TX
Compared to national averages, South Houston has a median household income of $52,611 (30% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $176,100, which is 28% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,174 is 1% above the US average of $1,163. Within Texas, South Houston's income is 28% below the state average of $72,726, and home values are 17% below the state median of $211,769.
Why Live in South Houston, TX?
South Houston offers affordable housing with a median home value of $176,100, below the US average of $244,900.
Potential considerations include median household income ($52,611) that falls below the national average. However, South Houston’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
South Houston has a population of 16,017 with a median age of 30.4 years. Compare South Houston with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Texas.
Similar Cities Near South Houston
Cities in Texas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Highland Village | 16,004 | $164,459 | $493,400 | Compare |
| Gatesville | 16,058 | $54,802 | $162,000 | Compare |
| Mount Pleasant | 16,061 | $53,039 | $160,500 | Compare |
| Red Oak | 15,909 | $104,125 | $318,200 | Compare |
| Rendon | 15,894 | $107,618 | $328,100 | Compare |
| Live Oak | 15,875 | $78,092 | $227,800 | Compare |
| Sulphur Springs | 16,185 | $56,457 | $188,200 | Compare |
| Hewitt | 16,244 | $83,798 | $252,200 | 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 South Houston With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about South Houston
What is the population of South Houston, TX?
The population of South Houston, TX is 16,017 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 South Houston?
The median household income in South Houston, TX is $52,611 per year, which is 30% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in South Houston?
The median home value in South Houston, TX is $176,100, which is 28% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in South Houston?
The median monthly rent in South Houston, TX is $1,174, which is 1% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in South Houston?
The unemployment rate in South Houston, TX is 9.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is South Houston, TX a good place to live?
South Houston offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 16,017 and a median age of 30.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is South Houston, TX?
9.2% of residents in South Houston 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 South Houston?
Key cost-of-living indicators for South Houston, TX: median home value is $176,100 (28% below national), median rent is $1,174/month, and median household income is $52,611. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in South Houston?
The poverty rate in South Houston, TX is 23.5%, 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 South Houston, TX?
South Houston's population is 82.7% White, 1.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.5% Black or African American, 6.7% Asian, and 2.2% two or more races. 31.3% of residents are foreign-born.