Taft, TX
Population 2,847 · Texas
About Taft, TX
Taft is a small town located in Texas with a population of 2,847 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $67,431 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35 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 Taft features a median home value of $124,200, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Taft one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $980, 16% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,131 total housing units, 68% are owner-occupied (584 units) and 32% are renter-occupied (275 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Taft shows an unemployment rate of 7.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 23.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Taft have an average one-way commute time of 26.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
12.7% of Taft 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 71.5% White, 0.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 3.2% Asian residents, with 1.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Taft, TX
Compared to national averages, Taft has a median household income of $67,431 (10% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $124,200, which is 49% below the national median. Monthly rent at $980 is 16% below the US average of $1,163. Within Texas, Taft's income is 7% below the state average of $72,726, and home values are 41% below the state median of $211,769.
Why Live in Taft, TX?
Taft offers affordable housing with a median home value of $124,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $980/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($67,431) that falls below the national average. However, Taft’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Taft has a population of 2,847 with a median age of 35 years. Compare Taft with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Texas.
Similar Cities Near Taft
Cities in Texas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seagraves | 2,842 | $51,189 | $59,700 | Compare |
| South Padre Island | 2,852 | $61,578 | $498,800 | Compare |
| St. Hedwig | 2,839 | $117,617 | $290,800 | Compare |
| La Paloma | 2,836 | $60,333 | $79,500 | Compare |
| Midway South | 2,858 | $76,768 | $107,700 | Compare |
| Brazoria | 2,859 | $51,354 | $168,800 | Compare |
| Shady Shores | 2,860 | $158,333 | $461,100 | Compare |
| Roman Forest | 2,832 | $120,313 | $288,400 | 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 Taft With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Taft
What is the population of Taft, TX?
The population of Taft, TX is 2,847 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 Taft?
The median household income in Taft, TX is $67,431 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Taft?
The median home value in Taft, TX is $124,200, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Taft?
The median monthly rent in Taft, TX is $980, which is 16% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Taft?
The unemployment rate in Taft, TX is 7.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Taft, TX a good place to live?
Taft offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 2,847 and a median age of 35, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Taft, TX?
12.7% of residents in Taft 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 Taft?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Taft, TX: median home value is $124,200 (49% below national), median rent is $980/month, and median household income is $67,431. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Taft?
The poverty rate in Taft, TX is 23.4%, 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 Taft, TX?
Taft's population is 71.5% White, 0.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 3.2% Asian, and 0.7% two or more races. 1.1% of residents are foreign-born.