Hidalgo County, Texas Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Hidalgo County is located in Texas with a total population of 880,921. It is the 8th most populous county out of 254 in Texas. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Hidalgo County is 30.3 years. This is 15% lower than the state median of 35.5 years. With 31.4% of the population under 18, Hidalgo County has a notably young demographic profile, suggesting a family-oriented community.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Hidalgo County is $52,281. This is 31% lower than the state median of $76,292. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 33% lower. The poverty rate stands at 27.2%. This is 97% higher than the state poverty rate of 13.8%. With more than one in five residents living below the poverty line, economic hardship is a significant challenge for the community. The unemployment rate is 7.6%. This is 47% higher than the state rate of 5.1%. The median home value is $124,000. Housing costs are 52% lower than the state median of $260,400. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.4x, Hidalgo County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 67.6% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 8% higher than the state average of 62.6%.

Race & Ethnicity

Hidalgo County has a predominantly Hispanic or Latino population, comprising 91.9% of all residents. White (non-Hispanic) residents account for 6.1%. The White (non-Hispanic) population (6.1%) is well below the state average of 39.9%. The Black or African American population (0.5%) is well below the state average of 11.9%. The Hispanic or Latino population is significantly higher than the state average (91.9% vs 39.5%). The Asian population (1.0%) is well below the state average of 5.3%.

Education

20.3% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 39% lower than the state rate of 33.1%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 69.3%.