Demographics

As of 2023, Cameron County, TX, has an estimated population of about 425,000. Approximately 51% are female and 49% male. The median age is around 32 years. Racial and ethnic distribution is predominantly Hispanic or Latino (89%), with non-Hispanic White at 8%, Black or African American at 1%, and Asian at 1%. This youthful, primarily Hispanic population influences the county's cultural and social landscape.

Elections

Cameron County, TX, had over 206,000 registered voters for the 2022 general election. Voters participate in local, state, and federal elections, with results showing Democrats typically winning countywide (e.g., 58% for Biden in 2020). The county offers about 60 polling locations, including early voting sites. Key issues are border security, education, and healthcare. Elections are administered by the County Elections Department, with parties like Democrats and Republicans active. Voter turnout was about 51% in 2022. Registration, polling site information, and sample ballots are accessible online through the county elections office.

Education, Employment and Housing

Cameron County, TX, has over 50 public high schools, with a high school graduation rate around 80%. About 17% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The county offers various educational programs, including career and technical education, AP, and dual-credit options. School safety ratings are generally average, with ongoing improvements. South Texas ISD campuses, among others, often score above 80/100 in state accountability ratings. Adult education programs are available through local colleges and community centers, supporting GED and workforce training.

As of early 2024, Cameron County, TX, has an employment rate close to 94%, supporting approximately 167,000 employed individuals. Major industries include Health Care & Social Assistance (21%), Retail Trade (12%), and Educational Services (11%). Top occupation types are Office & Administrative Support (15%), Sales (12%), and Management (10%). Over 83% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 23 minutes, mostly within the county—particularly in Brownsville, Harlingen, and San Benito.

Cameron County, TX, has a homeownership rate of about 63%, with median home values around $143,000 and median rents near $900/month. Popular housing types include single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments, mainly in neighborhoods like Brownsville, Harlingen, and San Benito. Property values have risen approximately 7% year-over-year (2023-2024), reflecting a growing market. Property tax rates average 2.1% of assessed value, contributing to overall affordability compared to larger Texas metros.

County Crime & Safety

Cameron County, TX, has seen a moderate crime rate, with a 2023 overall crime rate of about 29.6 per 1,000 residents—slightly above the Texas average. Property crimes, such as burglary and theft, make up most reported incidents, with violent crime at approximately 4.2 per 1,000 residents. Law enforcement agencies encourage community reporting; in 2022, over 7,000 crimes were reported countywide. Recent initiatives have enhanced police presence and neighborhood watch programs, contributing to a gradual decline in major offenses and improved community safety.