Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Palacios, TX
Thinking about moving to Palacios, TX? This welcoming Gulf Coast town has a population of 4,395 and offers affordable living with a median home price of $108,500 and average rent around $810. Commute times are short at just under 20 minutes, and you’ll enjoy a warm, sunny climate with over 60% sunny days each year. While property crime rates are higher than average, Palacios is known for its friendly community, proximity to nature, and small-town atmosphere. Local schools are accessible, and the cost of living is notably lower than national averages—making Palacios a great option for those seeking coastal Texas charm on a budget.
Demographics - Palacios, TX
Demographics - Palacios, TX
Palacios, TX is home to about 4,395 residents and features a diverse community, with nearly half identifying as White and a significant 32.5% speaking a language other than English at home. The median age is 36.9, reflecting a balanced mix of families and working professionals. Its moderate population density and close gender ratio contribute to a welcoming small-town feel.
Population:
4,395
Density:
1,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.9
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
32.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
45.2%
Black:
6.7%
Asian:
8.1%
Others:
40.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Palacios, TX?
Living in Palacios is budget-friendly, with a median house value of $108,500 and average rent at $810, both well below national averages. The cost of living index stands at 82.0, making everyday expenses like groceries, utilities, and transportation more affordable for residents. Texas's zero state income tax further stretches your dollar here.
Median House Value:
$108,500
Gross Rent:
$810
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$134
Auto Insurance:
$1,210
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$350
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.0
Grocery:
90.1
Housing:
65.3
Utilities:
93.4
Transportation:
89.2
Health Care:
92.8
Miscellaneous:
85.7
Crime
Is Palacios, TX a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Palacios are somewhat higher than the national average, with a property crime rate of 2,230 per 100,000 and a 1 in 45 chance of experiencing property crime. Violent crime is less common, with a 1 in 327 chance, but residents should still take standard precautions. The community remains close-knit, contributing to a sense of neighborly vigilance.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
306
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,230
Crime Index:
2,536
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 327
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 45
Weather
What is the weather like in Palacios, TX year-round?
Palacios enjoys a mild coastal climate, with winter lows around 45°F and summer highs reaching 92°F. The area receives about 44 inches of rainfall annually and sees sunshine about 60% of the year, making it ideal for enjoying outdoor activities along the Gulf Coast. Seasonal changes are gentle, offering comfortable weather most of the year.
Winter
Min:
45°F
Max:
65°F
Spring
Min:
58°F
Max:
78°F
Summer
Min:
75°F
Max:
92°F
Fall
Min:
60°F
Max:
80°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
44.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
Local households in Palacios typically earn a median income of $34,900, with a poverty rate of 24.3% reflecting some economic diversity. The average commute is just under 20 minutes, and most residents rely on personal vehicles rather than public transportation. The community values education, with 76.9% of adults holding at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$34,900
Household Income:
$38,700
Family Income:
$41,200
Per Capita Income:
$18,100
Income Male:
$29,800
Income Female:
$22,700
Poverty Rate:
24.3%
Non English Speakers:
32.5%
Rent:
$810
Unemployment Rate:
5.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.4%
Commute Time:
19.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
76.9%
Bachelors or More:
9.8%
Education
How are the schools in Palacios, TX?
Palacios offers accessible public education with schools like Palacios High School and East Side Intermediate, both featuring favorable student-teacher ratios around 12:1. While there are no private schools in town, higher education is available nearby at Wharton County Junior College, just 23 miles away. The local schools support a close-knit learning environment.
Public Schools
Name:
Palacios High School
Street:
100 Shark Dr
Phone:
361-972-2571
Students:
380
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.4
Name:
East Side Intermediate
Street:
901 Second St
Phone:
361-972-2546
Students:
420
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.1
Colleges
Name:
Wharton County Junior College
City:
Bay City
State:
TX
Distance:
23 miles
Students:
6,400
Healthcare
Palacios residents have access to essential healthcare services, including the Palacios Community Medical Center and nearby Matagorda Regional Medical Center, both offering emergency care. There are about 1.1 physicians per 1,000 residents, and 73.5% of the population has health insurance coverage. Healthcare access is reliable for a town of its size.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Palacios Community Medical Center
Address:
311 Green Ave, Palacios, TX 77465
Phone:
(361) 972-2511
Type:
General & Outpatient
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Matagorda Regional Medical Center
Address:
104 7th St, Bay City, TX 77414
Phone:
(979) 245-6383
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
73.5%
Health Care Index:
69.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Palacios, TX?
The local housing market in Palacios is highly affordable, with a median home price of $108,500 and an average two-bedroom rent of $810. Homeownership is common, with over 61% of homes owner-occupied, and the area has a low foreclosure rate. Modest home appreciation and a stable rental market make it attractive for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$108,500
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$810
Owner Occupied Rate:
61.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing in Palacios are managed by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, headquartered in Austin. Residents can access services online or by phone, ensuring convenient support for all motor vehicle needs. The DMV provides resources for new residents and current drivers alike.
State:
Texas
Department:
Texas Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
4000 Jackson Ave., Austin, TX 78731
Phone:
1-888-368-4689
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.