Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Port Lavaca, TX
Considering a move to Port Lavaca, TX? With a population of just over 11,000, Port Lavaca offers affordable coastal living with median home prices around $175,000 and average rents at $1,050. Residents enjoy a low cost of living, short average commutes of 17.5 minutes, and plenty of sunny, warm weather. While crime rates are moderate, the city features solid local schools, access to healthcare, and a laid-back lifestyle on the Texas Gulf Coast—perfect for those seeking a tight-knit community and seaside charm.
Demographics - Port Lavaca, TX
Demographics - Port Lavaca, TX
Port Lavaca is home to approximately 11,260 residents, offering a balanced gender ratio and a median age of 35.2 years. The city features a diverse community, with nearly half of the population identifying as non-white and over 30% speaking a language other than English at home. This diversity creates a welcoming and multicultural atmosphere for newcomers.
Population:
11,260
Density:
1,160 per sq mi
Median Age:
35.2
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
30.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
44.1%
Black:
5.0%
Asian:
2.1%
Others:
48.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Port Lavaca, TX?
Port Lavaca boasts an affordable cost of living with a median home value of $175,000 and average rents around $1,050. Living expenses such as utilities and groceries are generally below the national average, making it an attractive location for budget-conscious individuals and families. With no state income tax and a cost of living index of 87.5, residents can enjoy more for less.
Median House Value:
$175,000
Gross Rent:
$1,050
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,460
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,250
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
87.5
Grocery:
92.1
Housing:
69.3
Utilities:
101.7
Transportation:
97.4
Health Care:
95.2
Miscellaneous:
91.5
Crime
Is Port Lavaca, TX a safe place to live?
The city experiences moderate crime rates, with about 235 violent crimes and 2,150 property crimes per 100,000 residents annually. This translates to a 1 in 425 chance of being affected by violent crime, and a 1 in 46 chance for property crime. While safety is a consideration, many residents find the overall atmosphere to be friendly and community-oriented.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
235
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,150
Crime Index:
2,385
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 425
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 46
Weather
What is the weather like in Port Lavaca, TX year-round?
Port Lavaca enjoys a mild coastal climate with warm summers reaching highs of 93°F and mild winters with lows averaging 47°F. Residents benefit from about 65% sunny days each year and an average annual rainfall of 42 inches, creating an inviting environment for outdoor activities. The pleasant weather is a key draw for those seeking year-round warmth and sunshine.
Winter
Min:
47°F
Max:
67°F
Spring
Min:
62°F
Max:
82°F
Summer
Min:
76°F
Max:
93°F
Fall
Min:
65°F
Max:
83°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
42 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
65%
Neighbors
Local households earn a median income of $56,900, with a family median income of $64,200 and a per capita income of $23,500. About 17% of residents live below the poverty line, and the area has a modest unemployment rate of 6.1%. Most neighbors enjoy short commutes and a strong sense of community, although educational attainment is moderate with just under 14% holding a bachelor's degree or higher.
Median Income:
$29,000
Household Income:
$56,900
Family Income:
$64,200
Per Capita Income:
$23,500
Income Male:
$39,800
Income Female:
$29,400
Poverty Rate:
17.1%
Non English Speakers:
30.2%
Rent:
$1,050
Unemployment Rate:
6.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
17.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
77.2%
Bachelors or More:
13.7%
Education
How are the schools in Port Lavaca, TX?
Families in Port Lavaca have access to a variety of educational options, including public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios and a private Catholic school. Higher education opportunities are nearby, with Victoria College’s Calhoun Center just two miles away and the University of Houston-Victoria within a short drive. The city supports a well-rounded educational environment from elementary through college levels.
Public Schools
Name:
Port Lavaca Junior High School
Street:
1301 Travis St
Phone:
361-552-3781
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.6
Name:
H.J. Williams Elementary School
Street:
163 Elementary Dr
Phone:
361-552-3321
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Private Schools
Name:
Our Lady of the Gulf Catholic School
Street:
301 S San Antonio St
Phone:
361-552-6140
Students:
150
Colleges
Name:
Victoria College - Calhoun Center
City:
Port Lavaca
State:
TX
Distance:
2 miles
Students:
350
Name:
University of Houston-Victoria
City:
Victoria
State:
TX
Distance:
32 miles
Students:
4,300
Healthcare
Healthcare needs are served locally by Memorial Medical Center, which offers general and emergency services. With 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 85% of the population insured, most basic medical needs are met within the community. The city’s healthcare index reflects accessible care for families and individuals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Memorial Medical Center - Port Lavaca
Address:
815 N Virginia St, Port Lavaca, TX 77979
Phone:
(361) 552-6713
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
84.6%
Health Care Index:
66.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Port Lavaca, TX?
The housing market in Port Lavaca is affordable, with a median home price of $175,000 and around 62% of residents owning their homes. Rental options are readily available, with average two-bedroom rents at $1,050 and a rental vacancy rate of 9.2%. Modest appreciation rates and low foreclosure levels make it a stable choice for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$175,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,050
Owner Occupied Rate:
62.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Port Lavaca residents are served by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, with the main office located in Austin and accessible online or by phone. DMV services include vehicle registration, driver licensing, and title transfers, ensuring convenient support for local drivers. Helpful resources are available through the official state website.
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.