Population overview
Hays County is home to roughly 304,390 people, making up about 0.96% of the total population of Texas. Within the Central Texas region, it ranks #6 of 76 counties by population. The combination of 678 square miles of land and 304,390 residents yields a density of about 449.0 people per square mile — typical of suburban Texas, with a mix of subdivisions, commercial corridors, and remaining rural land.
How Hays County compares
Compared with the other 253 Texas counties, Hays County sits in the top 10% of the population distribution. It belongs to the upper tier of Texas counties — sizable enough to support diverse local services and infrastructure.
| Comparison | Population | vs Hays |
|---|---|---|
| Hays County | 304,390 | — |
| Central Texas region average | 81,016 | -73% |
| Texas county median | 18,916 | -94% |
| Largest in Texas (Harris) | 5,045,026 | +1557% |
Neighboring county populations
Hays County shares borders with 5 counties. Comparing population across an adjacent corridor often reveals commuting patterns, school-district pull, and economic gravity.
| County | Seat | Population | Density |
|---|---|---|---|
| Travis County | Austin | 1,389,670 | 1405.1 |
| Comal County | New Braunfels | 209,166 | 372.2 |
| Guadalupe County | Seguin | 201,111 | 282.9 |
| Caldwell County | Lockhart | 55,150 | 101.0 |
| Blanco County | Johnson City | 13,581 | 19.1 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the population of Hays County, Texas?+
Hays County has an estimated population of 304,390 residents, based on the most recent U.S. Census data.
What is the population density of Hays County?+
Hays County has a population density of approximately 449.0 people per square mile across its 678 sq mi of land area — characteristic of a suburban county.
Where does Hays County rank among Texas counties by population?+
Hays County ranks #19 out of 254 Texas counties by total population, accounting for roughly 0.96% of the state's total population.
What is the most populous county near Hays County?+
Among the 5 counties bordering Hays, Travis County is the most populous with about 1,389,670 residents.
How is Hays County's population measured?+
Population figures are sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau — the decennial census and annual American Community Survey (ACS) population estimates. See our methodology for full sourcing.