Population overview
Hidalgo County is home to roughly 921,549 people, making up about 2.91% of the total population of Texas. Within the South Texas region, it ranks #2 of 26 counties by population. The combination of 1,569 square miles of land and 921,549 residents yields a density of about 587.3 people per square mile — typical of suburban Texas, with a mix of subdivisions, commercial corridors, and remaining rural land.
How Hidalgo County compares
Compared with the other 253 Texas counties, Hidalgo County sits in the top 10% of the population distribution. It is one of the top-tier urban counties driving Texas's overall growth and economy.
| Comparison | Population | vs Hidalgo |
|---|---|---|
| Hidalgo County | 921,549 | — |
| South Texas region average | 157,697 | -83% |
| Texas county median | 18,916 | -98% |
| Largest in Texas (Harris) | 5,045,026 | +447% |
Neighboring county populations
Hidalgo 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cameron County | Brownsville | 433,946 | 479.0 |
| Starr County | Rio Grande City | 66,319 | 54.2 |
| Willacy County | Raymondville | 19,971 | 33.5 |
| Brooks County | Falfurrias | 6,579 | 7.0 |
| Kenedy County | Sarita | 319 | 0.2 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the population of Hidalgo County, Texas?+
Hidalgo County has an estimated population of 921,549 residents, based on the most recent U.S. Census data.
What is the population density of Hidalgo County?+
Hidalgo County has a population density of approximately 587.3 people per square mile across its 1,569 sq mi of land area — characteristic of a suburban county.
Where does Hidalgo County rank among Texas counties by population?+
Hidalgo County ranks #9 out of 254 Texas counties by total population, accounting for roughly 2.91% of the state's total population.
What is the most populous county near Hidalgo County?+
Among the 5 counties bordering Hidalgo, Cameron County is the most populous with about 433,946 residents.
How is Hidalgo 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.