Population overview
Nueces County is home to roughly 352,992 people, making up about 1.11% of the total population of Texas. Within the Central Texas region, it ranks #5 of 76 counties by population. The combination of 836 square miles of land and 352,992 residents yields a density of about 422.2 people per square mile — typical of suburban Texas, with a mix of subdivisions, commercial corridors, and remaining rural land.
How Nueces County compares
Compared with the other 253 Texas counties, Nueces 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 Nueces |
|---|---|---|
| Nueces County | 352,992 | — |
| Central Texas region average | 81,016 | -77% |
| Texas county median | 18,916 | -95% |
| Largest in Texas (Harris) | 5,045,026 | +1329% |
Neighboring county populations
Nueces County shares borders with 4 counties. Comparing population across an adjacent corridor often reveals commuting patterns, school-district pull, and economic gravity.
| County | Seat | Population | Density |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Patricio County | Sinton | 72,053 | 104.1 |
| Jim Wells County | Alice | 38,804 | 44.9 |
| Kleberg County | Kingsville | 30,315 | 34.8 |
| Aransas County | Rockport | 26,146 | 103.8 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the population of Nueces County, Texas?+
Nueces County has an estimated population of 352,992 residents, based on the most recent U.S. Census data.
What is the population density of Nueces County?+
Nueces County has a population density of approximately 422.2 people per square mile across its 836 sq mi of land area — characteristic of a suburban county.
Where does Nueces County rank among Texas counties by population?+
Nueces County ranks #17 out of 254 Texas counties by total population, accounting for roughly 1.11% of the state's total population.
What is the most populous county near Nueces County?+
Among the 4 counties bordering Nueces, San Patricio County is the most populous with about 72,053 residents.
How is Nueces 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.