Zip Code 78542
TX · Population: 83,925
About Zip Code 78542
Zip code 78542 is located in Texas and is home to approximately 83,925 residents. It receives an overall grade of C (score: 48/100), based on safety, affordability, quality of life, and employment metrics.
This area experiences higher crime rates than the national average. Residents should be aware of safety considerations.
The median household income here is $51,979, with home values near $102,400 and rents around $837/month. Affordability is moderate compared to the rest of the country.
Educational attainment is below the national average, with 13.5% of adults holding a bachelor's degree or higher.
The unemployment rate of 9.2% is above the national average, indicating a weaker local job market.
Scores are percentile-based: a score of 85 means this zip code ranks better than 85% of all US zip codes on that dimension. Data is sourced from the US Census Bureau (ACS 5-year estimates) and the FBI Uniform Crime Report.
Demographics & Economics
Score Breakdown
| Dimension | Score | Grade | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | 37 | D | Lower crime = higher score |
| Affordability | 54 | C+ | Lower cost relative to income = higher |
| Quality of Life | 64 | B | Education, commute, ownership |
| Jobs & Economy | 36 | D | Lower unemployment = higher |
| Overall | 48 | C | Weighted average |
Methodology
All scores are percentile-based (0–100): a score of 85 means this zip code ranks better than 85% of all US zip codes on that metric. Safety uses FBI Uniform Crime Report state-level data (Phase 2 will add zip-level granularity). Economic and demographic data is from the US Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates (2022).