Compared to non-border regions in Texas, the border region exhibits lower levels of infant mortality, heart disease, and stroke.
However, concerningly, there are higher rates of obesity, diabetes, cervical cancer, and cesarean births. The risk of certain infectious diseases, such as tuberculosis and Zika, is also elevated.
A significant portion of the population lacks access to primary, preventative, and specialized healthcare services.
The table below provides a comparative overview of key demographic and health-related aspects between the border and non-border areas of Texas.
Demographics of Border and Non-Border Areas in Texas
| Aspect | Texas Border Region | Texas Non-Border Region |
|---|---|---|
| Population Size | 2.8 million | 27.7 million |
| Population Under 18 Years Old | 29% | 25% |
| Hispanic Ethnicity | 88% | 35% |
| Below Poverty Level | 24% | 16% |
| Uninsured Individuals | 27% | 17% |
| Do Not Speak English Very Well | 30% | 12% |
| Individuals with at Least High School Diploma | 73% | 86% |
| Foreign-Born Individuals | 24% | 16% |
Sources: Population Size, Texas Demographic Center Population Estimates Program, January 1, 2024. Most recent estimates available as of January 8, 2025.
For all other information, U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2018-2022. Percentages computed from the S1701 Poverty Status in the Past 12 Months, S2701 Selected Characteristics of Health Insurance Coverage in the United States, S1501 Educational Attainment, B05012 Selected Characteristics of Native and Foreign-Born Populations 5-year estimates. Most recent estimates available as of April 3, 2024. https://data.census.gov/cedsci/
*Health insurance status calculated for civilian noninstitutionalized population.
For more comprehensive border health data, please visit the Border Health Data webpage.
