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Port Lavaca, TX

Frequently asked questions

Port Lavaca, TX

Port Lavaca is a city in Calhoun County, located in the U.S. state of Texas. The population was 12,248 at the 2010 census and 11,557 at the 2020 census. It is the county seat of Calhoun County and part of the Port Lavaca, Texas micropolitan statistical area. Port Lavaca is 130 miles (210 km) southwest of Houston.

Port Lavaca is located in northern Calhoun County on the west side of Lavaca Bay, an arm of Matagorda Bay. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 14.1 square miles (36.5 km²), of which 10.2 square miles (26.3 km²) is land and 3.9 square miles (10.2 km²), or 28.04%, is water.

Port Lavaca was originally known as Lavaca. The town would quickly grow as a result of the Linnville Raid of 1840. This raid saw the town of Linville decimated by the Comanche tribe and caused former residents of the town to settle in what is now Port Lavaca. Thomas McConnell would purchase a section of land from Isidro Benavides, and establish the town using this land.

As of the census of 2000, there were 12,035 people, 4,189 households, and 3,133 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,229.9 inhabitants per square mile (474.9/km²). There were 4,791 housing units at an average density of 489.6 per square mile (189.0/km²). The racial makeup of the city was 71.95% White, 4.05% African American, 0.47% Native American, 3.96% Asian, 0.08% Pacific Islander, 16.92% from other races, and 2.58% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 50.11% of the population.

Health and wellness are integral to the lifestyle in Port Lavaca, with the city offering various amenities to support residents' well-being. Memorial Medical Center, which is located in the city of Port Lavaca is a small hospital that serves the city, and county as well. Explore the parks, facilities, and programs offered by the Port Lavaca Parks and Recreation Department. These spaces provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, sports, and picnicking. Join local fitness centers and gyms to participate in exercise programs, fitness classes, and strength training. Some popular options include the YMCA in Port Lavaca and Anytime Fitness. Discover the walking and biking trails in and around Port Lavaca, such as the Little Chocolate Bayou Park Loop and Calhoun Loop. These trails offer opportunities for outdoor exercise and enjoyment of nature.

Top sites in Port Lavaca, TX include Calhoun County Museum, Lighthouse Beach, and Halfmoon Reef Lighthouse.

Population: 12,248 (2021). Elevation:16 ft (5 m). Area: 14.11 sq mi (36.54 km²). ZIP Code: 77979. Area code(s): 361.

FAQs

What is Port Lavaca, TX known for?

Port Lavaca is probably best known for its world-class saltwater fishing. In addition to its beaches, the Port Lavaca area has numerous piers and a marina from where you can go fishing. The lighted piers at Lighthouse Beach and Bayfront Peninsula provide the perfect above-water platform to fish throughout the year.

What is it like to live in Port Lavaca, TX?

Living in Port Lavaca offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. Many families live in Port Lavaca and residents tend to have moderate political views. The public schools in Port Lavaca are above average.

What is the crime rate in Port Lavaca, TX?

The crime rate in Port Lavaca is considerably higher than the national average across all communities in America from the largest to the smallest, although at 20 crimes per one thousand residents, it is not among the communities with the very highest crime rate. The chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in Port Lavaca is 1 in 49. Based on FBI crime data, Port Lavaca is not one of the safest communities in America. Relative to Texas, Port Lavaca has a crime rate that is higher than 76% of the state's cities and towns of all sizes.

Sources

Wikipedia 

City of Port Lavaca

Memorial Medical Center

Port Lavaca Parks and Recreation Department

YMCA in Port Lavaca 

Anytime Fitness

Little Chocolate Bayou Park Loop 

Calhoun Loop

Calhoun County Museum

Lighthouse Beach

Halfmoon Reef Lighthouse

Tour Texas

Niche

Neighborhoodscout

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