Duval County, Texas
Duval County is located in South Texas, about an hour west of Corpus Christi, and has a history filled with colorful stories, political controversies, and long-running land disputes. Its past has played an important role in shaping the county’s unique identity.
San Diego serves as the county seat—not the California city, but a distinctly Texan community with deep local roots. Hispanic heritage is an important part of everyday life here, reflected in the culture, traditions, and languages spoken throughout the county.
Ranching remains a longstanding way of life, while oil and gas production continue to contribute to the local economy. More recently, wind energy has become another visible part of the landscape.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Duval County |
| County Seat | San Diego |
| Population | Approximately 12,000 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | San Diego, Benavides, Freer, Realitos |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 59, State Highway 44, State Highway 16 |
| FIPS Code | 48-131 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 1,796 square miles (1,793 sq mi land, 3 sq mi water) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | McMullen County (North), Live Oak County (Northeast), Jim Wells County (East), Brooks County (Southeast), Jim Hogg County (South), Webb County (West), La Salle County (Northwest) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| State | Texas |
| Coordinates | 27°40’N, 98°27’W |
| Etymology | Named after Burr H. Duval, a soldier killed in the Goliad Massacre during the Texas Revolution |
| Major Landmarks | San Diego Courthouse, Duval County Historical Museum, Freer Oil Jubilee Park |
