As of the census of 2000, there were 18,813 people, 7,110 households, and 4,664 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,493.2 people per square mile (576.5/km²). There were 8,169 housing units at an average density of 648.4/sq mi (250.3/km²). The racial makeup of the city was 82.74% White, 5.51% African American, 0.61% Native American, 0.60% Asian, 8.47% from other races, and 2.07% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 21.34% of the population. NOTE: The 2000 census figures were adjusted later to reflect a more accurate figure of just over 20,000 people. The city has been economically designated a Microplex.
There were 7,110 households out of which 32.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.5% were married couples living together, 13.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 34.4% were non-families. 30.1% of all households were made up of individuals and 13.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.46 and the average family size was 3.05.
In the city the population was spread out with 27.5% under the age of 18, 12.8% from 18 to 24, 24.3% from 25 to 44, 19.2% from 45 to 64, and 16.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 33 years. For every 100 females there were 90.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 84.1 males.
The median income for a household in the city was $27,325, and the median income for a family was $33,991. Males had a median income of $29,090 versus $18,905 for females. The per capita income for the city was $14,158. About 18.2% of families and 21.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 28.9% of those under age 18 and 12.8% of those age 65 or over.
Brownwood is served by the following U.S. Highways: US 67, US 84, US 183, and US 377. The BNSF Railway also serves Brownwood. The railroad was a major player in the development and growth of the city. Brownwood is also served by Brownwood Regional Airport. The airport currently has two runways: 17/35, a 5599 x 150 ft. / 1707 x 46 m asphalt runway (30,000 lb per wheel), and 13/31, a 4596 x 100 ft. / 1401 x 30 m asphalt runway (25,000 lb per wheel). Mostly cargo and private air operations take place at the airport, although in the past Mesa Airlines offered regional connections to other locations.