Polk County

As of the 2020 census, Polk County, Florida, has a population of approximately 725,046 residents. The racial composition includes 74.8% White, 15.6% Black or African American, 3.0% Asian, and 26.6% Hispanic or Latino of any race. The median age is 41.2 years. There are around 271,400 households, with an average household size of 2.65 people. The median household income is approximately $50,584, and about 13.6% of the population lives below the poverty line.

As of 2023, Polk County, FL's median home price stands at approximately $300,000, reflecting a notable increase in recent years. The region has a homeownership rate of around 60%. Rental rates average $1,500 per month for a two-bedroom apartment. The housing market growth is driven by its strategic location between Tampa and Orlando, fostering both residential and investment interests. The county features a mix of new developments and established neighborhoods, offering diverse options for potential homeowners and renters alike.

As of the latest data available in 2023, Polk County, FL holds elections for various federal, state, and local offices. Numerical values such as voter turnout and results vary by election cycle.

For the 2023 local elections:

• Polk County Commission seats and city councils in various municipalities are up for grabs.
• School Board elections typically feature multiple candidates for available seats.
• Voter turnout in off-year elections can range between 15-30%.

Key candidates often include local incumbents as well as new challengers representing both major parties (Republican and Democrat) and occasionally independents.

For exact numbers, candidate names, and updated election information, it's advisable to check the Polk County Supervisor of Elections website or contact their office directly.

As of recent data, Polk County, FL, shows varying levels of educational attainment:

• High school diploma or higher: Approximately 85.1% of residents aged 25 and older have at least a high school diploma.
• Bachelor's degree or higher: Around 20.3% hold a bachelor's degree or higher.

Comparatively, the national average for a high school diploma or higher is about 88.4%, with 32.1% holding a bachelor's degree or higher.

Florida's statewide averages show that approximately 89.2% of the population has a high school diploma or higher, and around 29.2% possess a bachelor's degree or higher.

Polk County thus trails both the national and state averages in educational attainment, particularly at the bachelor's degree level.

As of the latest data, Polk County, FL, had an employment rate with notable figures in various sectors:

1. Healthcare and Social Assistance: Approximately 44,000 jobs, constituting about 17% of total employment, higher than the national average of 13.5%.
2. Retail Trade: Around 36,000 jobs, making up 14% of employment, compared to the national average of 10%.
3. Education Services: Close to 20,000 jobs, representing 7.7% of employment, similar to the national average of 8%.
4. Manufacturing: Roughly 15,000 jobs, accounting for about 6%, below the national average of 8.5%.

Polk County's overall unemployment rate stands at approximately 4%, which is in line with both state (4.5%) and national (4.1%) averages. The dominant industries reflect a regional focus on healthcare and retail, deviating slightly from broader national trends by having a stronger retail presence.

As of the latest available data, the average household income in Polk County, FL stands at approximately $50,000 per year. This figure is notably lower than both the national average and the state average for Florida. In comparison, the national average household income is around $68,700, while the average for the state of Florida is approximately $55,660.

These figures suggest that Polk County's residents earn less on average than both the typical Floridian and the average American household.

As of the latest data, Polk County, FL reported a crime rate of approximately 2,800 incidents per 100,000 residents. The county has taken significant measures to ensure public safety, which has seen fluctuations in crime rates over the years.

Here is a summary table of various types of crimes reported:

These figures reflect general trends in Polk County, though specific numbers might differ slightly based on annual crime reports.