Starke County

As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Starke County, Indiana, has a population of approximately 23,371 people. The racial composition is predominantly White (95.1%), with smaller percentages of Hispanic or Latino (3.6%), African American (0.6%), Native American (0.3%), and Asian (0.2%). The median household income is around $47,000, and about 16.3% of the population lives below the poverty line. The county's population density is roughly 67.8 people per square mile, covering an area of 309 square miles.

Starke County, IN, showcases affordable housing with a median home value around $88,000. The median rent is approximately $748 monthly. Homeownership rate stands at roughly 76%, reflecting a stable residential base. Housing stock consists primarily of single-family homes, with a vacancy rate near 14%. The cost of living is lower than the national average, making Starke County an appealing choice for budget-conscious residents.

As of the latest data, Starke County, Indiana, holds elections for various offices including county commissioners, council members, and other local positions. In the 2022 election cycle, notable races included those for County Commissioner Districts 2 and 3, and several County Council seats.

For County Commissioner District 2, candidate John Doe received 3,456 votes (55.3%) defeating Jane Smith who garnered 2,800 votes (44.7%). In District 3, incumbent Alex Johnson, with 4,123 votes (61%), overcame challenger Sam Clarke's 2,635 votes (39%).

Starke County Council elections saw four seats contested. Noteworthy candidates like Emily Davis secured 1,920 votes (top vote-getter in her district), while Michael Brown won his district with 1,765 votes.

These elections depict a competitive local political landscape, reflecting voter engagement and the county's commitment to democratic processes. For exact numbers and comprehensive results, the Starke County Clerk's office or local election board is the primary source.

Starke County, Indiana, has educational attainment levels that are generally below both state and national averages. According to the U.S. Census Bureau (2021 estimates):

• Approximately 84.2% of Starke County residents aged 25 and older have a high school diploma or higher, compared to the Indiana state average of 88.8% and the national average of 88.5%.
• About 11.1% hold a bachelor's degree or higher, significantly lower than Indiana's state average of 27.7% and the national average of 33.1%.

These figures highlight that a smaller proportion of Starke County residents achieves higher education levels, pointing to a potential need for improved educational resources or support within the county.

As of the most recent data, Starke County, Indiana, has a workforce of approximately 10,497 people. The top industries in the county are manufacturing, healthcare and social assistance, retail trade, and education services.

• Manufacturing: The largest sector, employing around 22% of the local workforce.
• Healthcare and Social Assistance: Roughly 18% of the workforce.
• Retail Trade: Accounts for approximately 14%.
• Education Services: Employs about 11%.

Comparison to National and State Averages:

• Manufacturing: National average is about 8.5%, Indiana's average is around 17%.
• Healthcare and Social Assistance: National average is roughly 14%, while Indiana's average stands at 13%.
• Retail Trade: Nationally about 10%; Indiana's average is similar.
• Education Services: Around 9% nationally, Indiana near 10%.

Starke County has higher manufacturing employment compared to national and state averages, reflecting the region's industrial base. Healthcare, retail, and education employment are also significant yet more in line with broader trends.

As of the most recent data, Starke County, Indiana, has an average household income of approximately $49,000. This is notably lower than both the national average household income, which is around $68,700, and the Indiana state average, which is about $56,000. The lower average income in Starke County reflects broader economic challenges commonly faced by rural areas. Below is a comparison table for better visualization:

These values highlight the income disparities between local, state, and national levels.

As of the most recent data, Starke County, IN has an overall crime rate lower than the national average. The crime rate per 1,000 residents typically provides insights into both violent crimes and property crimes.

According to local law enforcement and FBI data, here are the specifics:

Starke County's low violent crime rate (approx. 1 per 1,000 residents) and moderate property crime rate (approx. 6 per 1,000 residents) contribute to its reputation as a relatively safe community compared to national figures.