Perry County

As of the 2020 Census, Perry County, MS, had a population of approximately 11,511. The racial composition includes 60.7% White, 36.4% Black or African American, and 1.9% Hispanic or Latino. The median household income is around $38,019. Approximately 20.6% of the population lives below the poverty line. The county covers an area of about 650 square miles, with a population density of around 18 people per square mile. Its county seat is New Augusta.

As of the latest data, Perry County, MS, has a median home value of approximately $80,000. The median rent is around $650 per month. Homeownership rate stands at about 78%. The housing market typically consists of single-family homes, with new listings averaging around $100,000 to $150,000. The county's population is roughly 11,000 people, contributing to a relatively stable housing demand. Overall, Perry County offers affordable living options compared to national averages.

As of the latest update in 2023, Perry County, MS features several key electoral races including those for county officials, state representatives, and local judgeships. The county's Board of Supervisors consists of five districts; each elects a supervisor. Key offices include Sheriff, Circuit Clerk, and Chancery Clerk.

For the 2023 election cycle:

1. Sheriff: Incumbent Mitch Nobles (Republican) faces challenger John Smith (Independent).
2. Circuit Clerk: Betsy Smith (Republican) running unopposed.
3. Board of Supervisors:
   • District 1: Kevin Shows (Republican)
   • District 2: Malcolm Perry (Independent)
   • District 3: Jason Hicks (Republican)
   • District 4: Hunter Harris (Republican)
   • District 5: Mary Hill (Democrat)

Voter turnout is crucial; in past elections, approximately 4,500 of the 7,000 registered voters participated, highlighting the active civic engagement in Perry County. Full candidate lists and detailed voter information are posted on Perry County's official website before election dates.

Perry County, Mississippi, has educational attainment levels below both state and national averages. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 79.2% of Perry County residents aged 25 and over have at least a high school diploma or equivalent, compared to the national average of 88.5% and the Mississippi state average of 85.3%. Furthermore, only 10.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, significantly lower than the 32.1% national average and 22.4% state average. These figures highlight a gap in higher education achievement in Perry County versus broader benchmarks.

As of the latest data, Perry County, MS, has an employment rate of approximately 52.6%, significantly lower than the national average of around 61.1% and the Mississippi state average of 55.6%. Key industries in Perry County include:

1. Manufacturing: makes up around 19.1% of employment.
2. Retail Trade: accounts for about 14.3%.
3. Healthcare and Social Assistance: represents approximately 13.2%.
4. Educational Services: takes up around 11.5%.

In comparison, nationally, the top industries by employment are typically healthcare and social assistance (13%), retail trade (12%), and professional and business services (13%). Mississippi mirrors the national trends but places a stronger emphasis on manufacturing and educational services.

Thus, Perry County's employment landscape reflects a higher reliance on manufacturing and retail compared to the national and state patterns, while somewhat under-representing professional and business services.

As of the latest available data, Perry County, MS, has an average household income of approximately $39,000. This is considerably lower than both the state and national averages. The median household income in Mississippi stands at around $45,000, while the United States as a whole reports a median household income of about $68,700.

Perry County's income levels highlight the economic challenges within the county compared to broader state and national figures.

As of the latest available data, Perry County, MS, has relatively low crime rates compared to the national average. The overall crime rate in Perry County in recent years has been approximately 13.42 per 1,000 residents per year. The following table breaks down types of crimes and their incidence rates per 1,000 residents:

These figures are based on reported incidents and may vary year to year. It’s always advisable to check the latest statistics from local law enforcement or official crime databases for the most current information.