Walthall County

As of the 2020 Census, Walthall County, MS, had a population of 13,884. The racial composition was approximately 51.5% White and 46.5% Black or African American, with other races making up the remainder. Hispanic or Latino individuals of any race constituted about 2.1% of the population. The median household income was $33,114, and approximately 26.9% of the population lived below the poverty line. The county covers an area of 404 square miles. The population density is around 36 people per square mile.

As of the latest data, Walthall County, Mississippi has a median home value of around $100,000. The area has a mix of housing types, with approximately 68% of homes being owner-occupied. The vacancy rate stands at about 15%. Median monthly rent is roughly $650. The county exhibits modest growth, with new constructions contributing minimally to housing stock annually. Housing affordability remains a positive aspect, making it an accessible area for many residents.

Walthall County, Mississippi conducts elections for various local offices including supervisor districts, sheriff, chancery clerk, circuit clerk, tax assessor, and coroner. In recent elections, numbers vary per race due to population and voter engagement.

For example, in the 2023 primaries, the supervisor district races typically saw candidate fields of 2-5 people. Sheriff candidates included the incumbent and 1-3 challengers. Voter turnout in midterm elections generally hovers between 30-40% of registered voters, while presidential election years can see participation rates upwards of 55-60%.

Specific candidate names depend on the election cycle. For 2023, notable candidates included incumbent Sheriff Kyle Breland and challengers for other various county offices. For the most accurate and current information on election results, candidates, and voter participation, it's recommended to consult the official Walthall County website or the Mississippi Secretary of State’s office.

Walthall County, Mississippi, has educational attainment levels that trail behind national and state averages. Only about 70.9% of residents over 25 have achieved a high school diploma or higher, compared to the national average of around 88%. Additionally, approximately 8.8% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, whereas the national average is about 32.1%. Compared to Mississippi statewide figures, which show around 84% of residents having completed high school and 22.5% holding a bachelor's degree or higher, Walthall County lags behind. These disparities indicate significant educational challenges and opportunities for improvement within the county.

As of the latest available data, Walthall County, MS has an employment rate of approximately 49.6%, which is somewhat lower than both the national average of around 60% and the state average of about 55%.

Top industries in Walthall County include:

1. Agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting: This sector is significantly larger in the county than the national average due to its rural characteristics.
2. Manufacturing: Accounts for a substantial portion of local employment, in line with state averages but slightly below national trends.
3. Educational services, and health care and social assistance: This sector is a major employer, similar to national and state averages.
4. Retail trade: Comparable to state and national percentages, but slightly less dominant.

The county also sees a moderate level of employment in construction and professional services, though these are generally smaller than state and national levels.

As of the latest available data, the average household income in Walthall County, Mississippi is approximately $38,000 per year. This is significantly lower than the national average household income, which is about $68,700, and lower than the Mississippi state average of approximately $45,800.

These figures point to a notable income disparity, both within the state of Mississippi and compared to national averages. Walthall County's income levels reflect some of the economic challenges faced by more rural areas in the region.

Walthall County, MS, experiences relatively low crime rates compared to national averages. In recent years, the overall crime rate in Walthall County has seen fluctuations, but it generally remains below the national average. According to the latest available data, for every 1,000 residents, there are:

• Violent Crimes: 2.5 incidents
• Property Crimes: 15.3 incidents

Below is a table summarizing the crime statistics:

These figures highlight that property crimes are more prevalent than violent crimes in Walthall County. Note that this data is subject to change as new crime reports are filed.