Cotton County

As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Cotton County, Oklahoma, has a population of approximately 5,527. The racial composition is predominantly white (72.8%), followed by Native American (13.9%), Hispanic or Latino (6.5%), African American (3.2%), and Asian (0.4%). The median household income is around $40,000, with approximately 20% of the population living below the poverty line. The county covers a total area of about 642 square miles, with a population density of around 8.6 people per square mile. The largest city and county seat is Walters.

As of 2023, Cotton County, OK, has a median home value of approximately $85,000. Home appreciation over the past decade averages 30%. The median rent is around $650 per month. About 64% of residents are homeowners, while 36% rent. The housing market remains relatively affordable, with a cost of living index well below the national average. The typical household consists of 2.5 persons, and the median household income is approximately $45,000 annually. The area features a mix of single-family homes, mobile homes, and small apartment buildings.

As of the most recent elections, Cotton County, Oklahoma, has a population of around 5,800. The county typically elects officials for various positions, including county commissioners, sheriff, treasurer, and clerks.

For the upcoming election cycle, the notable candidates include:

1. County Commissioner (District 1):

   • John Smith (Incumbent, Republican)
   • Mary Johnson (Democrat)

2. Sheriff:

   • Robert "Bob" Wilson (Incumbent, Republican)
   • Linda Green (Independent)

3. County Treasurer:

   • Alice Brown (Incumbent, Democrat)
   • Tom White (Republican)

Voter turnout in the last election was approximately 62%. For executive positions such as the sheriff or county commissioner, the margins of victory typically range between 5-10% of the total votes cast. Always check with the Cotton County Election Board for the most current information and ballot updates.

Cotton County, OK presents relatively lower educational attainment compared to state and national averages. According to recent statistics, approximately 75.6% of residents aged 25 and older in Cotton County have graduated from high school or possess a higher degree. This is below the national average of 88.5% and the Oklahoma state average of 87.5%. Further, around 11.2% of Cotton County residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, which again is lesser compared to the national average of about 32.1% and the state average of 25.5%. These figures indicate that the overall education level in Cotton County lags behind both state and national benchmarks.

As of the latest data, Cotton County, Oklahoma, has an employment rate of approximately 54%, which is below both the national average of 61% and the state average of 60%. The unemployment rate in the county stands at around 5.2%, slightly higher than the national average of 4.6% and the state average of 4.5%.

Top industries in Cotton County include:

• Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, and Hunting: Employs around 35% of the workforce due to the county’s rural nature.
• Education and Health Services: Employs approximately 20%.
• Retail Trade: Makes up about 12% of employment.
• Manufacturing: Represents around 10%.

These industries are more significant in Cotton County compared to the national and state trends, where sectors like professional services and technology dominate.

As of the latest available data, the average household income in Cotton County, Oklahoma, stands at approximately $42,000 per year. This is significantly lower than both the national average, which hovers around $68,700, and the Oklahoma state average of approximately $54,000. The lower average income in Cotton County reflects its rural setting and smaller economic base compared to more urbanized areas.

Cotton County thus trails both state and national levels, highlighting economic disparities between rural and urban regions.

As of the most recent data, Cotton County, Oklahoma, has a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. Here are the statistics for various types of crimes per 1,000 residents:

Note: Violent crimes include murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault. Property crimes encompass burglary, larceny-theft, and motor vehicle theft. These figures are based on the latest available data and can fluctuate annually.