Deaf Smith County

As of the 2020 Census, Deaf Smith County, TX, has a population of approximately 18,583. The racial composition is around 72.6% Hispanic or Latino, 24.1% White (non-Hispanic), 1.2% Black or African American, 0.5% Native American, and 0.3% Asian. The county has about 6,143 households, with an average household size of approximately 3.01 individuals. The median age is 34.5 years, and the median household income is approximately $45,604.

Note: Demographic values are subject to change over time and should be verified with up-to-date sources for accuracy.

As of the latest data, Deaf Smith County, TX, has a median home value of approximately $94,000. The median rent is around $725 per month. Homeownership rate is about 66%, with a vacancy rate of 10%. The average household size is 3.2 people. The housing market has shown moderate growth, with a low unemployment rate contributing to stability. Mortgage rates typically hover around 3.6-4.2%, reflecting national trends. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging 1.8% of home value annually. Most homes are single-family units, though there are some rental apartments and mobile homes.

Deaf Smith County, TX, conducts elections for various local, state, and federal offices. As of the most recent elections, the county had approximately 11,000 registered voters.

Key positions contested include:

• County Judge
• Commissioners for Precincts 1-4
• County Clerk
• Sheriff
• Tax Assessor-Collector

In the last election cycle, notable candidates included:

1. County Judge: Jim Barron (R) vs. Jill Jones (D)
2. Sheriff: J. Dale Richardson (R) (unopposed)
3. County Clerk: Lisa Boltinghouse (R) (unopposed)

Voter turnout was around 60%, with significant participation in early voting. The county uses paper ballots and electronic voting systems to enhance accessibility and accuracy. For comprehensive candidate lists, polling locations, and specific election dates, the Deaf Smith County Elections Administration office provides updated information on its official website and through local announcements.

Deaf Smith County, TX, has relatively lower educational attainment compared to national and state averages. According to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2020 estimates, about 74.8% of residents aged 25 and older have at least a high school diploma, compared to 88.6% for the state of Texas and 88.0% for the U.S. Similarly, only 12.3% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, compared to 32.1% for Texas and 33.1% nationwide. The county's educational institutions include public schools under the Hereford Independent School District and higher education opportunities at Hereford High School and Deaf Smith County Adult Education Center. These figures suggest the county trails behind both state and national averages in educational attainment.

As of the latest data, Deaf Smith County, TX, has an employment rate closely aligned with its rural and agricultural backdrop. Prominent industries include agriculture, manufacturing, and education. Agriculture employs a significant portion, given the county's vast farmlands and cattle ranches.

Employment Figures:

• Total Workforce: Approximately 9,000
• Agriculture: 20%
• Manufacturing: 15%
• Education, Health, and Social Services: 25%

Top Industries:

1. Agriculture
2. Manufacturing
3. Education and Health Services

Comparison to Averages:

• National Averages: In the U.S., top industries such as technology and professional services dominate, with agriculture representing less than 2% of employment.
• Texas State Averages: Texas also has a diverse economy with significant tech and energy sectors, but agriculture is more represented in rural counties like Deaf Smith, though it's lower percentage-wise statewide.

These figures illustrate the county's strong reliance on agriculture and manufacturing compared to broader, more diversified state and national economies.

Deaf Smith County, Texas, has a median household income lower than both state and national averages. According to the U.S. Census Bureau data, the median household income in Deaf Smith County is approximately $47,500. In comparison, the median household income for Texas is around $63,826, and the national median is about $68,703.

The lower median income in Deaf Smith County reflects economic disparities and different industrial compositions compared to larger metropolitan areas in Texas and across the United States.

As of the latest data available, Deaf Smith County, TX has a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. The county typically reports lower incidences of violent crimes but higher rates of property crimes. Here is a brief overview:

Crime Rate per 1,000 Residents (Annual):

The crime rates include data on violent crimes such as assault, robbery, rape, and murder, and property crimes including burglary, larceny-theft, and motor vehicle theft. This summary provides a general perspective on crime within the county and may fluctuate based on annual reports. Please check local resources or law enforcement agencies for the most current statistics.