Menard County

Menard County, TX has a population of approximately 2,138 people. The racial makeup is roughly 83% White, 1% African American, 1.5% Native American, and 2% other races, with 12.5% identifying as Hispanic or Latino, in line with the 2020 census. The median age is about 47 years. The county covers around 902 square miles, with a population density of about 2.4 people per square mile. The median household income is approximately $40,000, and about 20% of the population lives below the poverty line.

As of 2021, Menard County, TX, has a median home value of approximately $86,500. The county features around 1,500 housing units. The homeownership rate is about 70%, and the average household size is 2.4 individuals. Median gross rent is roughly $531 per month. The county's housing market remains affordable compared to national averages, with relatively low property taxes and costs of living.

Menard County, TX, participates in state, federal, and local elections. Voting typically includes races for presidential, senatorial, and congressional positions, as well as local offices such as county judge, commissioners, sheriff, and other local officials. In the most recent presidential election, the county saw voter turnout rates hovering around 60%. For local elections, turnout is usually lower, often between 30-50%.

Candidates vary by election cycle. In 2022, for instance, some key races included:

• County Judge: Richard Cordes (R) vs. write-in candidates.
• County Commissioner Precinct 1: John Wilkins (R) ran uncontested.
• Sheriff: Several write-in candidates.

Election dates typically follow the standard U.S. election schedule, with primary elections in March, run-offs in May, and general elections in November. For the most current and detailed information about upcoming elections, candidates, and voting locations, residents should consult the Menard County Elections Office or their official website.

Menard County, TX has a relatively low level of educational attainment compared to state and national averages. According to the most recent U.S. Census data, approximately 76% of Menard County residents have a high school diploma or higher, compared to 90% for Texas and 88% nationwide. Only about 12% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, significantly below the 32% national average and 29% statewide. The county faces challenges in higher education access and attainment, impacting its workforce and economic prospects.

Sources: U.S. Census Bureau, Texas Education Agency.

As of the U.S. Census Bureau's 2019 data, Menard County, TX, had a labor force of approximately 1,131 individuals, with an unemployment rate of roughly 5.2%. Top employment sectors include agriculture, forestry, fishing, hunting (26.0%), educational services, health care, social assistance (16.9%), and construction (13.0%).

Comparatively, the national unemployment rate averaged around 3.7% in 2019, with Texas at 3.5%. Nationally, the top sectors typically include healthcare, retail, and professional services, differing from Menard County's more agriculture-focused economy.

This highlights Menard County's reliance on primary sector industries versus the more diversified national economy. Texas shows a broader industrial base, including energy, technology, and trade, reflecting significant urbanization and industrial diversification compared to rural Menard County.

As of the most recent data, the average household income in Menard County, TX, stands at around $39,000 per year. This is significantly lower than both the national and Texas state averages. Nationally, the average household income is approximately $68,700 per year, while the Texas state average is about $61,900 annually. Menard County's lower income levels reflect its rural characteristics and smaller economic base compared to state and national figures.

Statistics Table

As of the most recent data, Menard County, TX has relatively low crime rates compared to larger urban areas. The overall crime rate stands at approximately 10.5 per 1,000 residents annually. Below is a breakdown of specific crime types and their reported incidents per year (rounded figures):

Compared to the state and national averages, Menard County's crime rates are significantly lower, making it a relatively safe place to live.

Source: Recent local law enforcement data and crime reporting agencies.