Demographics

As of 2023, Anderson County, TX has a population of approximately 57,900. The median age is 40.7 years, with 19% under 18 and 18% aged 65 or older. Females make up 48% and males 52% of the population. Racially, the county is 62% White, 21% Black or African American, 1% Asian, 13% Hispanic or Latino, and 3% other races/multiracial.

Elections

Anderson County, TX, had 27,386 registered voters in 2022. The county holds primary, general, and special elections, overseen by the Elections Administrator. In the 2022 general election, Republican candidates received 74% of the vote, while Democrats got 25%. Key issues included property taxes and school funding. Major parties—the Republican and Democratic parties—operate locally. There are 23 polling locations across the county, with early voting available. Election results and polling site details are published on the county’s official website. Participation rates in recent elections hovered around 51%, reflecting moderate voter engagement.

Education, Employment and Housing

Anderson County, TX, serves about 8,000 students in 35 public schools, including several high schools such as Palestine High. Around 79% of adults have a high school diploma, while 13% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools report an average GreatSchools rating of 4/10. Districts prioritize safety with resource officers and security protocols. Educational programs feature career and technical education, dual-credit, and adult learning initiatives.

As of 2022, Anderson County, TX, has an employment rate of approximately 54% among residents aged 16 and older. The largest sectors are Health Care & Social Assistance (21.5%), Manufacturing (13%), and Retail Trade (10.5%). Major occupation types include Office & Administrative Support (14.1%) and Production (10.7%). Around 81% of workers commute by car, with an average one-way travel time of 22.5 minutes. Most employees work within the county, though about 24% commute to neighboring counties for employment.

Anderson County, TX, has a homeownership rate of approximately 70%, with median home values around $151,000 as of 2023. Median gross rent is about $850 per month. Property values have risen nearly 8% in the past year. Housing types range from historic single-family homes to modern ranch-style houses, primarily in neighborhoods like Palestine, Elkhart, and Frankston. The county’s property tax rate averages 1.6%, resulting in annual taxes of about $2,400 on a median-priced home, making Anderson County an affordable option in East Texas.

County Crime & Safety

Anderson County, TX, reports a crime rate of approximately 24.3 crimes per 1,000 residents annually, slightly above the national average. In 2023, there were about 1,400 reported crimes, including 110 violent crimes and 1,290 property crimes. The sheriff’s office and local police actively monitor and report incidents. Anderson County's safety ranking is considered moderate, with most crime concentrated in urban areas like Palestine. Proactive policing and community programs aim to lower the rate, but residents are advised to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to local authorities.