Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Aransas County, TX, had a population of 23,830. The median age was 48.9 years, with 22.1% under 18 and 26.5% aged 65 or older. Females comprised 51.2% of residents, and males 48.8%. The racial/ethnic breakdown was 78.7% White, 2.3% Black or African American, 1.2% Asian, 0.7% Native American, and 15.9% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino individuals made up 34.1% of the population.

Elections

Aransas County, TX had approximately 18,800 registered voters for the November 2022 general election. Elections held include local, state, federal, and primary (party) contests. In the 2020 presidential race, about 67% voted Republican and 32% Democrat. Key polling locations include the Rockport Service Center and Fulton Community Center. The County Elections Administrator oversees processes; early voting and vote-by-mail are available. Key issues include hurricane recovery and coastal management. The region leans Republican, with about 60-70% voting GOP in recent elections. Local and state parties coordinate voter outreach and poll worker recruitment.

Education, Employment and Housing

Aransas County, TX, is served primarily by Aransas County Independent School District, with 1 high school (Rockport-Fulton High), 1 middle, and 2 elementary schools. The high school graduation rate is around 90%, while about 19% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The district’s schools score average to slightly below average on state assessments (Rockport-Fulton High’s TEA score: 78/100 in 2023). School safety initiatives include on-campus officers and safety drills. Programs include AP, CTE, and special education. Adult education is available through regional partnerships and community college distance learning.

As of 2023, Aransas County, TX, has an employment rate of approximately 56.8%. The largest industries are accommodation and food services (19.6%), health care and social assistance (14.1%), and retail trade (13%). Major occupations include sales (22%), office/administrative support (17%), and food preparation (15%). Most residents (81%) commute by car, with an average commute time of 19.7 minutes; about 51% work within the county, while others commute to neighboring areas like Corpus Christi.

Aransas County, TX, features a homeownership rate of about 73%, with median home values near $240,000 as of early 2024. Rental rates average $1,200 per month. The property market has experienced a 6% year-over-year increase in values, reflecting ongoing demand. Housing stock includes single-family homes, waterfront properties, and condos, particularly in Rockport, Fulton, and Holiday Beach neighborhoods. Property taxes average 1.7% of assessed value. The area attracts both retirees and vacation homeowners, contributing to a mix of permanent residents and seasonal visitors.

County Crime & Safety

Aransas County, TX, has a crime rate higher than the national average, with a total crime rate of approximately 4,300 per 100,000 residents in 2023. Violent crime, including assault and robbery, is reported at about 390 per 100,000 people, while property crime stands at 3,910 per 100,000. Local law enforcement agencies actively encourage community reporting and have increased patrols in higher-risk areas. Despite efforts, 2023 statistics showed a modest 2% decrease in overall reported crimes compared to 2022, indicating gradual improvements in public safety initiatives.