Demographics

As of 2023, Bowie County, TX had a population of approximately 92,900. The racial makeup is 60.7% White (non-Hispanic), 27.2% Black or African American, 8.8% Hispanic or Latino, and 2.3% other races. The median age is 38.7 years, with about 22% under 18 and 17% aged 65 or older. The gender split is roughly 51% female and 49% male, reflecting a balanced demographic profile for the area.

Elections

Bowie County, TX, with over 59,000 registered voters as of 2024, conducts primary, general, local, and special elections administered by the County Elections Administrator. Major parties—Republican and Democrat—dominate, with Republicans securing about 74% of the 2022 general election vote. Key polling locations include the Bi-State Justice Building and Precinct 7 Community Center. Election issues often focus on property taxes and education. Recent voter turnout was 54% in the 2020 general election. Detailed information and registration forms are available via the county’s official website.

Education, Employment and Housing

Bowie County, TX, hosts 22 public schools including 5 high schools, serving around 15,000 students. About 87% of adults have a high school diploma, but only 18% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average school rating is 6/10 according to GreatSchools. Schools offer programs such as Advanced Placement, dual credit, and vocational training. Bowie County maintains a low school crime rate, prioritizing safety initiatives. Additionally, Texas A&M University-Texarkana and Texarkana College provide local adult education and workforce development, contributing to ongoing educational opportunities.

As of 2023, Bowie County, TX has an employment rate of approximately 56.2%. Key industries include Health Care & Social Assistance (20.3%), Retail Trade (13.9%), and Manufacturing (11.8%). Major occupation types are Office & Administrative Support (14.4%), Sales (11.1%), and Production (10.2%). Most workers (81.9%) commute by car, with an average commute time of 19.7 minutes. Top employment locations are Texarkana, Nash, and Wake Village, with over 65% of residents working within the county itself.

Bowie County, TX, has a homeownership rate of about 64%, with median home values near $148,000 and typical monthly rents around $950. Housing types range from single-family homes to some apartments, with popular neighborhoods like Wake Village and Nash. The area experienced a modest property value increase of roughly 5% over the past year. Property tax rates average 1.74%, meaning annual taxes of about $2,575 on a median-priced home. The local market offers affordable options compared to the Texas average, attracting both families and retirees.

County Crime & Safety

Bowie County, TX, reported a crime rate of 38.9 per 1,000 residents in 2023, higher than the Texas average. Violent crimes, including assault and robbery, accounted for about 13% of total incidents, while property crimes—mainly theft and burglary—were more frequent. The sheriff’s department emphasizes timely reporting, with response times averaging 8 minutes. Efforts to increase patrols and community policing have contributed to a slight 3% decrease in overall crime over the past year, according to the latest Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) data.