Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Crane County, TX had a population of approximately 4,675. The median age was around 32 years. About 51% were male and 49% female. The racial and ethnic breakdown was roughly 65% White (31% non-Hispanic), 2% Black or African American, 1% Native American, and 30% other races or multiple races. Notably, 63% of residents identified as Hispanic or Latino, reflecting significant Hispanic representation in the county.

Elections

Crane County, Texas, had 2,520 registered voters in 2022. Residents participate in federal, state, and local elections, typically voting at the Crane Community Center. In the 2020 presidential election, 83% voted Republican and 16% Democratic. Elections are managed by the Crane County Clerk’s office, with key issues including oil and gas regulation and local education. The county is predominantly Republican, with the GOP holding most public offices. Regular general, primary, and runoff elections are held, following Texas state election laws.

Education, Employment and Housing

Crane County, TX, is served mainly by Crane Independent School District, with one public high school—Crane High School. About 78% of adults hold a high school diploma, while roughly 10% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. The school district comprises three campuses and earned a Texas Education Agency accountability rating of “B” (83/100) in 2023. Programs include athletics, career-technical education, and dual-credit courses. Crane schools prioritize safety with security measures and emergency drills; the student–teacher ratio is approximately 12:1, supporting personalized attention and fostering strong adult education partnerships in the community.

As of 2023, Crane County, TX, has an employment rate of approximately 59%. The leading industry is Mining, Quarrying, and Oil & Gas Extraction, employing over 35% of workers, followed by Educational Services, and Health Care at 13%. Most employees hold extraction, construction, or production occupations. Around 88% of the workforce commutes by car, with an average commute time of 24 minutes. The majority work within the county, although around 30% commute to neighboring counties, primarily Ector and Midland, for employment opportunities.

Crane County, TX, has a homeownership rate of approximately 70%, with median home values around $103,000 as of 2023. Rental occupancy is about 30%, and average monthly rents are $700. The housing market has remained stable, with slight annual value increases of 2-3%. Most homes are single-family houses, especially in Crane city, the main neighborhood. Property taxes average 1.43%, translating to roughly $1,475 yearly on a median-valued home. The county offers affordable living compared to state averages, with modest neighborhoods and limited multifamily housing options.

County Crime & Safety

Crane County, TX, known for its small population of around 5,000, reports relatively low crime rates compared to state averages. In 2023, the county saw only 2 violent crimes and 18 property crimes, reflecting a crime rate of 4.0 per 1,000 residents—well below the Texas average of 25.9 per 1,000. The Sheriff’s Office oversees crime reporting and public safety, contributing to a secure environment. Most residents consider Crane County a safe place to live, with occasional minor offenses and minimal serious incidents.