Deaf Smith County Public RecordsTexas

Deaf Smith County, TX, had an estimated 2023 population of about 17,500. Approximately 50.4% are male and 49.6% female. The median age is near 32. Racially, about 67% identify as Hispanic or Latino, 29% as White (non-Hispanic), 2% Black or African American, and smaller proportions Asian or of other races. The county has a relatively young and predominantly Hispanic population, reflecting its agricultural roots and regional migration patterns.

Deaf Smith County, TX, had approximately 11,600 residents and around 5,100 registered voters in 2022. The county administers local, state, and federal elections, typically holding voting at sites such as Hereford Community Center. In the 2020 presidential election, 77% voted Republican and 22% Democrat. Election administration is managed by the County Clerk’s office. Party affiliation strongly favors Republicans. Key issues include agriculture and water use. The county follows Texas voter ID laws and frequently reports turnout rates near 45%.

Deaf Smith County, TX, is mainly served by the Hereford Independent School District, which includes Hereford High School and several elementary and middle schools—about 7 in total. Around 75% of adults hold a high school diploma, but only around 13% have a bachelor's degree or higher. Schools score about average on state academic assessments, with Hereford High rated 5/10 by GreatSchools. Advanced educational programs include dual credit and career-technical tracks. School safety measures include on-site officers and routine security drills. Adult education opportunities are available through local community colleges and continuing education programs.

Deaf Smith County, TX, has an employment rate of approximately 62.4%. Major industries include agriculture, manufacturing, and health care, employing 22%, 20%, and 15% of the workforce respectively. The most common occupation types are production (18%) and office/admin support (13%). About 81% of workers drive alone to work, with a mean commute time of 14.5 minutes. Most residents work within the county, but 11% commute to neighboring regions such as Amarillo.

Deaf Smith County, TX, offers a median home value of around $105,000 and a median rent of $850 as of early 2024. Approximately 65% of residents own their homes, while 35% rent. Housing types are predominantly single-family homes with some duplexes and apartments, mainly in the city of Hereford. Property values have seen modest growth of about 3% annually. Popular neighborhoods include central Hereford and the Tierra Del Sol area. The average property tax rate stands at approximately 1.7%, keeping homeownership relatively affordable compared to state and national averages.

Deaf Smith County, TX, maintains relatively low crime rates compared to national averages. According to FBI data, the violent crime rate in 2022 was approximately 215 incidents per 100,000 residents—significantly below the U.S. average of about 380. Property crime rates stood at around 1,350 per 100,000 residents. The county sheriff’s office actively encourages public crime reporting, contributing to effective law enforcement. Overall, residents generally experience a sense of safety, with most incidents considered minor or isolated.