Ector County Public RecordsTexas

Ector County, TX, had an estimated population of 168,908 in 2023. The median age is about 32 years. Gender distribution is roughly even, with 50.5% male and 49.5% female. Racial and ethnic composition includes 57% Hispanic or Latino, 29% White (non-Hispanic), 7% Black or African American, 2% Asian, and 5% other races or multiracial. The county has seen steady population growth in recent years.

Ector County, TX, had 86,412 registered voters in 2022. The county conducts elections for local, state, and federal offices, often showing strong Republican majorities (e.g., 74% for GOP in 2020 Presidential race). Polling locations typically number around 20, including libraries and schools. Key issues include energy policy and education funding. The Ector County Elections Office manages voter registration and elections. Political activity is dominated by Republicans, but Democrats also contend. Turnout in recent midterms was about 36%. Voters can check polling sites and sample ballots through the county’s official website.

Ector County, TX, is primarily served by Ector County Independent School District, operating 2 main high schools and over 40 campuses. Only 76.4% of adults hold a high school diploma, and 13.6% possess a bachelor’s degree or higher, below state averages. School ratings average 4–5 out of 10 on GreatSchools, with some campuses facing academic challenges. The district offers Advanced Placement, career and technical programs, and dual credit courses. Adult education is available through Odessa College and local GED programs. School safety initiatives include campus police and security upgrades in recent years.

Ector County, TX, had an employment rate of approximately 60.4% in 2022. Key industries include Mining, Quarrying, Oil & Gas Extraction (21.5%), Health Care & Social Assistance (10.2%), and Retail Trade (9.7%). Major occupations are in Construction/Extraction (15.8%), Office/Administrative Support (10.6%), and Sales (9.5%). The average commute time is 23.4 minutes, with about 96.2% of workers commuting by car. Most residents (over 90%) work within Ector or neighboring Midland County, reflecting the area's strong regional employment integration.

Ector County, TX, has a homeownership rate of about 63%, with median home values around $180,000 and median rents near $1,200. The housing market has seen 5% year-over-year appreciation. Predominantly single-family homes, popular neighborhoods include Odessa, Gardendale, and West Odessa. Newer developments and affordable housing are expanding. Property taxes average 2.2% of assessed value. Renters comprise 37% of households, with rental demand stable. The diversity of neighborhoods and modest costs make Ector County attractive to families and workers in the oil industry.

Ector County, TX, reported a crime rate of 4,808 incidents per 100,000 residents in 2022, higher than the state average. Violent crime, including assault and robbery, reached 625 incidents per 100,000 people, while property crimes such as burglary and theft totaled 4,183 per 100,000. The Ector County Sheriff’s Office and Odessa Police Department actively encourage public reporting, which has improved case clearance rates. Although crime remains above state averages, increased patrols and community initiatives have contributed to a slight decline in property crime rates over the past year.