Demographics

As of 2022, Erath County, TX, has a population of approximately 44,500. About 49% are male and 51% female. The median age is around 32 years. Racially, 78% are White (non-Hispanic), 17% Hispanic or Latino, 2% Black, 1% Asian, and the remainder are other races or multiracial. The population under 18 is about 21%, while seniors (65+) comprise roughly 15%.

Elections

Erath County, TX, with about 27,000 residents, had roughly 19,200 registered voters in 2022. The county conducts primary, general, municipal, and school board elections. In the 2020 presidential race, 80% voted Republican, 18% Democrat. There are six polling locations, including the Erath County Courthouse. Key issues include property taxes and school funding. The Erath County Elections Office oversees administration, ensuring compliance with state laws. The Republican Party dominates local politics, but Democrats field candidates in most races. Turnout typically ranges from 50% in midterms to 70% in presidential years.

Education, Employment and Housing

Erath County, TX, hosts over 20 public schools, including Stephenville High and Dublin High, serving around 6,500 students. The high school graduation rate is approximately 94%, while 25% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher. School safety ratings are above state averages, with incident reports per 1,000 students below 2. Educational programs include advanced placement, dual-credit classes, and strong vocational tracks. Tarleton State University also provides higher education opportunities locally, supporting adult education and continuing education initiatives. Test scores in core subjects typically align with or slightly exceed Texas state averages.

As of 2023, Erath County, TX has an employment rate of approximately 59%. Major industries include educational services, health care, and retail trade, employing 22%, 15%, and 12% of the workforce, respectively. About 28% of workers have management, business, science, and arts occupations. The average commute time is 23 minutes, with 83% of residents driving alone. While 68% of workers are employed within the county, 32% commute to nearby areas such as Hood and Parker counties for work.

Erath County, TX, has a homeownership rate of around 65%, with median home values at about $240,000 in 2024. Median rent is approximately $1,100/month. The market has seen property values rise nearly 8% year-over-year. Housing types range from single-family homes to apartments, with neighborhoods like Stephenville offering both historic and newer developments. Property tax rates average 1.74%. Notable areas include Dublin and Morgan Mill, featuring rural and suburban options.

County Crime & Safety

Erath County, TX, reports a relatively low crime rate compared to national and state averages. In 2022, the overall crime rate was approximately 15.6 per 1,000 residents, with property crimes (burglary, theft) at 13.2 and violent crimes at 2.4 per 1,000. The sheriff’s office actively encourages community reporting and transparency through regular crime updates. While incidents remain below Texas averages (violent crime state average: 4.6/1,000), residents are advised to follow safety protocols to sustain lower rates.