Demographics

As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Franklin County, TX had a population of 10,359. The median age is approximately 46 years. Gender distribution is nearly equal, with 50.2% male and 49.8% female. Racially, the county is predominantly White (81.2%), with 8.7% Black or African American, 1.2% Asian, and 2.7% from two or more races; 15.2% are Hispanic or Latino of any race.

Elections

Franklin County, TX, had approximately 7,550 registered voters in 2023. The county holds partisan primaries, general, local, and school board elections. In the 2022 general election, around 4,100 ballots were cast (54% turnout), with Republicans winning 82% of the countywide vote. Polling locations include Mount Vernon ISD Gym and County Annex. Voting issues cited include limited early voting sites and drive distances. Elections are administered by the Franklin County Elections Office. The Republican and Democratic parties both maintain local organizations, though Republicans dominate recent results.

Education, Employment and Housing

Franklin County, TX has around 6 public schools, with Franklin County Independent School District serving most students. The high school graduation rate is approximately 92%, but only about 13% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average school ratings are 6/10 according to GreatSchools. The schools offer programs in STEM and vocational training, and prioritize safety, reporting below-average incident rates. Adult education opportunities are available via community partnerships and online courses.

Franklin County, TX, had an unemployment rate of 4.0% in 2023. The leading employment sectors are education and health services (22%), retail trade (15%), and manufacturing (13%). Major occupation types include management, business, science, and arts occupations (27%), followed by sales and office occupations (23%). About 83% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 28 minutes. The majority (78%) of the workforce is employed within Franklin County, while others commute to neighboring counties like Titus and Hopkins.

Franklin County, TX, features a homeownership rate of about 75%, with median home values near $218,000 in 2024. Median gross rent is around $950 per month. The county has seen property values rise approximately 8% year-over-year. Housing types mainly include single-family homes and some mobile homes, with popular neighborhoods like Mount Vernon, Winnsboro, and Lake Cypress Springs. Property tax rates average 1.4% of assessed value. The area appeals to families and retirees attracted by its rural charm, affordable living, and proximity to outdoor recreation.

County Crime & Safety

Franklin County, TX, generally maintains lower crime rates compared to Texas averages. In 2022, the county reported a violent crime rate of 121 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 1,057 per 100,000. With fewer than 20 violent crimes and around 140 property crimes annually, safety remains a community priority. Crime data is collected and reported by the Franklin County Sheriff's Office and submitted to the Texas Department of Public Safety, ensuring transparency and ongoing monitoring. Overall, Franklin County is considered a safe, rural area with consistently low crime statistics.