Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Freestone County, TX, had a population of 19,435. The median age was 41.2 years, with 51% male and 49% female residents. Racially, the county was 67% White, 18% Black or African American, 12% Hispanic or Latino, 1% Native American, and 2% other or multiracial. About 23% of residents were under 18, and 19% were aged 65 or older, reflecting a largely adult population.

Elections

Freestone County, TX, has approximately 11,000 registered voters as of 2024. The county administers general, primary, and special elections, with recent general elections showing about 65% voter turnout. Major polling locations include the Courthouse, Fairfield Conference Center, and Teague Community Center. Election administration is overseen by the County Clerk. Local issues include property taxes and rural infrastructure. Results typically favor the Republican Party, which secured nearly 80% of the county’s 2020 presidential vote. Both Democratic and Republican parties operate local offices, ensuring ballot access and voter outreach across the county’s nine precincts.

Education, Employment and Housing

Freestone County, TX, hosts around 11 public schools, including notable high schools like Fairfield High. The county’s high school graduation rate stands near 92%. Approximately 14% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, below the Texas average. Schools in the county score an average of 5/10 on GreatSchools rankings. Adult education options are limited, but some vocational and GED programs exist. School safety is generally strong, with few major incidents reported. Educational programs focus on STEM, athletics, and agriculture, reflecting local community interests.

As of 2022, Freestone County, TX, had an employment rate of approximately 55%. Major industries include healthcare and social assistance (15%), retail trade (13%), and construction (11%). Leading occupations are management (9%), sales (8%), and office/administrative support (11%). About 82% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 26 minutes; 47% work outside the county, primarily traveling to Navarro and Limestone counties. Major employment locations include Fairfield and Teague.

Freestone County, TX, has a homeownership rate of about 75%, with median home values around $165,000 as of 2023. Median gross rent is approximately $850. The housing market is stable, with values rising about 4% annually. Housing types include single-family homes, some manufactured homes, and rural properties. Popular neighborhoods include Fairfield, Teague, and Wortham. Property tax rates average 1.7%, meaning annual taxes on a $165,000 home are roughly $2,805. The area offers affordable living compared to state averages and features a mix of suburban and rural lifestyles.

County Crime & Safety

Freestone County, TX has a crime rate lower than the national average. According to recent FBI data, the overall crime rate is about 23.4 per 1,000 residents annually. Violent crime is relatively rare, with only 1.7 incidents per 1,000 people, while property crime stands at 21.7 per 1,000. Most crimes reported involve theft and burglary. The Freestone County Sheriff’s Office actively reports and responds to incidents, maintaining public safety through community programs and routine patrols. Overall, residents report a moderate to high level of safety in the area.