Demographics

As of 2022, Frio County, TX has a population of approximately 18,800. The median age is 34.6 years, with 51% male and 49% female residents. Racially, around 74% identify as Hispanic or Latino, 23% as White (non-Hispanic), 2% as Black or African American, and less than 1% as other races. The county’s youthful profile and strong Hispanic majority shape its vibrant culture and demographics.

Elections

Frio County, TX, had about 9,000 residents and approximately 5,000 registered voters as of 2022. The county’s Elections Office administers local, state, and federal elections, with polling locations in Pearsall, Dilley, and Bigfoot. In the 2020 presidential election, 57% voted Democratic and 42% Republican. Key issues include water management and infrastructure. The Frio County Democratic and Republican parties are active. Voter turnout was around 65% in 2020. Early voting and mail-in ballots are available. For registration, voters must be U.S. citizens and residents of the county, with applications accepted year-round.

Education, Employment and Housing

Frio County, TX, has 8 public schools, including 2 high schools, serving around 3,000 students. About 67% of adults have a high school diploma or higher, while 10% hold a bachelor’s degree or above. Average school ratings are below state average, with accountability scores around 65/100. Schools offer programs like dual-credit and vocational training, and adult education is available at local centers. School safety initiatives include resource officers and anti-bullying programs, but challenges remain due to limited funding.

As of 2022, Frio County, TX, has an employment rate of approximately 54.7%. Major industries include Healthcare & Social Assistance (13.6%), Retail Trade (13.3%), and Public Administration (10.7%). The most common occupations are Office & Administrative Support (13.6%) and Management (12.2%). The average commute time is around 29.5 minutes; about 85% of workers drive alone to work. Many residents commute to nearby cities such as San Antonio and Pearsall for employment opportunities.

Frio County, TX, has a homeownership rate of about 66%, with median home values around $105,000 and average gross rents roughly $785 monthly. The housing market trends stable, with modest appreciation over recent years. Most homes are detached single-family units, commonly found in Pearsall and Dilley, the largest towns. Neighborhoods vary from rural areas to small subdivisions. Annual property taxes average 1.63% of property value, meaning about $1,712 on a median-priced home. Rental options are more limited than owner-occupied homes, reflecting the county’s rural character and smaller urban centers.

County Crime & Safety

Frio County, Texas, experiences a moderate crime rate compared to statewide averages. In 2022, the county reported approximately 320 crimes, with a violent crime rate of 3.9 incidents per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 14.7 per 1,000. The county’s law enforcement actively promotes community reporting and safety initiatives. While major crimes are below the Texas average, property crimes still represent a significant concern. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activities, aided by local police and sheriff’s departments. Overall, Frio County generally maintains a slightly safer environment than Texas’s urban regions.