Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Grimes County, TX had a population of approximately 29,268. The median age is about 39 years. The gender split is nearly even, with 51% male and 49% female. Racially, the county is 62.4% White (non-Hispanic), 18.2% Black or African American, 15.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.5% Asian, and 3.1% other races or two or more races. The population has grown steadily over the past decade, reflecting moderate demographic shifts.

Elections

Grimes County, TX, had 17,904 registered voters in 2022. The county conducts general, primary, runoff, and special elections, with 14 polling locations across towns like Navasota and Anderson. In the 2020 presidential election, 74.5% voted Republican and 24.5% Democrat. Local issues often center on property taxes, infrastructure, and rural development. The Grimes County Elections Administration oversees the process, while the Republican and Democratic parties are the main organizers. Voter turnout in recent elections ranged from 50% to 67%. Election information and results are available at the official county website.

Education, Employment and Housing

Grimes County, TX has 15 public schools, including 2 high schools, serving around 4,500 students. About 80% graduate high school, but only 13% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools in the county typically score below the state average on standardized tests (average score: 68/100). The county offers vocational and dual-credit programs, with some adult education and GED options. School safety measures are in place, with a 1:17 student-teacher ratio.

As of 2023, Grimes County, Texas, has an employment rate of 55.4% among its working-age population. Key industries include Health Care & Social Assistance (14.2%), Educational Services (11.8%), and Construction (9.6%). The most common occupations are Office & Administrative Support (13.5%) and Management (11.1%). Over 56% of workers commute outside the county for employment, with an average commute time of 33.5 minutes, primarily to Bryan-College Station and Houston metro areas.

Grimes County, TX, has a homeownership rate of around 73%, with median home values near $231,000 and median gross rents at about $990 (2024). The property market has seen moderate growth, with home values rising roughly 7% annually. Housing types include single-family homes, farms, and mobile homes, spread across rural areas and neighborhoods like Navasota and Anderson. Property tax rates average 1.78% of a home's value. The mix of affordable rentals and owner-occupied homes, plus spacious lots, make Grimes County attractive for families and retirees alike.

County Crime & Safety

Grimes County, TX, reports a moderate crime rate compared to Texas averages. According to the FBI’s 2022 data, the county saw approximately 278 total crimes (2,121 per 100,000 residents), including 36 violent crimes and 242 property crimes. The violent crime rate (274 per 100,000) is below the Texas state average. Grimes County Sheriff’s Office regularly updates incidents, with public reporting channels enhancing safety. Overall, while property crime remains the main concern, the area maintains a generally lower-than-average violent crime risk.