Harris County Public RecordsTexas

As of 2023, Harris County, TX has an estimated population of about 4.8 million. The population is 50.1% female and 49.9% male, with a median age of 34.9 years. Racial and ethnic composition includes approximately 43% Hispanic or Latino, 28% White (non-Hispanic), 19% Black or African American, and 8% Asian. Children under 18 comprise 26% of the population, while 11% are aged 65 or older.

Harris County, TX, with over 2.5 million registered voters as of 2024, conducts various elections including presidential, congressional, and local races. In the 2020 presidential election, turnout exceeded 1.6 million votes. The county operates more than 700 polling locations, facing challenges like long wait times and legal disputes over mail-in ballots. Administered by the Harris County Elections Administrator, both Democratic and Republican parties are highly active. Recent elections have focused on issues like voting access and election security, with Democrats often winning urban precincts and Republicans more competitive in suburban and rural areas.

Harris County, TX has over 400 high schools and more than 1,100 total public schools. About 86% of residents have a high school diploma, while 32% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average school safety score is 7/10. The county offers various advanced placement, STEM, and career-technical programs. Houston ISD is the largest district, serving over 194,000 students. Adult education is supported by local colleges and literacy centers.

As of 2023, Harris County, TX, had an employment rate of approximately 66%. The leading industries include healthcare (13%), retail trade (11%), and professional, scientific, and technical services (9%). Common occupations are office and administrative support (15%) and sales-related roles (10%). Over 79% of workers commute by car, with an average one-way commute time of 28.6 minutes. Major employment locations are Houston, Pasadena, and Baytown, with many residents working within the county’s urban core.

Harris County, TX, has a homeownership rate of about 56%, with median home values around $270,000 as of 2023. The median gross rent is approximately $1,270 per month. Home values increased roughly 4% year-over-year. Housing types range from single-family homes in suburbs like Cypress and Sugar Land to apartments in urban areas like Midtown and The Heights. Neighborhoods such as West University Place and Bellaire are known for higher property values. Property tax rates average 2.3%, making taxes significant for homeowners compared to many other states.

Harris County, TX, reported a violent crime rate of 1,121 per 100,000 residents in 2023, with property crime at 3,820 per 100,000. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, there were over 17,000 violent crimes and more than 58,000 property crimes. The Sheriff's Office emphasizes community reporting via platforms like Crime Stoppers, contributing to increased clearance rates. Overall, crime rates have seen a slight decrease compared to 2022, though urban areas remain more affected. Residents are encouraged to use neighborhood watch programs for improved safety.