Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Harrison County, Texas, had a population of approximately 68,835. The median age was about 39.6 years. Gender distribution was nearly balanced, with 50.7% female and 49.3% male. Racial and ethnic composition included 63.7% White, 22.4% Black or African American, 10.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.6% Asian, and 2.9% from two or more races.

Elections

Harrison County, TX, with over 44,000 registered voters (2024), conducts primary, general, and special elections, overseen by the County Elections Administrator. In the 2020 presidential election, 71% favored the Republican candidate, reflecting strong GOP dominance, while Democrats captured around 28%. Major polling locations include Marshall Civic Center and local schools. Key ballot issues often involve education and property taxes. The county maintains 20+ polling locations, with early voting available. Both major parties actively participate, but Republicans maintain a substantial edge in local administration and election outcomes.

Education, Employment and Housing

Harrison County, TX, hosts 24 public schools, including 5 high schools. Around 83% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 17% possess at least a bachelor’s degree. Average standardized test scores in the county’s largest district, Marshall ISD, range from 65–75%. The county offers adult education and career training programs, though participation is limited. School safety initiatives include campus resource officers and security upgrades. Extracurricular and vocational programs supplement standard curricula, supporting diverse student interests.

As of 2023, Harrison County, TX, has an employment rate of approximately 57.2%. The top industries are Manufacturing (17.5%), Healthcare & Social Assistance (14%), and Retail Trade (12.4%). Major occupation types include Production (13%), Office & Administrative Support (12.1%), and Sales (10.8%). About 85% of county residents commute by car, with an average commute time of 25 minutes. Roughly 48% of workers are employed within the county, while the rest commute primarily to Longview, Marshall, and Shreveport.

Harrison County, TX, has a homeownership rate of about 70%, with a median home value around $185,000 as of 2024. Median monthly rent is approximately $950. Housing types are primarily single-family homes, with some apartments and mobile homes. Popular neighborhoods include Marshall’s Bel Air and Hallsville’s rural developments. Property values have risen by about 8% in the past year, reflecting steady growth. Property tax rates average 1.6%, meaning an annual tax bill around $2,960 on a median-priced home. Overall, Harrison County offers affordable housing and opportunities for both owners and renters.

County Crime & Safety

Harrison County, TX, has a moderate crime rate compared to state averages. In 2022, the violent crime rate was approximately 3.5 per 1,000 residents, while property crime stood at 17.2 per 1,000. The Sheriff's Office actively promotes neighborhood watch programs and encourages residents to report suspicious activities. Overall, crime has seen a slight decrease of 2% year-over-year. Most incidents relate to theft and burglary, with law enforcement responding promptly to reports, as indicated by a community satisfaction rate of 87% in recent surveys.