Hays County Public RecordsTexas

As of 2023, Hays County, TX has a population of approximately 263,000. The median age is 33, with 51% female and 49% male residents. Racially, the population is 56% White (non-Hispanic), 37% Hispanic or Latino, 4% Black or African American, 2% Asian, and 1% other races. The county’s youthful demographic is influenced by the presence of Texas State University in San Marcos.

Hays County, TX, had 164,155 registered voters in 2022. Voters participate in local, state, and federal elections, including primaries and general elections. In the 2020 presidential election, 48.9% voted Democratic and 49.2% Republican. There are over 40 polling locations countywide. Major issues include rapid population growth and infrastructure. The Hays County Elections Office oversees administration. Both Democratic and Republican parties are active, with voter turnout reaching 67% in 2020.

Hays County, TX, has over 70 public schools, including 13 high schools, and several private institutions. The high school graduation rate is about 92%, while 38% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average school ratings are around 6-8/10 (GreatSchools). School districts like Hays CISD and San Marcos CISD emphasize safety, with active school resource officers and strong anti-bullying programs. Adult education is available through Hays CISD's Adult Ed Center. Educational programs include STEM, AP, and dual-credit courses, providing diverse academic opportunities.

As of 2024, Hays County, TX, has an employment rate of 63.5%. Leading industries include Educational Services, Health Care & Social Assistance (21.2%), Retail Trade (13.6%), and Accommodation & Food Services (11.8%). The most common occupations are Office & Administrative Support (14%), Sales (11%), and Education, Training, & Library roles (10%). Approximately 81% of residents commute by car, with a mean commute time of 28 minutes; more than 56% work outside Hays County, primarily in Austin and San Marcos.

Hays County, TX, features a homeownership rate of around 65%, with median home values at approximately $380,000—a 45% increase since 2020. Median gross rent is about $1,400 monthly. The area offers diverse housing, from modern subdivisions in Kyle and Buda to student-friendly apartments in San Marcos. Popular neighborhoods include Plum Creek, Blanco Vista, and Downtown San Marcos. Property taxes are high, averaging 2.0-2.5% of assessed value. The housing market remains competitive, driven by population growth and proximity to Austin.

Hays County, TX, experienced a crime rate of 1,522 incidents per 100,000 residents in 2023, below Texas’s state average of 2,691. Violent crimes accounted for approximately 220 per 100,000, while property crimes were about 1,300 per 100,000. The Sheriff's Office utilizes online crime reporting and collaborates with local police for community safety initiatives. Although overall crime rose 8% from 2022, recent investments in public safety and neighborhood watch programs aim to reverse this trend. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity through non-emergency numbers or the online portal.