Demographics

As of 2022, Hemphill County, TX has a population of approximately 3,270 residents. The median age is around 38 years. About 51% are male and 49% female. The racial composition is predominantly White (about 80%), with Hispanic or Latino residents making up approximately 18%, and smaller representations from Black (1%), Native American, Asian, and other races. The community is largely rural, reflecting a small-town demographic profile.

Elections

Hemphill County, TX, had about 2,000 residents and 1,350 registered voters as of 2022. The county conducts local, state, and federal elections, with the Republican Party typically dominant—Donald Trump received around 89% of the vote in 2020. Polling locations include the Hemphill County Courthouse in Canadian, the county seat. Elections are managed by the county elections administrator, addressing issues like voter turnout (about 65% in recent presidential elections) and ballot access. Voter participation skews older, and main parties are Republican and Democratic, but minor parties have minimal local impact.

Education, Employment and Housing

Hemphill County, TX, primarily served by Canadian ISD, has 2 public schools: Canadian Elementary and Canadian High School, with a combined enrollment of about 620 students. The high school graduation rate is around 94%. Approximately 21% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Texas Education Agency rates Canadian ISD as “A” for accountability, reflecting strong academic performance. School safety measures are in place, with zero reported major incidents in recent years. Educational programs include gifted/talented services and dual credit courses, supporting both career and college readiness for students.

Hemphill County, TX, had an employment rate of around 64% in 2022. The county’s workforce is mainly in agriculture, oil and gas extraction, and educational services, with approximately 25% in natural resources/mining and 20% in education/healthcare. Occupational types are led by management, production, and office/administrative roles. About 86% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 16 minutes. Over 65% work within the county, while the rest commute to neighboring areas like Wheeler or Canadian, TX.

Hemphill County, TX, has a homeownership rate of about 75%, with median home values around $150,000 as of 2023. Rental occupancy is approximately 25%, and average rents are near $900/month. The county’s housing stock is largely single-family homes, with some duplexes and mobile homes. Canadian is the primary city, featuring established neighborhoods. Property values have appreciated moderately at 3–4% annually. Property tax rates average 1.5%, translating to about $2,250 annually for a median-value home, making the area accessible for both buyers and renters.

County Crime & Safety

Hemphill County, TX, remains one of the safer regions in Texas, with a crime rate of 12.6 per 1,000 residents—well below the national average. In 2023, there were only 10 reported crimes, including 2 violent and 8 property-related incidents. The Sheriff's Office ensures regular reporting and community alerts, contributing to high public safety. With a 1 in 79 chance of becoming a crime victim, residents generally experience a secure environment. Law enforcement's proactive measures and community engagement further support Hemphill's low crime and efficient reporting rates.