Demographics

Jasper County, Texas, has a population of about 32,980 (2022 estimate). The median age is around 41 years. Gender distribution is nearly even, with 49% male and 51% female. Racially, the county is approximately 68% White, 21% Black or African American, 7% Hispanic or Latino, 1% Asian, and 3% two or more races. The population reflects a moderately diverse, predominantly White and African American community with a small but growing Hispanic presence.

Elections

Jasper County, TX, had approximately 22,100 registered voters as of 2024. The county conducts general, primary, and local elections, with recent results showing about 68% voter turnout in the 2020 presidential election. Polling locations include the Courthouse, Fire Department, and several community centers. Key issues include economic development and public safety. Elections are overseen by the Jasper County Elections Administrator. The area predominantly supports the Republican Party, which received 75% of the vote in 2022, while Democrats garnered 24%. Voter registration and information are managed both online and at county offices.

Education, Employment and Housing

Jasper County, TX, has 15 public schools, including two high schools. The high school graduation rate is 89%, but only 12% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average school test scores are 36% (below the Texas average). School safety programs are active; incidents are below the state median. Educational programs include vocational training and dual-credit courses, but adult education opportunities are limited. Overall, while basic education access is solid, higher education attainment and test performance present significant challenges for the county.

As of 2022, Jasper County, TX had an employment rate of approximately 52%, with 13,200 residents employed. Major industries include Health Care & Social Assistance (16%), Retail Trade (14%), and Educational Services (11%). Most common occupations are Office & Administrative Support (13%) and Sales (10%). About 88% of residents commute by car, with a mean travel time of 25 minutes. Nearly 70% of workers are employed within the county, while the remainder commutes to nearby areas such as Beaumont and Lufkin. Unemployment rate averaged around 5.7%.

Jasper County, TX, reports a homeownership rate of about 75%, with a median home value near $120,000 as of 2023. The median rent is approximately $800 per month. The housing market is relatively stable, with gradual value increases of around 2–3% annually. Housing stock primarily consists of single-family homes, with some mobile homes and duplexes. Key neighborhoods include Jasper, Buna, and Kirbyville. Property tax rates average 1.8% of assessed value. The area offers affordable living, appealing to families and retirees seeking quiet, rural neighborhoods.

County Crime & Safety

Jasper County, TX, reports a crime rate slightly above the national average, with a total crime rate of about 35 per 1,000 residents in 2023. Violent crimes, including aggravated assault and robbery, account for roughly 4 per 1,000 residents, while property crimes such as burglary and theft stand at approximately 31 per 1,000. The Jasper County Sheriff's Office and local police actively report and investigate incidents. Efforts to improve safety include increased community policing and crime prevention programs, aiming to reduce these numbers in future years.