Karnes County Public RecordsTexas

As of the 2020 Census, Karnes County, TX had a population of approximately 14,710. The median age was around 40.6 years. Gender distribution was roughly 55% male and 45% female, influenced by correctional facilities in the area. Racially, 76% identified as White, 7% Black or African American, and 2% Asian, with other races and multiracial groups comprising the remainder. Hispanic or Latino residents made up about 53% of the county’s population.

Karnes County, Texas, had 7,260 registered voters in 2022. The county hosts primary, general, and special elections, with recent turnout at 41% in the 2020 presidential election. Major parties include Republican and Democratic; in 2020, Republicans won most races (Trump received 74% of the vote). Polling locations include the Karnes County Courthouse Annex and Kenedy City Hall. Typical issues include oil industry regulations and property taxes. Elections are administered by the County Elections Administrator. Voter registration forms are available online and in person, and early voting is offered at designated sites.

Karnes County, TX, has 9 public schools, including 3 high schools. Approximately 78% of adults have a high school diploma, but only about 9% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average school ratings fall near 5/10 on GreatSchools. Student-to-teacher ratios are about 13:1. Educational programs include advanced placement and career-technical courses. School safety initiatives include on-site officers and anti-bullying measures. Adult education and GED preparation are available through regional partnerships.

As of 2023, Karnes County, TX, had an employment rate of approximately 54.8%. Major industries include mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction (over 30% of employment), followed by health care and social assistance (11%), and educational services (8%). Occupations are led by production, transportation, and material moving (29%), and management, business, science, and arts (23%). About 84% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 28.5 minutes. Key employment centers are Karnes City and Kenedy, with some residents commuting to San Antonio and Beeville.

Karnes County, TX, has a homeownership rate of around 68%, with median home values near $106,000 as of 2023. Typical monthly rent is about $850. The housing market has seen modest annual increases of 2–4% in value. Most homes are single-family houses, with some mobile homes. Key neighborhoods include Karnes City and Kenedy. Property tax rates average 1.7%, meaning a $106,000 home pays about $1,800 annually. The area offers affordable living compared to state and national averages.

Karnes County, TX, has a crime rate lower than the Texas state average. In 2023, the county reported approximately 150 crimes, including 20 violent and 130 property offenses. The violent crime rate is about 2.8 per 1,000 residents, while property crime stands at 18.3 per 1,000. Law enforcement actively reports to the Texas Department of Public Safety, ensuring transparency. Overall, Karnes County is considered safer than 65% of Texas counties, though residents are advised to stay vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to maintain community safety.