Kent County Public RecordsTexas

As of the 2020 Census, Kent County, TX, had a population of 753. The median age was 53.9 years, with 20.5% under 18 and 27% aged 65 or older. Males comprised 52% and females 48%. The racial makeup was 83.3% White, 2.3% African American, 0.4% Native American, and 13.3% from other races; 19.1% identified as Hispanic or Latino.

Kent County, TX, has around 563 registered voters as of 2024 among a population of about 730. The county conducts local, state, and federal elections, mainly at the Jayton Community Center polling location. In the 2020 presidential election, 90% voted Republican, 9% Democrat. Key issues include agriculture and rural services. Elections are overseen by the County Clerk’s office. Voter turnout typically exceeds 70%. The county is predominantly Republican; Democratic presence is minimal. Voters may register year-round; mail-in voting is available upon request when eligible.

Kent County, TX, has very limited educational facilities, with only 1 public school district—Jayton-Girard ISD—serving pre-K through 12th grade. The high school graduation rate is above 90%, while only about 10% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. There are no colleges in the county. The district scores a B rating (above state average) per Texas Education Agency data. School safety incidents are low, given the small enrollment (approximately 150 students). Programs include athletics, FFA, and dual-credit courses. Adult education options are minimal, requiring residents to travel or access online courses.

As of 2022, Kent County, TX had an employment rate of approximately 53.9%. The leading employment industries were agriculture, forestry, fishing & hunting (23%), educational services, and health care & social assistance (18%). Major occupations included management (27%) and natural resources, construction, and maintenance (25%). A majority of workers—over 70%—commuted alone by car, with an average commute time of 21.2 minutes. Most residents are employed within Kent County or neighboring counties, reflecting the rural character and limited urban employment centers.

Kent County, TX, has a high homeownership rate of approximately 79%, with median home values around $69,000 as of 2023. Rental options are limited, with median gross rent near $700 monthly. Housing primarily consists of single-family detached homes, with few multi-unit properties. The real estate market remains stable, with small fluctuations in value. Communities are rural, with Jayton as the main neighborhood and county seat. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging 1.37% of a home's assessed value, notably below state averages. The area appeals to those seeking affordable, quiet, small-town living.

Kent County, TX, is among the safest counties in Texas, with a notably low crime rate. In 2022, the county reported only 2 property crimes and 0 violent crimes, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety. With a population of around 715, this translates to crime rates of approximately 2.8 per 1,000 residents. Law enforcement presence is minimal but effective due to the low population density. Residents report a strong sense of safety and community vigilance, with crime statistics consistently below state and national averages.