Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Nolan County, Texas, had a population of approximately 14,763. The median age was around 39.6 years. Females made up 50.6% of the population, and males 49.4%. Racially, about 75.2% were White, 6.9% Black or African American, 1.1% Native American, and 1% Asian, with 14.6% identifying as two or more races. Hispanic or Latino individuals comprised roughly 37.7% of the total population.

Elections

Nolan County, TX had 7,822 registered voters in 2022. The county holds general, primary, and special elections, with key polling locations in Sweetwater and Roscoe. In the 2020 presidential election, 78.6% voted Republican and 20.8% Democrat; turnout reached 58%. Main issues include wind energy development and rural infrastructure. The Elections Office administers voting, ensuring compliance with state law. Partisan control has skewed Republican in recent decades, with both local and state races dominated by the GOP. Voters can check registration and results via the county official website or at designated polling sites.

Education, Employment and Housing

Nolan County, TX, has around 13 public schools, including three high schools: Sweetwater High, Roscoe Collegiate High, and Blackwell High. About 81.2% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 13.2% possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. On average, public schools score 5/10 on GreatSchools ratings. School safety incidents are relatively low, and districts offer vocational, dual-credit, and STEM programs. Adult education is available via local ISDs and regional colleges like Western Texas College.

As of 2022, Nolan County, TX, held an employment rate of approximately 56.4%. Leading industries include Health Care & Social Assistance (18%), Retail Trade (13%), and Manufacturing (11%). Major occupation types are Office & Administrative Support (15%), Sales (12%), and Production (10%). The average commute time is about 19.6 minutes, with over 79% of residents driving alone to work. Most employees work within the county, particularly in Sweetwater, though a notable share commutes to neighboring counties such as Taylor and Mitchell for employment opportunities.

Nolan County, TX, has a homeownership rate of about 68%, with the median home value around $82,000 (2022). Median rent is approximately $750 monthly. The market has shown modest growth, with values rising about 7% year-over-year. Housing types are primarily single-family homes, with some duplexes and apartments. Notable neighborhoods include Sweetwater and Roscoe. Property tax rates average 1.68%, meaning an annual tax of about $1,378 on a median-valued home. The area offers affordable options compared to state averages, appealing to both buyers and renters.

County Crime & Safety

Nolan County, TX, has a moderate crime rate compared to state averages. In 2022, the violent crime rate was approximately 3.4 per 1,000 residents, with 11 reported violent crimes. Property crime remained higher, at about 19.8 per 1,000 residents, totaling 64 incidents. The county’s law enforcement actively reports to the Texas Department of Public Safety, contributing to a clearance rate above 30%. Overall, while property crimes are more prevalent, Nolan County maintains a generally safe environment, with crime rates below the national average.