Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Oldham County, TX had a population of 1,758. The median age was about 47 years, with approximately 53% male and 47% female residents. The racial makeup was 89.6% White, 1.2% Black or African American, 1.7% Native American, 0.4% Asian, and 6.6% from other races; 23.6% of the population identified as Hispanic or Latino of any race.

Elections

Oldham County, TX, had approximately 1,350 registered voters as of 2022. It conducts general, primary, and local elections, with major contests typically between Republican and Democratic parties—Republicans dominate, earning over 85% of the vote in recent general elections. Standard polling locations include the Oldham County Courthouse in Vega. Election administration is overseen by the county clerk. Main issues often involve local agriculture and property taxes. Voter turnout in the 2020 presidential election was about 70%. The county has minimal third-party participation and a straightforward in-person and mail-in voting process.

Education, Employment and Housing

Oldham County, TX, has a primary school district, the Vega Independent School District, featuring Vega High School and an elementary school. The county has about 2 public schools, with a high school graduation rate near 90%. Approximately 18% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Standardized test scores are close to the Texas state average. School safety is rated favorably, with low incident reports. Extracurriculars and programs include FFA, athletics, and UIL academics. Adult education offerings are limited locally, often accessed in nearby Amarillo or online.

As of 2022, Oldham County, TX had an employment rate of approximately 62%, with around 900 residents in the labor force. The largest industries were Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing & Hunting (19%), Educational Services (17%), and Health Care & Social Assistance (15%). Most common occupations included Management (22%), Office & Administrative Support (15%), and Education, Training & Library (10%). About 78% of workers commuted by car, with an average commute time of 19 minutes, and roughly 52% worked outside their county of residence.

Oldham County, TX, features a homeownership rate of about 76%, with median home values around $106,000 as of 2023. Median gross rents average $798 monthly. The market has seen stable prices with modest annual growth near 2%. Housing mainly consists of single-family homes, with some mobile homes and few apartments. Towns like Vega offer tight-knit neighborhoods. The county’s property tax rate is approximately 1.40%. Renters comprise roughly 24% of residents, and affordable housing options are prevalent.

County Crime & Safety

Oldham County, TX, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. According to recent FBI data, the county reported fewer than 50 total criminal incidents in 2022, with violent crimes—such as assault or robbery—being rare (less than 1 per 1,000 residents). Property crimes, including burglary and theft, also remain minimal. Law enforcement emphasizes community engagement, and residents typically report high feelings of safety. Overall, Oldham County’s crime rate is significantly below the Texas average of 25.6 offenses per 1,000 people, ensuring a secure environment for its small population.