Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Parmer County, TX, had a population of 9,869. The median age was about 32.7 years. Gender distribution was nearly even, with approximately 50.4% male and 49.6% female. Racially, the population was 74.6% White, 1.5% Black or African American, 1.1% Native American, and 0.6% Asian. Hispanic or Latino residents made up 57.3% of the population, reflecting the county’s significant Hispanic community.

Elections

Parmer County, TX had 5,178 registered voters as of 2022. Elections include primaries, general, school board, and bond elections. In the 2020 Presidential election, 83.4% voted Republican and 15.7% Democrat. Key polling locations are in Friona, Farwell, and Bovina. Major issues include property taxes and school funding. The county clerk’s office administers elections, mainly supported by the Republican and Democratic parties. In the 2022 General Election, turnout was 47%.

Education, Employment and Housing

Parmer County, TX, has 9 public schools serving around 2,100 students, including Farwell and Friona High Schools. The high school graduation rate is approximately 86%, while only about 15% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average school ratings hover around 5/10. Programs focus on career and technical education. School safety reports are generally favorable, with minimal incidents reported. Adult education opportunities are limited, though some GED and ESL classes are available locally.

As of 2022, Parmer County, TX, had an employment rate of approximately 59%, with about 4,100 employed residents. The leading industries are agriculture, forestry, fishing & hunting (27%), manufacturing (18%), and educational services (11%). The most common occupation categories include management (18%), production (15%), and office & administrative support (11%). Around 81% of workers commute alone by car, with an average travel time of 19.5 minutes. The majority of residents work within Parmer County, though some commute to neighboring Castro and Lubbock Counties.

Parmer County, TX, has a homeownership rate of about 70%, with median home values near $105,000 and median gross rents around $750. Most homes are single-family detached houses, though some duplexes and small apartment buildings exist, mainly in Friona and Bovina neighborhoods. The local housing market remains affordable, with modest property value growth of 2–4% annually. Property taxes average 1.6% of assessed value. The area offers quiet rural living with small-town amenities, attracting families seeking affordability over urban bustle. Rentals and homes are more available in the county’s larger towns.

County Crime & Safety

Parmer County, TX, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. In 2022, the county reported approximately 80 total offenses, including 10 violent crimes and 70 property crimes, according to Texas DPS data. The violent crime rate stands at 1.5 per 1,000 residents, while property crime is 10.5 per 1,000 residents. Local law enforcement emphasizes community policing and prompt reporting, contributing to steady crime resolution rates. Residents generally describe Parmer County as safe, with law enforcement agencies encouraging public involvement in crime prevention efforts.