Demographics

As of 2023, Refugio County, TX has a population of approximately 6,700. The median age is 43.2 years, with about 50.3% male and 49.7% female. Racially, the county is 60% White, 8% Black or African American, and 1% Asian; 30% identify as two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents make up about 52% of the population, reflecting the county’s significant ethnic diversity.

Elections

Refugio County, TX, has roughly 4,700 registered voters as of 2024. Elections include federal, state, and local levels, with 2022 midterms showing 65% GOP and 34% Democratic support. The county has 7 polling locations, such as the Refugio Community Center. Recent issues include hurricane recovery and school funding. Elections are overseen by the Refugio County Elections Administrator. Party presence is dominated by Republicans, with some Democratic activity. Voter turnout in recent general elections averaged around 58%.

Education, Employment and Housing

Refugio County, TX has 7 public schools, including 1 high school, serving about 1,200 students. The high school graduation rate is approximately 90%, while about 15% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average state test scores are below the Texas state average, with a 62% proficiency in reading and 55% in math. School safety initiatives include campus security measures and anti-bullying programs. Educational programs include dual-credit courses, vocational training, and extracurriculars, supporting well-rounded development for students. Adult education offerings are limited locally, with some GED and workforce training available.

As of 2022, Refugio County, TX, had an employment rate of 57.5%. Key industries include Health Care & Social Assistance (14.6%), Educational Services (11.3%), and Mining, Quarrying, Oil & Gas Extraction (10.8%). The most common occupations are Office & Administrative Support (14.5%) and Sales (10.7%). About 82.3% of workers commute alone by car, with an average commute time of 26 minutes. Major employment destinations for residents include Corpus Christi (22.6%), Victoria (14.1%), and local employers within Refugio County.

Refugio County, TX, has a homeownership rate of about 75%, with median home values around $110,000 and median gross rents near $850. The property market remains affordable, with modest appreciation in recent years. Housing types primarily include single-family homes, with some mobile homes and limited multi-family units. Notable neighborhoods are Refugio, Woodsboro, and Bayside, each offering a small-town feel. Annual property taxes average 1.7% of assessed value, lower than state averages. Rentals comprise roughly 25% of the housing stock, catering to a small but steady renter population.

County Crime & Safety

Refugio County, TX, maintains relatively low crime rates compared to state averages. In 2022, the county reported a total of 68 crimes, including 6 violent crimes and 62 property crimes, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety. The crime rate per 1,000 residents stands at approximately 11.3, significantly below the Texas average. Local law enforcement actively encourages public participation in crime reporting, contributing to prompt response and prevention. Overall, Refugio County is considered a safe community, with continuous efforts to maintain and improve public safety.