Starr County Public RecordsTexas

As of the 2020 Census, Starr County, TX had a population of 65,920. The median age was 29.2 years. Gender distribution was roughly equal: 50.1% female and 49.9% male. The population was predominantly Hispanic or Latino at 97.7%, with White (non-Hispanic) residents comprising only 1.5%, and other racial/ethnic groups—including Black, Asian, and Native American—making up less than 1% each.

Starr County, TX, recorded approximately 35,000 registered voters in 2022. Voters participate in federal, state, county, and local elections, including primaries and run-offs. In the 2020 Presidential Election, Starr County voted 52% Democratic and 47% Republican, a notable shift from previous cycles. Polling locations, usually around 20, are found in schools and community centers across the county. Key issues include border policy and education. Elections are administered by the Starr County Elections Department, with both Democratic and Republican parties active locally, each fielding candidates and coordinating voter outreach.

Starr County, TX, has 27 public schools serving over 13,000 students, with Rio Grande City High School and Roma High School among the largest. Around 55% of adults hold a high school diploma, but only 10% have a bachelor’s degree or higher, lower than the Texas average. School ratings average 5/10, reflecting academic challenges. Efforts include adult education programs through South Texas College and enhanced school safety measures such as campus police. Educational initiatives focus on bilingual education, STEM, and college readiness to improve outcomes.

As of 2022, Starr County, TX, had an employment rate of 48.2% among residents 16 and over. Leading industries included Educational Services, Health Care & Social Assistance (35.3%), and Retail Trade (10.1%). Most common occupations were Office & Administrative Support (16.2%), Sales (10.8%), and Education, Training & Library roles (9.2%). The average commute time was 28.4 minutes; about 84.6% of workers drove alone, while 10.2% carpooled. A significant portion of employees worked within the county, though some commuted to nearby cities like McAllen and Laredo.

Starr County, TX, has a homeownership rate of about 72%, with the median home value near $82,000 (2022 ACS). Median gross rent stands around $589. The county primarily features single-family homes, with some mobile homes common in rural areas. Popular neighborhoods include Roma, Rio Grande City, and La Grulla. Recent years have seen stable property values, though growth is below the national average. Property tax rates average approximately 2.2%, making taxes on a median-priced home about $1,800 annually. The housing market remains affordable by Texas standards, appealing to families and first-time buyers.

Starr County, TX, has a crime rate lower than the national average, with a total crime rate of approximately 2,050 incidents per 100,000 residents in 2023. Violent crime remains relatively low, at about 230 per 100,000, while property crime stands at 1,820 per 100,000. The sheriff’s office actively reports and investigates crimes, promoting safety through community programs. Recent statistics indicate a slight decrease in crime compared to previous years, reflecting ongoing efforts to improve public safety and crime reporting accuracy in the county.