Upshur County Public RecordsTexas

As of the 2020 Census, Upshur County, TX had a population of approximately 40,892. The median age is about 41 years. Gender distribution is nearly even, with 50.1% female and 49.9% male. The racial and ethnic makeup is 82.7% White (non-Hispanic), 8.6% Black or African American, 0.5% Asian, 0.6% Native American, and 6.8% Hispanic or Latino of any race, with other races comprising the remainder.

Upshur County, TX had approximately 27,000 registered voters as of 2024. Voters participate in federal, state, county, and local elections, including primary, general, and runoff types. In the 2020 presidential election, about 84% of votes went to Republicans and 15% to Democrats. Voting occurs at 16 polling locations across the county. Common issues include property taxes and school funding. Elections are administered by the county clerk’s office, with the Republican Party dominating local offices. Voter turnout typically ranges from 55% to 65% in general elections.

Upshur County, TX, has around 23 public schools, including Gladewater, Gilmer, Harmony, New Diana, and Union Grove ISDs. The high school graduation rate is about 89%, but only 14% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, below the Texas average. Schools’ average test scores typically fall near the state average, with a GreatSchools rating of 5/10. Programs include FFA, career tech, and dual-credit courses. Adult education options are available through community colleges. School safety is a focus, with resource officers and safety drills across districts.

As of 2022, Upshur County, TX had an employment rate of approximately 53%. Key industries include Health Care & Social Assistance (15.8%), Retail Trade (12.6%), and Manufacturing (10.1%). Most common occupations are Office & Administrative Support (11.3%), Sales (10.4%), and Management (9.3%). About 85% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 28.4 minutes. While many residents work locally, over 30% commute to nearby counties such as Gregg and Smith for employment opportunities.

Upshur County, TX, has a homeownership rate of about 78%, with median home values around $163,000 in 2023. Rental options are limited, with median rents near $950 per month. The county’s housing types include mostly single-family homes on spacious lots, particularly in areas like Gilmer and Gladewater. The market has seen modest growth, with property values increasing approximately 5% year-over-year. Property tax rates average 1.48%, lower than the Texas state average, making Upshur County an affordable option. Neighborhoods are generally quiet and family-oriented, offering rural charm and small-town amenities.

Upshur County, TX, experiences relatively low crime rates compared to state and national averages. In 2023, the overall crime rate was about 1,230 incidents per 100,000 residents, with violent crime at 130 per 100,000 and property crime at 1,100 per 100,000. The sheriff’s office and local police actively report and monitor incidents, emphasizing community safety. Recent statistics show a slight decrease in burglaries and thefts, though occasional drug-related offenses occur. Public safety initiatives and neighborhood watch programs contribute to the county’s consistently favorable safety rankings.