Demographics

Val Verde County, Texas, has an estimated population of approximately 48,100 (2022). The median age is around 33.6 years. About 50.2% are male and 49.8% female. The racial and ethnic composition is predominantly Hispanic or Latino (over 80%), with approximately 17% White (non-Hispanic), 1.5% Black or African American, and 1.3% other races. The county reflects a young, predominantly Hispanic community.

Elections

Val Verde County, TX, has approximately 31,000 residents and around 20,000 registered voters. Elections include federal, state, county, city, and school board races. In the 2020 presidential election, 53% voted Republican and 46% Democrat. Polling locations include the Val Verde County Courthouse and Del Rio Civic Center. Key issues are border security and education. The Val Verde County Elections Office administers elections, ensuring compliance with state law. Republicans and Democrats are the major parties, both active locally. Voter turnout averages 55% in general elections and 12% in local contests.

Education, Employment and Housing

Val Verde County, TX, has around 25 public schools, including 2 high schools. About 75% of adults hold at least a high school diploma, while approximately 16% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. The largest district, San Felipe Del Rio CISD, has a graduation rate near 90%. School safety scores are above state average, with strong security protocols. Educational programs include bilingual and career and technical education. Overall, academic performance scores average 74 out of 100, reflecting steady improvement and community engagement in adult education initiatives.

Val Verde County, TX, had an employment rate of approximately 56% in 2022. Major industries include educational services, health care, and social assistance (22%), followed by retail trade (13%) and public administration (11%). The leading occupation types are office/administrative support (15%) and sales (12%). The mean commute time is around 18 minutes, with nearly 83% of workers driving alone to work. Most employment is centered in Del Rio, the county seat, with a significant portion (over 87%) of residents working within the county.

Val Verde County, TX, has a homeownership rate of approximately 66%, with a median home value around $137,000, notably below the national average. The median gross rent is about $900 monthly. Housing consists mainly of single-family homes, with some apartments and mobile homes. Neighborhoods like Del Rio and Laughlin AFB cater to families and military personnel. Property values have risen modestly, about 5% over the past year. The average property tax rate is roughly 1.25%. Affordable housing and a stable market make the county attractive for residents seeking lower costs compared to urban Texas areas.

County Crime & Safety

Val Verde County, TX, reported a crime rate of 22.7 per 1,000 residents in 2022, with property crime more prevalent than violent crime. Violent crime (including assault and robbery) accounted for about 3.2 per 1,000 residents, whereas property crimes (burglary, theft) stood at 19.5 per 1,000. The sheriff’s office and Del Rio Police emphasize community involvement and regular reporting, reflected in slightly lower crime rates compared to the Texas average. Public safety initiatives and neighborhood watch programs continue to improve response and prevention efforts county-wide.