Wharton County Public RecordsTexas

As of 2022, Wharton County, TX, has a population of approximately 41,500. The median age is 39.5 years, with 50.2% female and 49.8% male. Racial/ethnic composition is about 44% White (non-Hispanic), 13% Black or African American, 2% Asian, and 0.2% Native American, with 39% identifying as Hispanic or Latino of any race. The county’s demographic balance reflects the rich diversity of Southeast Texas.

Wharton County, TX, had 26,467 registered voters in 2022. Elections include local, state, and federal races; in the 2020 presidential election, 72.1% voted Republican and 27.1% Democrat. The county operates about 15 polling locations, including the Wharton Civic Center. Key issues are property taxes, education, and agriculture. The Elections Administration Office manages voter registration and elections. Republican and Democratic parties maintain local offices, with Republicans holding most county seats. Early voting and Election Day polls are both available, and turnout typically ranges from 50% to 65% in major elections.

Wharton County, TX, is served by several school districts, including Wharton ISD and El Campo ISD, comprising about 15 public schools. The county has a high school graduation rate of around 87% and a bachelor’s degree attainment of about 13%. Average school ratings hover around 5/10 (GreatSchools). Wharton County Junior College provides strong adult education and workforce programs. School safety is a priority, with districts implementing security protocols and resource officers. Educational programs cover career and technical education, dual-credit, and extracurricular activities, supporting diverse student needs and adult learners.

As of 2023, Wharton County, TX reports an employment rate of approximately 57%, with about 19,400 residents in the labor force. Leading industries include Health Care & Social Assistance (13.9%), Retail Trade (11.1%), and Educational Services (9.6%). Major occupation types are Office & Administrative Support (12.8%), Sales (9.6%), and Management roles (8.4%). About 79% of workers commute alone by car, and the average travel time to work is 26 minutes. The majority of employed residents work within Wharton County, while a significant number commute to nearby Houston and Fort Bend County.

Wharton County, TX, has a homeownership rate of about 68%, with a median home value near $156,000 (2022). Median gross rent is approximately $880. Housing types include single-family houses, with some apartments and mobile homes. Neighborhoods like El Campo and Wharton offer varying amenities and price points. The market has seen moderate growth, with home values rising around 4% year-over-year. Property taxes average 2.1% of assessed value, translating to about $3,276 annually for a median-priced home. The area remains relatively affordable compared to statewide averages, attracting both homeowners and renters.

Wharton County, TX, experiences a moderate crime rate compared to state averages. As of 2023, the violent crime rate stands at approximately 3.8 per 1,000 residents, while property crime is around 18.2 per 1,000. The sheriff's office encourages active crime reporting, contributing to a roughly 5% annual decrease in incidents since 2020. Although overall crime is below Texas’s average, certain areas within the county have higher rates. Community policing and neighborhood watch programs play a significant role in improving safety and fostering trust between law enforcement and residents.