Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Wheeler County, TX, had a population of 4,990. The median age was about 40.2 years, with 50.3% male and 49.7% female residents. Racially, the county was 86.2% White, 3.6% Black or African American, 1.5% Native American, 0.4% Asian, and 5.9% from other races; 2.4% reported two or more races. Hispanic or Latino individuals comprised 18.7% of the population.

Elections

Wheeler County, TX, had approximately 3,000 registered voters as of 2024. Elections include federal, state, local, and special referenda; in the 2020 Presidential election, 88% voted Republican, 11% Democrat. Major polling locations include Wheeler Civic Center and Shamrock Community Building. Key issues involve rural healthcare and education funding. The Elections Administration oversees procedures, ensuring compliance and accessibility. The county leans heavily Republican, with the GOP holding most local offices, while Democrats represent a minority. Voter turnout averaged 61% in recent general elections, reflecting engaged but modest participation relative to the county's small population.

Education, Employment and Housing

Wheeler County, TX, serves its small population with limited educational facilities, featuring three public schools across two districts. Wheeler High School is the primary secondary institution. About 82% of adults have at least a high school diploma, while roughly 14% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The schools scored an average of 6/10 on state accountability ratings. Educational programs include vocational training and dual-credit courses. School safety is prioritized, with regular drills and a low incidence of disciplinary issues. Adult education opportunities are available through partnerships with nearby community colleges.

As of 2022, Wheeler County, TX had a labor force participation rate of approximately 57%, with an unemployment rate around 2.7%. Major employment sectors include agriculture, forestry, fishing, hunting (15%), educational, health, and social services (20%), and retail trade (12%). Most workers are employed in management, sales, and production occupations. About 80% commute alone by car, with a mean travel time of 18 minutes. While the majority are employed within the county, some commute to larger nearby areas, such as Shamrock or Pampa, for work.

Wheeler County, TX, has a homeownership rate of approximately 76%, with median home values around $90,000 and median gross rents near $710 monthly. Property values have remained relatively stable, rising modestly by 3% year-over-year. Housing primarily consists of single-family homes, with modest multi-family or apartment options. Notable neighborhoods include Wheeler, Shamrock, and Mobeetie. Property tax rates average 1.54%, resulting in annual taxes of roughly $1,385 for a median-priced home. Overall, Wheeler County offers affordable housing with a strong ownership base and steady market trends.

County Crime & Safety

Wheeler County, TX reports relatively low crime rates compared to state averages. According to the latest data, the county had a total crime rate of approximately 750 incidents per 100,000 residents, with violent crimes accounting for 80 per 100,000—significantly below Texas’s average. Property crimes are the most common, while major violent offenses remain rare. The Wheeler County Sheriff’s Office handles crime reporting and public safety, ensuring consistent law enforcement presence. Overall, the county is considered a safe, rural community, with occasional minor crime primarily related to property.