Wilbarger County Public RecordsTexas

As of 2022, Wilbarger County, TX has a population of approximately 12,800. The median age is about 39 years, with 52% male and 48% female residents. The racial and ethnic composition is predominantly White (66%), with Hispanic or Latino making up 26%, Black or African American 6%, and other races about 2%. This demographic profile reflects the county’s modest size and diverse community composition.

Wilbarger County, Texas, has approximately 8,000 registered voters out of a population of 12,887 (2020 census). The county holds general, primary, runoff, and special elections, with major polling locations in Vernon, the county seat. In the 2020 presidential election, about 75% of votes favored the Republican candidate. Issues like rural healthcare and agricultural policy often dominate ballots. The county is administered by an elected Elections Administrator. Active parties include Republican and Democratic, with Republicans holding most local offices. Voter turnout averages 50-60% in general elections. Voter registration closes 30 days before each election.

Wilbarger County, TX, has 10 public schools, including 1 high school (Vernon High School). About 80% graduate high school, while roughly 15% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools typically score around the Texas state average in standardized tests. Vernon ISD offers vocational and dual-credit programs. School safety measures include security officers and visitor monitoring. Adult education is available through Vernon College, located within the county, providing GED and workforce training programs for over 1,700 students annually.

As of 2022, Wilbarger County, TX, had an employment rate of approximately 56% among residents aged 16 and older. Key employment sectors include Health Care & Social Assistance (18.5%), Retail Trade (13.1%), and Educational Services (12.2%). The most common occupations are in Office & Administrative Support (14.6%) and Management (11.8%). Around 85% of workers commute by car, with a mean travel time of 14.9 minutes. Most residents are employed within the county, particularly in Vernon, the county seat. Unemployment stood near 4.1% in late 2023.

Wilbarger County, TX, has a homeownership rate of approximately 66%, with a median home value of about $75,000—well below the national average. Median rent is around $700 per month. The housing market is stable, with modest annual value increases of about 2-3%. Most homes are single-family detached types in quiet neighborhoods like Vernon and Oklaunion. Property taxes average 1.6% of assessed value. The cost of living and property values are affordable, attracting both families and retirees seeking budget-friendly housing options. Rental properties make up about 30% of the market.

Wilbarger County, TX, maintains a crime rate lower than the national average. According to recent statistics, the county reports approximately 160 crimes annually, with violent crime rates at 2.9 per 1,000 residents and property crime at 14.4 per 1,000. The Vernon Police Department and Wilbarger County Sheriff’s Office handle incident reporting, emphasizing community safety and transparency. Overall, Wilbarger County is considered relatively safe, with law enforcement agencies actively promoting crime prevention and public awareness.