Douglas County Public RecordsMissouri

As of 2024, Douglas County, MO has about 8,200 registered voters. Elections include primary, general, and local (city/school board) contests. In the 2020 presidential race, 81% voted Republican, 18% Democrat. Major polling locations are in Ava, Goodhope, and Vanzant. Ballot issues in recent elections have focused on local taxes and school funding. The County Clerk administers elections; the office is at the Douglas County Courthouse in Ava. The area is predominantly Republican, with Democrats holding some local seats. Voter turnout averaged 65% in recent general elections.

As of the 2020 Census, Douglas County, MO had a population of 11,578. The median age was 45.4 years, with 50.5% female and 49.5% male residents. The racial composition was predominantly White (95.1%), with small percentages of Native American (0.8%), Black or African American (0.2%), Asian (0.2%), and individuals of two or more races (3.0%). Hispanic or Latino residents made up 1.8% of the population.

Douglas County, MO maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. As of 2023, violent crime incidents stand at approximately 2.4 per 1,000 residents, while property crime is reported at 7.9 per 1,000. The county sheriff’s office actively encourages community reporting, contributing to a clearance rate of about 35%. Continued efforts in law enforcement and community programs support an overall perception of safety among Douglas County’s approximately 11,500 residents.

Douglas County, MO has around 8 public schools, including 1 high school (Ava High School). About 78% of adults hold a high school diploma, while only 12% have a bachelor’s degree or higher, below the national average. School safety is generally rated average, with limited security incidents reported. Educational programs mainly focus on core academics, agriculture, and technical skills. The county offers adult education and GED prep through community centers. Average standardized test scores fall below state averages, indicating challenges in academic performance and resources.

As of 2022, Douglas County, MO has an employment rate of approximately 53.5%. Major industries include Health Care & Social Assistance (18%), Retail Trade (15%), and Manufacturing (13%). The leading occupation types are Management, Business, Science, and Arts (27%), followed by Sales and Office (19%). Over 83% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 28 minutes. Around 72% work outside the county, primarily commuting to neighboring Webster, Wright, or Christian counties.

Douglas County, MO has a homeownership rate of around 76%, with median home values near $142,000 as of 2023. Rental options are limited, with median rents approximately $700/month. The market trends show modest appreciation, with values rising about 5% year-over-year. Housing types are primarily single-family homes and mobile/manufactured homes. Key neighborhoods include Ava (the county seat) and surrounding rural communities. Property tax rates average 0.85%, meaning annual taxes on a median-value home are roughly $1,207. Affordable housing and a slower-paced market define Douglas County’s real estate landscape.