Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Texas County, Missouri, had a population of 24,487. The median age was 43.9 years, with 49.5% male and 50.5% female residents. The racial makeup was primarily White (95.1%), followed by Native American (1.2%), two or more races (2.7%), and a small proportion of Black, Asian, and other races. Hispanic or Latino residents accounted for 1.9% of the population.

Elections

As of 2024, Texas County, Missouri, has approximately 16,500 registered voters. The county administers primary, general, and special elections for federal, state, and local offices. In the 2020 presidential election, about 75% of votes favored the Republican candidate. There are 16 polling locations managed by the Texas County Clerk’s Office. Key local issues include road maintenance and school funding. The Republican Party dominates, with Democrats and Libertarians present. Voter turnout in general elections typically exceeds 60%. Election administration follows Missouri Secretary of State guidelines, ensuring transparency and accessibility.

Education, Employment and Housing

Texas County, MO, has around 15 public schools, including several high schools, serving approximately 4,000 students. The high school graduation rate is near 88%, while about 14% of adults possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average standardized test scores are slightly below state averages. School safety measures and community programs support a positive learning environment. Adult education opportunities include GED and vocational programs facilitated by local partnerships. Overall, Texas County schools strive for educational improvement, though higher education attainment remains a challenge for the region.

As of 2022, Texas County, MO had an employment rate of approximately 52.4%. The largest industries include Health Care & Social Assistance (21.4%), Retail Trade (13.3%), and Manufacturing (10.3%). Major occupation types are Management, Sales, and Healthcare Support. The average commute time is about 26.3 minutes, with 81% of workers driving alone and most employed locally or in neighboring counties. Unemployment hovers around 4.4%, reflecting a steady rural labor market.

Texas County, MO features a homeownership rate of about 75%, with median home values around $128,000 and typical monthly rents near $760 (2022 data). The housing market is stable, marked by gradual value increases of 3–5% annually. Single-family homes dominate, with some multi-family units and mobile homes present. Key neighborhoods include Houston, Cabool, and Licking, each offering a blend of rural and small-town living. Property taxes are low, averaging roughly 0.72% of home value, making the area affordable for buyers and tenants alike.

County Crime & Safety

Texas County, MO, has a crime rate higher than the national average, with recent reports indicating approximately 30.2 crimes per 1,000 residents annually. Violent crime rate stands at 3.2 per 1,000, while property crime is at 27 per 1,000. The Texas County Sheriff’s Office is primary for crime reporting and enforcement. Community safety initiatives are ongoing, yet residents are advised to stay vigilant. Arrest rates and crime clearance align with state averages, but proactive reporting is encouraged to maintain and improve safety standards.