Harris County, located in southeastern Texas, is the state's most populous county and includes Houston, the fourth-largest city in the U.S. Established in 1836, it spans over 1,700 square miles and serves as a major economic and cultural hub. The county features a diverse population, contributing to its vibrant arts, food, and cultural scenes. It hosts several Fortune 500 companies, a thriving energy industry, and the renowned Texas Medical Center. Key attractions include the Space Center Houston and a variety of museums, parks, and performing arts venues. It is governed by a Commissioners Court and has a robust public infrastructure.

People & Demographics

Harris County, TX, is home to approximately 4.8 million residents, making it the most populous county in Texas. The racial composition is diverse: around 43% Hispanic or Latino, 29% White, 19% Black or African American, and 8% Asian. The county has a median household income of about $63,000. Approximately 32% of the population is under 18, and around 11% is 65 and older. Over 30% of residents are foreign-born, contributing to a multilingual community, with Spanish widely spoken. This demographic mix influences the cultural and economic fabric of the region.

Harris County Public Records

To obtain Harris County, TX public records, visit the Harris County Clerk's Office website or office. Public records include birth and death certificates, marriage licenses, property records, court documents, and business filings. Some records can be requested online, while others may require an in-person visit or written request. For court documents, check the Harris County District Clerk’s website. Fees may apply for copies or certified records. Always provide specific details to expedite the search. For further assistance, you can contact the respective office directly.

Housing in Harris County

As of the latest available data, Harris County, TX, has a median home price of approximately $300,000. The area experienced a year-over-year price increase of about 5%. The average time a home stays on the market is around 45 days. Housing inventory has grown, with approximately 10,000 active listings. The county's homeownership rate hovers near 52%. New construction focuses on single-family homes, with permits for over 20,000 units granted annually. The rental vacancy rate stands at 8%, with average monthly rents around $1,200. Note that market conditions can change rapidly.

How Harris County Votes

As of the latest update, Harris County, Texas is preparing for several elections, including local, state, and federal positions. Key races involve:

  1. Harris County Judge: A crucial administrative role with candidates from the Democratic and Republican parties. Incumbent Lina Hidalgo (Democrat) previously faced significant challengers.

  2. U.S. House Representatives: Several districts, notably Districts 2, 7, 9, 18, 22, and 29, have candidates vying for positions. Prominent contenders include incumbents like Dan Crenshaw (R) and Lizzie Fletcher (D).

  3. Texas State Legislature: Numerous seats in both the State Senate and House are contested, influencing local policy-making significantly.

  4. Local Positions: Elections for roles such as Sheriff, District Clerk, and various judgeships, impacting law enforcement and judicial processes.

Voter registration numbers often exceed 2 million, with turnout varying by election type. For precise candidate lists and numerical results, refer to Harris County Elections Office.

Income & Poverty

As of the most recent data, Harris County, TX has an average household income of approximately $89,415. In comparison, the national average household income is around $87,864, and the state average for Texas is approximately $84,266. This indicates that Harris County's average income is slightly above both the state and national averages.

Below is a comparative table:

Location Average Household Income
Harris County $89,415
Texas (State) $84,266
United States $87,864

Harris County benefits from its diverse economy centered around key industries such as energy, healthcare, and technology, contributing to its income levels. However, it's essential to consider factors like cost of living and income inequality when interpreting these figures.

Harris County Crime Rates

As of the latest available data, Harris County, TX, has experienced various crime rates. In 2022, the overall crime rate was approximately 3,500 incidents per 100,000 residents. Violent crimes, including murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault, accounted for a significant portion. Property crimes, such as burglary, larceny-theft, and motor vehicle theft, were more prevalent but showed a slight decline compared to previous years.

Crime Type Number of Incidents per 100,000 Residents
Murder 9
Rape 64
Robbery 232
Aggravated Assault 530
Burglary 550
Larceny-Theft 1,850
Motor Vehicle Theft 265

These statistics provide a snapshot of the crime landscape in Harris County, emphasizing areas of concern and progress in crime reduction efforts.

Useful Links

Other Counties in Texas