Polk County, Texas, located in the southeastern part of the state, is known for its lush landscapes and vast forests, particularly the Sam Houston National Forest. Established in 1846 and named after President James K. Polk, the county has its seat in Livingston. It offers outdoor recreational activities around Lake Livingston, one of Texas's largest lakes. The economy is driven by timber, agriculture, and energy sectors. Rich in history and natural beauty, Polk County provides a blend of rural living with access to nature reserves and waterways, attracting residents and tourists seeking a serene environment.
People & Demographics
As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Polk County, Texas, had a population of approximately 50,123. The racial composition was 73.2% White, 13.3% Black or African American, 17.9% Hispanic or Latino, 1.6% Native American, 0.6% Asian, and 10.4% of two or more races. The median age was about 42 years. Household income averaged $48,402, and 18.3% of the population lived below the poverty line. The county spans 1,061 square miles, with Livingston as the county seat.
Polk County Public Records
To obtain Polk County, TX public records, visit the Polk County Clerk’s office either online or in person. The records available include property records, court records, marriage licenses, birth and death certificates, and business filings. For online access, search their official website for digital resources or databases. You can also contact their office for specific requests or guidance on how to access certain records. Be prepared to provide identification and pay any applicable fees for copies or certifications. It's advisable to check their website or call ahead for details on their hours and any necessary forms.
Housing in Polk County
Polk County, TX, features a diverse housing market. The median home price is approximately $200,000, reflecting a moderate increase over recent years. The county offers a mix of single-family homes, mobile homes, and rural properties. Property sizes vary widely, with many homes on large lots. The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is around $950 per month. Housing demand is steady, driven by its appeal for retirees and those seeking a rural lifestyle. New construction is limited but ongoing, with a focus on affordable housing. Overall, Polk County's real estate market is affordable compared to statewide averages.
How Polk County Votes
For the most current information on elections in Polk County, Texas, you should visit the Polk County elections office website or contact them directly, as they provide detailed and updated election information, including candidates, polling locations, and numerical values such as voter turnout and results.
In general, the election information would include:
- Candidates: Lists of candidates running for local offices such as county judge, commissioners, and other county positions.
- Voting Information: Details on voting locations, early voting, and election day procedures.
- Election Results: Numerical results for each race, indicating the number of votes each candidate received, voter turnout percentages, and any measures or propositions on the ballot.
Due to the specific and dynamic nature of election information, checking with official sources is recommended for the latest updates.
Income & Poverty
As of the most recent data available, Polk County, Texas, has a median household income of approximately $47,000. This figure is significantly lower than both the national median household income, which is around $68,700, and the Texas state median income, approximately $64,000.
This disparity highlights economic challenges within Polk County, likely influenced by its rural setting and economic base. The county's income levels may impact local access to services, education, and healthcare compared to more economically prosperous regions.
| Region | Median Household Income |
|---|---|
| Polk County | $47,000 |
| Texas | $64,000 |
| United States | $68,700 |
Understanding these income differentials can inform policies aimed at economic development and resource allocation to support communities within Polk County.
Polk County Crime Rates
As of the latest data, Polk County, Texas, has a varied crime rate that reflects a mix of urban and rural influences. The crime rate is 3,669 per 100,000 residents, which is higher than both the state and national averages. Property crimes are the most prevalent, followed by violent crimes.
| Crime Type | Incidents per 100,000 Residents |
|---|---|
| Violent Crimes | 420 |
| - Murder | 6 |
| - Rape | 55 |
| - Robbery | 35 |
| - Aggravated Assault | 324 |
| Property Crimes | 3,249 |
| - Burglary | 630 |
| - Theft | 2,200 |
| - Motor Vehicle Theft | 419 |
Efforts to enhance community safety are ongoing, aiming to reduce these numbers through various law enforcement and community initiatives.
Useful Links
Popular names in Polk County
- James Smith
- David Smith
- Robert Johnson
- James Jones
- David Johnson
- Michael Johnson
- David Phillips
- John Johnson
- Mary Smith
- Michael Brown
- Sandra Smith
- David Moore
- John Davis
- John Miller
- John Wilson
- Linda Smith
- Mary Johnson
- Michael Smith
- Patricia Johnson
- Tracy Knight
- Alicia Williams
- Charles Smith
- Clyde Haynes
- Cynthia Smith
- David Mitchell
- Gary Smith
- Georgie Bullock
- James Baker
- James Davis
- James Hassell
Table of Contents
Other Counties in Texas
- Anderson
- Andrews
- Angelina
- Aransas
- Archer
- Armstrong
- Atascosa
- Austin
- Bailey
- Bandera
- Bastrop
- Baylor
- Bee
- Bell
- Bexar
- Blanco
- Borden
- Bosque
- Bowie
- Brazoria
- Brazos
- Brewster
- Briscoe
- Brooks
- Brown
- Burleson
- Burnet
- Caldwell
- Calhoun
- Callahan
- Cameron
- Camp
- Carson
- Cass
- Castro
- Chambers
- Cherokee
- Childress
- Clay
- Cochran
- Coke
- Coleman
- Collin
- Collingsworth
- Colorado
- Comal
- Comanche
- Concho
- Cooke
- Coryell
- Cottle
- Crane
- Crockett
- Crosby
- Culberson
- Dallam
- Dallas
- Dawson
- De Witt
- Deaf Smith
- Delta
- Denton
- Dickens
- Dimmit
- Donley
- Duval
- Eastland
- Ector
- Edwards
- El Paso
- Ellis
- Erath
- Falls
- Fannin
- Fayette
- Fisher
- Floyd
- Foard
- Fort Bend
- Franklin
- Freestone
- Frio
- Gaines
- Galveston
- Garza
- Gillespie
- Glasscock
- Goliad
- Gonzales
- Gray
- Grayson
- Gregg
- Grimes
- Guadalupe
- Hale
- Hall
- Hamilton
- Hansford
- Hardeman
- Hardin
- Harris
- Harrison
- Hartley
- Haskell
- Hays
- Hemphill
- Henderson
- Hidalgo
- Hill
- Hockley
- Hood
- Hopkins
- Houston
- Howard
- Hudspeth
- Hunt
- Hutchinson
- Irion
- Jack
- Jackson
- Jasper
- Jeff Davis
- Jefferson
- Jim Hogg
- Jim Wells
- Johnson
- Jones
- Karnes
- Kaufman
- Kendall
- Kenedy
- Kent
- Kerr
- Kimble
- King
- Kinney
- Kleberg
- Knox
- La Salle
- Lamar
- Lamb
- Lampasas
- Lavaca
- Lee
- Leon
- Liberty
- Limestone
- Lipscomb
- Live Oak
- Llano
- Loving
- Lubbock
- Lynn
- Madison
- Marion
- Martin
- Mason
- Matagorda
- Maverick
- Mcculloch
- Mclennan
- Mcmullen
- Medina
- Menard
- Midland
- Milam
- Mills
- Mitchell
- Montague
- Montgomery
- Moore
- Morris
- Motley
- Nacogdoches
- Navarro
- Newton
- Nolan
- Nueces
- Ochiltree
- Oldham
- Orange
- Palo Pinto
- Panola
- Parker
- Parmer
- Pecos
- Potter
- Presidio
- Rains
- Randall
- Reagan
- Real
- Red River
- Reeves
- Refugio
- Roberts
- Robertson
- Rockwall
- Runnels
- Rusk
- Sabine
- San Augustine
- San Jacinto
- San Patricio
- San Saba
- Schleicher
- Scurry
- Shackelford
- Shelby
- Sherman
- Smith
- Somervell
- Starr
- Stephens
- Sterling
- Stonewall
- Sutton
- Swisher
- Tarrant
- Taylor
- Terrell
- Terry
- Throckmorton
- Titus
- Tom Green
- Travis
- Trinity
- Tyler
- Upshur
- Upton
- Uvalde
- Val Verde
- Van Zandt
- Victoria
- Walker
- Waller
- Ward
- Washington
- Webb
- Wharton
- Wheeler
- Wichita
- Wilbarger
- Willacy
- Williamson
- Wilson
- Winkler
- Wise
- Wood
- Yoakum
- Young
- Zapata
- Zavala