Bedford County Public RecordsVirginia

As of the 2020 Census, Bedford County, VA had a population of approximately 79,462. The median age was 46 years, highlighting an older demographic. About 50.5% of residents were female and 49.5% male. The racial composition was 87.6% White, 7.0% Black or African American, 1.3% Asian, 0.3% American Indian, and 2.5% Hispanic or Latino. The county remains predominantly White, with modest diversity from other groups.

Bedford County, VA has over 62,000 registered voters as of 2023. Elections include federal, state, and local offices, with recent turnout around 60% in general elections. Polling locations number 25 across the county, overseen by the Bedford County Electoral Board. Republicans dominate, securing 67% of votes in the 2022 congressional race. Major issues include school funding and infrastructure. Voter registration and administration are managed by the General Registrar, ensuring accessible elections for unaffiliated, Democratic, and Republican voters.

Bedford County, VA, features 21 public schools, including three high schools. About 90% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 27% possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. The district’s average graduation rate is 93%, with SAT scores near the state average of 1100. Bedford schools offer diverse educational programs such as STEM, AP courses, and career-technical education. School safety measures include SROs and secure entry systems. Adult education is supported through regional programs for GED and continuing education, enhancing educational attainment across the county.

Bedford County, VA, had an unemployment rate of approximately 2.5% as of early 2024. Major industries include healthcare/social assistance (16%), retail trade (11%), and manufacturing (10%). Most residents are employed in management, business, science, and arts occupations (37%), followed by sales and office roles (21%). About 84% of workers commute by car, with an average travel time of 29 minutes, primarily to Lynchburg and Roanoke. Around 70% of employed residents work outside the county, illustrating significant outbound commuting for employment.

Bedford County, VA, boasts a homeownership rate of approximately 82%, with median home values around $285,000 as of 2024. Rental units comprise about 18% of housing, with median rents near $1,150/month. The market has seen home prices rise by roughly 6% year-over-year. Housing types include single-family homes, townhouses, and some apartments, with popular neighborhoods like Forest, Goode, and Montvale. Property tax rates are relatively low, averaging $0.52 per $100 assessed value. The area offers a mix of rural and suburban living with easy access to Roanoke and Lynchburg.

Bedford County, VA, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. According to recent data, the total crime rate is approximately 13 crimes per 1,000 residents annually. Violent crime, including assault and robbery, stays low at about 1.3 per 1,000 residents, while property crime rates are around 11.7 per 1,000 people. The Sheriff’s Office actively encourages community reporting, contributing to effective law enforcement and public safety. Overall, Bedford County is considered safer than 65% of U.S. counties.