Essex County Public RecordsVirginia

As of 2023, Essex County, VA, has an estimated population of about 10,800. The median age is 46, with 20% under 18 and 22% over 65. Gender distribution is nearly equal, with 51% female and 49% male. Racially, the county is 58% White, 37% Black or African American, 3% Hispanic or Latino, and 2% identifying as other races or multiracial.

Essex County, VA, has three public schools, including Essex High School. About 84% of adults hold a high school diploma, while about 13% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. The district’s average graduation rate is approximately 88%. Academic performance scores typically rank below the state average, with Essex High School scoring around 4/10 on GreatSchools. School safety measures and programs like dual enrollment and career and technical education are in place to support students. Adult education opportunities are available through local community partnerships.

As of 2022, Essex County, VA, reported an employment rate of approximately 56.4%. The leading industries are Health Care & Social Assistance (20.2%), Educational Services (13.1%), and Retail Trade (11.7%). Major occupation types include Office & Administrative Support (13.6%) and Management (11.1%). Around 64% of residents commute outside the county for work, with an average commute time of 33 minutes. Key employment destinations include Richmond and Fredericksburg.

Essex County, VA, features a median home value of approximately $220,000, with about 66% homeownership and 34% rentals. Typical housing types include single-family homes and some apartments, primarily in neighborhoods such as Tappahannock. The area saw a modest property value increase of 3% in the past year. Average monthly rent is around $1,000 for a two-bedroom apartment. Essex County’s property tax rate is roughly $0.72 per $100 of assessed value, offering relatively affordable living compared to statewide averages.

Essex County, VA had 7,011 registered voters as of 2023. Elections include federal, state, and local offices, with recent turnout for the 2023 general election at 44%. Polling locations span 6 precincts, such as the Tappahannock Elem. School. Administration is overseen by a three-member Electoral Board and the General Registrar. The Democratic and Republican parties are primary contenders, with the 2023 state delegate vote split 52% Republican to 48% Democrat. Issues include school funding and rural broadband access. Voter registration is nonpartisan and available online, by mail, or in person.

Essex County, VA, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. In 2022, the county reported a violent crime rate of 83 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 620 per 100,000, significantly below the Virginia state averages. The Essex County Sheriff’s Office actively encourages community reporting and transparency in crime statistics. Annual reported incidents include approximately 2-4 violent crimes and 15-25 property crimes, indicating a generally safe environment for residents and visitors.