Franklin County Public RecordsVirginia

Franklin County, VA, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported approximately 640 total crimes, with a crime rate of 14.2 per 1,000 residents. Violent crime remains rare, comprising about 8% of cases—primarily assaults—while property crimes like burglary and larceny are more frequent. The sheriff’s office actively reports incidents, with clearance rates exceeding 35%. Overall, residents experience a generally safe environment, though continued vigilance is encouraged.

Franklin County, VA, had 37,814 registered voters as of 2023. Voters participate in federal, state, and local elections, including Board of Supervisors and School Board races. In the 2022 general election, turnout was 48%. Polling occurs at 21 precincts. The county leans Republican; in the 2020 presidential election, Donald Trump received 72% of the vote. Issues like school funding and rural broadband are prominent. The Franklin County Registrar administers elections, while the county’s Democratic and Republican parties each maintain active local committees. Voter registration closes 22 days before each election.

Franklin County, VA hosts 20 public schools, including Franklin County High School, serving around 7,000 students. The high school graduation rate is approximately 89%, while 17% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety initiatives include resource officers and security upgrades, contributing to above-average safety scores. Advanced educational programs such as Advanced Placement (AP) and dual enrollment are offered. The GreatSchools average rating for local schools is 5/10. Adult education is available through the Franklin Center, supporting workforce and GED programs for community members.

As of 2022, Franklin County, VA, had an employment rate of approximately 56.5%. Major employment sectors include health care & social assistance (16.7%), manufacturing (13.5%), and retail trade (11.2%). The majority of the workforce is employed in management, business, science, and arts occupations (30.1%), followed by sales and office occupations (21%). About 85% of workers commute outside the county, with Roanoke and Rocky Mount being major employment destinations; the average commute time is about 28.7 minutes.

Franklin County, VA, features a homeownership rate of approximately 78%, with median home values around $230,000 as of 2023 and typical monthly rents near $1,000. The housing market trends show modest annual value appreciation of roughly 4%. Housing types range from single-family homes to lakefront properties near Smith Mountain Lake and rural estates. Notable neighborhoods include Westlake, Ferrum, and the Town of Rocky Mount. Property taxes remain low, with an average effective tax rate of about 0.55%, making the area attractive for buyers seeking affordability in a scenic, semi-rural setting.

As of the 2020 Census, Franklin County, VA, had a population of approximately 54,477. The median age was 47 years, reflecting an older population. About 50.1% were female and 49.9% male. Racially, the county was 86.3% White, 9.2% Black or African American, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.6% Asian, and 2.7% multiracial or other races. The population under 18 made up around 19%, and those 65 and older comprised about 22%.