County Crime & Safety

Goochland County, VA, has a relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. According to recent data, the violent crime rate is approximately 1.1 incidents per 1,000 residents, and the property crime rate stands at around 8.6 per 1,000. Reporting and response by the Goochland County Sheriff's Office are proactive, and community involvement helps maintain safety. In 2022, only 11 violent crimes and 84 property crimes were reported, reflecting a decline over the past five years and contributing to Goochland’s reputation as a safe locality.

Education, Employment and Housing

Goochland County, VA, has 5 public schools, including 1 high school, with a graduation rate of 98% and average SAT scores around 1130. Approximately 40% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety is prioritized, with security protocols and resource officers present. Educational programs include Advanced Placement, career and technical education, and dual enrollment. Schools consistently score above state averages on standardized tests, and the county offers adult education through Goochland County Public Schools, focusing on GED and workforce skills.

As of 2023, Goochland County, VA has an unemployment rate of approximately 2.5%. Of the county’s 12,500 employed residents, top industries include healthcare & social assistance (16%), retail trade (11%), and educational services (10%). Major occupation types are management, business, and financial (34%), and sales & office (22%). Over 70% of workers commute outside the county, primarily to Richmond and Henrico County, with an average commute time of 28 minutes.

Goochland County, VA, features a 85% homeownership rate, with median home values around $480,000 and average rents at $1,500/month. The property market has seen a steady 7% annual increase in home values over the past three years. Housing primarily consists of single-family homes, with some townhouses and new developments in neighborhoods like Centerville and Manakin-Sabot. Property taxes are relatively low, with a 2023 rate of $0.53 per $100 assessed value. The area offers a rural-suburban mix, popular for families and professionals commuting to Richmond.

Elections

Goochland County, VA, had 19,564 registered voters as of 2023. Elections held include local, state, and federal contests, with the 2020 presidential election showing 65.7% turnout—Donald Trump receiving 61.9%, Joe Biden 36.4%. There are five polling locations, one per magisterial district. Key issues include school funding and land use. The Goochland County Electoral Board and Registrar’s office administer elections, ensuring compliance. The county leans Republican, with the GOP holding most local offices. Both Democrat and Republican parties are active, organizing voter outreach and candidate forums throughout the election cycles.

Demographics

As of 2022, Goochland County, VA has a population of approximately 25,000. The median age is 47.2 years, with about 51% female and 49% male residents. Racially, the county is 77% White, 15% Black or African American, 3% Hispanic or Latino, 2% Asian, and 3% identifying as two or more races. The population skews slightly older, with about 22% aged 65 or above and 18% under 18, reflecting a mature and moderately diverse community profile.