County Crime & Safety

Shenandoah County, VA, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. In 2022, the county reported a total crime rate of 1,163 incidents per 100,000 residents, with 78 violent crimes and 1,085 property crimes. The local sheriff’s department encourages community-based reporting, resulting in a 95% clearance rate for violent offenses. Overall crime has declined by 6% since 2020, reflecting effective law enforcement efforts and strong community engagement in public safety programs.

Education, Employment and Housing

Shenandoah County, VA has 11 public schools, including 3 high schools. About 89% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 19% have a bachelor's degree or higher. Average school safety ratings score 7/10, with an emphasis on secure campuses. The county offers career and technical education programs and adult education classes. Standardized test scores are close to the Virginia state average, with a 90% graduation rate. Innovative STEM and vocational programs support diverse student pathways.

As of 2023, Shenandoah County, VA, has an employment rate of approximately 60.5% among residents aged 16 and older. Major industries include manufacturing (17%), health care and social assistance (14%), and retail trade (13%). The most common occupations are production (12%), office and administrative support (11%), and sales (10%). About 77% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 28 minutes. While most residents work within the county, a significant portion commutes to nearby areas such as Harrisonburg and Winchester for employment opportunities.

Shenandoah County, VA, boasts a homeownership rate of about 77%, with a median home value around $270,000 (2024). Rental units comprise about 23% of housing, with median rents near $1,000/month. The county features a mix of single-family homes, farms, and some apartments, especially in towns like Woodstock and Strasburg. Property values have risen roughly 6% annually since 2021. Neighborhoods vary from rural to small-town environments. The real estate property tax rate is approximately $0.64 per $100 assessed value, making taxes on a $270,000 home about $1,728 per year.

Elections

Shenandoah County, VA, had 30,122 registered voters as of 2023. The county conducts general, primary, and special elections, with 19 polling locations. In the 2020 presidential election, 68% voted Republican and 30% Democrat. Key issues include education funding and land use. The Shenandoah County Electoral Board administers elections, mainly split between Republican and Democrat party activity. Voter turnout in recent general elections exceeded 76%. The county’s elections are managed by the General Registrar, ensuring compliance with state and federal laws.

Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Shenandoah County, VA, had a population of 44,186. The median age is 45.2 years, with 20.1% under 18 and 21.2% aged 65 or older. The gender distribution is roughly balanced, with 50.2% female and 49.8% male. Racially, the county is 91.5% White, 1.9% Black or African American, 0.4% Asian, 1.3% Native American, 3.2% from other races, and 1.7% from two or more races; 7.0% of the population is Hispanic or Latino of any race.