Southampton County Public RecordsVirginia

As of the 2020 Census, Southampton County, VA had a population of 17,996. The median age was approximately 44 years. Females made up about 50.6% and males 49.4% of the population. Racially, the county was 60.6% White, 36.2% Black or African American, 1.1% two or more races, and 0.5% Asian; Hispanic or Latino residents comprised about 1.8%. The county maintains a predominantly adult population, with around 20% aged 65 and older.

Southampton County, VA, has around 12,000 registered voters as of 2024. Elections held include general, primary, and special elections, with presidential turnout reaching approximately 65%. Polling occurs at 13 precincts across the county; main locations include Boykins, Courtland, and Franklin. The Republican and Democratic parties dominate local contests, with recent results showing Republicans winning countywide by a 60-40 margin. Election issues often include rural broadband, school funding, and agriculture. Administration is handled by the County Registrar and Electoral Board, ensuring compliance with Virginia and federal voting laws.

Southampton County, VA is served by Southampton County Public Schools, encompassing about 5 schools, including Southampton High School. The high school graduation rate is approximately 90%, while around 19% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The schools maintain an average GreatSchools rating of 4/10. School safety is a priority, with dedicated resource officers and anti-bullying programs. Adult education offerings include GED classes and workforce training. Educational programs feature Career and Technical Education (CTE) and advanced placement (AP) options, providing diverse pathways for student achievement and lifelong learning.

As of 2022, Southampton County, VA had an employment rate of approximately 56%. The largest employment sectors were education and health services (22%), manufacturing (16%), retail trade (12%), and agriculture (10%). Occupations were primarily in management, office/administrative support, production, and sales. Around 83% of workers commuted by car, with an average commute time of 33 minutes. About 24% worked locally in Southampton, while many commuted to Suffolk, Franklin, and surrounding areas for employment.

Southampton County, VA, has a homeownership rate of around 74%, with median home values near $180,000 and median rents approximately $880 per month. The housing market is stable, with modest annual appreciation of 2–3%. Most homes are single-family houses, with some manufactured homes and limited apartment complexes. Notable neighborhoods include Courtland, Boykins, and Franklin (independent city nearby). The effective property tax rate is about 0.65%, with annual taxes on a median-priced home averaging $1,170. The county offers a rural lifestyle with a mix of historic and newer properties.

Southampton County, VA, reports a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. According to recent FBI data, the violent crime rate is approximately 120 incidents per 100,000 residents, significantly below the U.S. average of 380. Property crime rates stand at around 750 per 100,000, also lower than the national rate of 1,958. Law enforcement encourages community reporting through anonymous tips, enhancing safety. Overall, Southampton County is considered a safe area with proactive policing and strong community engagement contributing to its favorable crime statistics.