Elections

Williamsburg (City), VA, had 10,300 registered voters in 2023. Voters participate in general, primary, and special elections, with a turnout of 54% in the 2020 general election. Polls are located at Williamsburg Community Building and Quarterpath Recreation Center. Local issues include affordable housing and tourism-driven development. The Williamsburg City Electoral Board oversees elections; the Registrar’s Office manages registration. Democrats hold an advantage in presidential races, with Biden receiving 66% in 2020. City Council elections are nonpartisan, often focusing on local concerns rather than party affiliation. Both major parties, Democratic and Republican, are active in voter outreach.

Education, Employment and Housing

Williamsburg City County, VA, served mainly by Williamsburg-James City County Public Schools, features 3 high schools and offers access to several higher education institutions, including The College of William & Mary. The public school graduation rate averages around 90%, and 54% of adults hold at least a bachelor’s degree. School safety ratings are above the state average, with robust anti-bullying measures. Educational programs include AP, IB, and dual enrollment. There are 15 public schools, with an average GreatSchools rating of 7/10. Adult education is supported through R.A. Gray Adult Education Center and local community colleges.

As of 2022, Williamsburg City County, VA, has an employment rate of approximately 56.7%. Leading industries include Educational Services (37.5%), Arts, Entertainment, and Accommodation (25.2%), and Retail Trade (11.6%). The most common occupations are in Education, Training, and Library (21.4%), Food Preparation and Serving (11.5%), and Sales (10.4%). About 68% of residents both live and work within the county, while 32% commute, primarily to nearby James City County and Newport News. The mean commute time is around 19.5 minutes.

Williamsburg City County, VA, features a homeownership rate of approximately 45%, with median home values around $350,000 and median rents near $1,500 per month. Property values have risen about 6% year-over-year as of early 2024. Housing options include historic colonial homes, modern townhouses, and student apartments, especially near William & Mary. Popular neighborhoods like Kingsmill and Governors Land attract families and retirees. Property tax rates are about $0.64 per $100 assessed value, offering moderate taxes compared to surrounding areas. The market remains competitively balanced between owners and renters.

Demographics

As of 2022, Williamsburg City County, VA, had an estimated population of about 15,590. The median age is 24.4, reflecting a large student population. Approximately 53% are female and 47% male. Racially, the population is 74.5% White, 13.4% Black or African American, 6.6% Asian, and 5.5% Hispanic or Latino. This diversity, along with a youthful demographic, is strongly influenced by the presence of the College of William & Mary.

County Crime & Safety

Williamsburg City County, VA, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. According to recent FBI data, the violent crime rate is approximately 1.5 incidents per 1,000 residents, while the property crime rate stands at around 13.2 per 1,000. Local police emphasize community involvement and prompt crime reporting, resulting in high clearance rates. Williamsburg’s proactive safety initiatives and transparent reporting contribute to its reputation as a secure area for residents, students, and tourists alike.