De Soto County Public RecordsFlorida

De Soto County, FL, has 11 public schools serving around 4,600 students, including DeSoto County High School. About 73% of residents hold a high school diploma, while just 12% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. School grades average a C rating. DeSoto offers adult education and vocational programs through the DeSoto County Adult Education Center. School safety initiatives include resource officers in all schools. The district provides programs for career and technical education, but AP and advanced course offerings are limited compared to state averages.

As of 2023, De Soto County, FL, had an employment rate of approximately 54%. Major industries include agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting (about 26%), healthcare and social assistance (13%), and retail trade (11%). The top occupation types are office and administrative support (17%) and management occupations (11%). Around 80% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 27 minutes. Most residents (about 67%) work within the county, while others commute to neighboring Charlotte and Sarasota counties for employment.

De Soto County, FL has a homeownership rate of about 70%, with median home values around $220,000 as of 2023. The average monthly rent for a two-bedroom is approximately $1,200. The housing market has seen a 6% increase in property values over the past year. Most homes are single-family, with some mobile homes and small apartment complexes, especially in Arcadia. Popular neighborhoods include Arcadia and Nocatee. Property tax rates average 1.1% of assessed value, resulting in an annual tax bill of roughly $2,400 for a median-priced home.

As of 2024, De Soto County, FL, has about 18,000 registered voters: 45% Democrat, 34% Republican, and 21% No Party Affiliation/Other. Elections include federal, state, and local offices, with recent turnouts averaging 64%. In the 2022 general election, Republicans led by a margin of 7%. The Supervisor of Elections administers polling at 8 precincts, with main locations in Arcadia. Election issues focus on agriculture, water management, and economic development. Both major parties campaign actively, with vote-by-mail and early voting options available to all residents.

De Soto County, FL, reports a crime rate lower than the national average, with a total crime rate of 18.2 per 1,000 residents. Violent crimes account for about 3.2 per 1,000, significantly below the state average. Property crime, including burglary and theft, stands at 15 per 1,000 residents. Sheriff’s Office crime reporting indicates consistent year-to-year declines, aided by community outreach and law enforcement initiatives. While generally considered safe, residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity, contributing to a collaborative approach in maintaining public safety.

As of 2023, DeSoto County, FL, has an estimated population of 34,000. The median age is about 41 years. Females account for 48%, and males 52% of residents. Racially, approximately 61% are White (non-Hispanic), 9% Black or African American, and 1% Asian, while 29% identify as Hispanic or Latino. The county exhibits a diverse, multigenerational composition.