Gilchrist County Public RecordsFlorida

Gilchrist County, FL, had 12,537 registered voters for the 2022 general election, with Republican registrants (around 8,400) outnumbering Democrats (approx. 2,500) and others. It holds federal, state, and local elections, with key polling locations like Gilchrist County Courthouse. In the 2020 presidential election, 80% voted Republican. The Supervisor of Elections administers elections, addressing issues like polling access and ballot security. Primary political parties are Republican and Democrat. Voter turnout often exceeds 70%, reflecting high civic participation.

As of 2023, Gilchrist County, FL has a population of approximately 18,300. The median age is about 42 years. Females comprise 49% and males 51% of the population. Racially, 87% identify as White, 7% Black or African American, 2% two or more races, and 3% Hispanic or Latino. The county remains predominantly rural with modest population growth in recent years.

Gilchrist County, FL has 8 public schools serving approximately 2,700 students, including two main high schools: Bell High School and Trenton High School. The high school graduation rate is around 86%. About 12% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average statewide school grades for Gilchrist schools hover around a “B.” The county emphasizes school safety, implementing security officers at campuses. Adult education is available via GED and vocational programs. Educational programs include Advanced Placement and career-technical certifications, supporting both college-bound and career-ready students.

Gilchrist County, FL, has an employment rate of approximately 53% (2022, ages 16+). Top employment sectors include Education & Health Services (23%), Retail Trade (12%), and Construction (11%). Major occupation types are Management, Business, Science, & Arts (27%), followed by Service (25%). The average commute time is about 33 minutes, with over 70% of residents commuting outside the county for work, primarily to Gainesville (Alachua County). The median household income is around $54,400.

Gilchrist County, FL, has a homeownership rate of about 81%, notably above the state average. Median home values are around $230,000, with average monthly rents near $1,200. The housing market showed steady appreciation over the last year, with home values increasing by roughly 5%. Most residences are single-family homes, though some mobile homes are present. Popular neighborhoods include Trenton and Bell. Property taxes are relatively low, with a median of approximately $1,200 annually per home. The area appeals to those seeking rural or small-town living close to larger urban centers like Gainesville.

Gilchrist County, FL, is known for its relatively low crime rates compared to state averages. According to recent FBI data, the property crime rate is around 1,000 per 100,000 residents, well below the Florida average of 2,200. Violent crime is also low, with rates under 200 per 100,000 people versus the state’s 370. The Gilchrist County Sheriff’s Office actively reports and addresses incidents, contributing to a consistent sense of safety in the community. Regular community policing efforts further help maintain these favorable statistics.