Demographics

As of 2023, Hamilton County, FL, has a population of approximately 14,000. The median age is about 43 years, with 21% under 18 and 20% aged 65 or older. The population is 46% male and 54% female. Racially, the county is 56% White, 35% Black or African American, and 9% Hispanic or Latino. Other races, including Asian and multiracial individuals, comprise less than 2%.

Elections

Hamilton County, FL, had 9,153 registered voters as of 2024. The county hosts primary, general, and municipal elections, with polling locations in Jasper, Jennings, and White Springs. In the 2020 general election, turnout was 73%. The county leans Republican (over 50% registered), followed by Democrats (about 40%), and minor/no party (10%). Recent issues include local school funding and infrastructure. Election administration is managed by the Hamilton County Supervisor of Elections, ensuring compliance and accessibility. Election results and polling sites are available at votehamiltonfl.gov.

Education, Employment and Housing

Hamilton County, FL, has 6 public schools, including Hamilton County High School. The high school graduation rate is around 72%, and about 9% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Schools typically score below the state average on standardized tests. Several schools offer vocational and adult education programs. School safety initiatives are in place and include resource officers. Despite challenges, efforts continue to improve academic outcomes and expand educational programs.

As of 2023, Hamilton County, FL, has an employment rate of approximately 44.5%. The largest employment sectors are Health Care & Social Assistance (20.6%), Public Administration (13.2%), and Retail Trade (12.6%). Major occupations include Office & Administrative Support (12.9%), Management (10.7%), and Sales (9.4%). About 81% of workers commute by car, with a mean travel time of 25 minutes, and most work within Florida; the top employment locations are Jasper and Jennings within the county.

Hamilton County, FL, features a homeownership rate of about 72%, with median home values around $130,000 as of 2023. Median rent is approximately $850 per month. Housing primarily consists of single-family homes, with some mobile homes and rentals. Popular neighborhoods include Jasper, Jennings, and White Springs. The real estate market remains stable, with modest value increases of 2–3% annually. Property taxes average 1.01% of assessed value. The overall affordability and rural atmosphere draw residents seeking quiet living within north Florida’s small-town communities.

County Crime & Safety

Hamilton County, FL, reports a crime rate lower than the national average, with recent statistics indicating approximately 1,200 crimes per 100,000 residents annually. Violent crime rates are notably low, with only about 30 offenses per 100,000 people, while property crimes comprise the majority of incidents. The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office actively publishes crime data, fostering transparency and community engagement. Overall, the area ranks among Florida’s safer counties, with consistent law enforcement presence and proactive reporting contributing to its favorable safety record.