County Crime & Safety

Martin County, FL, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to the national average. In 2023, the overall crime rate was approximately 18.5 per 1,000 residents, with violent crimes accounting for 1.8 per 1,000 and property crimes at 16.7 per 1,000. The Martin County Sheriff's Office regularly reports data and encourages community engagement for crime prevention. With consistent law enforcement visibility and community programs, Martin County is often recognized as one of the safer counties in Florida.

Elections

Martin County, FL had 124,893 registered voters as of 2024, with Republicans comprising 49%, Democrats 25%, and NPAs/others 26%. Voters participate in primary, general, and local elections, with turnout in the 2022 general election at 67%. Key issues include growth management and water quality. The Martin County Supervisor of Elections manages 22 polling locations. In 2020, the county favored Republicans by 61% to Democrats’ 38% in the presidential race. The area is administered nonpartisanly, but local politics are dominated by the Republican Party.

Demographics

As of 2023, Martin County, FL has a population of approximately 165,000. The median age is about 53, reflecting a large retiree community. Females make up 51% of residents, while males comprise 49%. The racial and ethnic makeup is 82% White (non-Hispanic), 8% Hispanic or Latino, 6% Black or African American, and 4% comprising other races or multiracial individuals.

Education, Employment and Housing

Martin County, FL hosts 12 public high schools and several private institutions, with a high school graduation rate of about 89%. Around 32% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average public school rating is 8/10, and Martin County School District consistently ranks above state averages in standardized test scores. Comprehensive adult education and career training programs are offered through the Martin County Adult Education Center. The district maintains a low incident rate, prioritizing safety with a student-to-resource-officer ratio of 1:1,800, and provides diverse programs, including STEM, arts, and Advanced Placement courses.

As of 2023, Martin County, FL, has an employment rate of approximately 56%. Major industries include healthcare and social assistance (17%), retail trade (14%), and construction (12%). The leading occupation types are management, business, science, and arts (37%), followed by sales and office occupations (25%). About 83% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 25 minutes. Most residents work within Martin County, but around 28% commute to neighboring counties such as Palm Beach or St. Lucie for employment.

Martin County, FL, features a 2023 median home value of about $420,000, with a homeownership rate near 78% and a median rent of $2,300 per month. The housing market is moderately competitive, with property values rising around 7% year-over-year. Housing types range from waterfront condos in Stuart to single-family homes in Palm City and gated communities in Hobe Sound. Popular neighborhoods include Sewall’s Point and Jensen Beach. Property tax rates average 1.0%, making the area attractive for homeowners seeking coastal living and favorable tax conditions.