Washington County Public RecordsFlorida

As of 2023, Washington County, FL, has an estimated population of about 25,600. Approximately 75% are White, 16% Black or African American, 5% Hispanic or Latino, and 4% other races or multiracial. The median age is around 42 years, with 22% under 18 and 20% aged 65 or older. The gender distribution is nearly even, with about 51% male and 49% female.

Washington County, FL, experiences a moderate crime rate compared to state averages. According to recent statistics, the violent crime rate is approximately 3.5 incidents per 1,000 residents, while property crime stands at about 14.2 per 1,000 residents. In 2023, there were around 90 reported violent crimes and over 370 property crime incidents. The sheriff’s office actively encourages community reporting and neighborhood watch participation, contributing to a declining crime trend in recent years. Overall, safety initiatives continue to improve public awareness and emergency response in the region.

Washington County, FL has 9 public schools serving K–12, including 2 high schools. About 82% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 11% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety initiatives include security personnel and visitor management systems. Washington County schools score an average of 5/10 on GreatSchools. Adult education programs are offered through technical centers. Educational offerings include career and technical programs. The county focuses on small class sizes (average ratio 16:1) to enhance learning and support student achievement.

As of 2023, Washington County, FL, has an employment rate of approximately 51%. Key industries include health care (18%), retail trade (16%), and education (12%). The largest occupational groups are office/administrative support (13%) and sales (11%). About 78% of workers commute by car, with only 1% using public transit. The average commute time is 27 minutes, and nearly 44% work outside the county, mainly traveling to neighboring Bay and Jackson counties for employment.

Washington County, FL, has a homeownership rate of around 74%, with a median home value of approximately $170,000 in 2023. About 26% of residents rent, with median monthly rents near $840. The housing market has seen steady growth, with property values rising roughly 9% over the past year. Single-family homes dominate, alongside some mobile homes and small apartment complexes. Key neighborhoods include Chipley, Vernon, and Ebro. The county’s property tax rate averages 0.68%, with an average annual property tax bill of about $1,150.

Washington County, FL has about 15,500 registered voters as of 2024, with Republicans making up roughly 60%, Democrats 30%, and others 10%. The Supervisor of Elections manages local, state, and federal elections, including primaries and general elections. Key polling locations include Chipley and Vernon. In the 2022 general election, Republican candidates won most local and state races by margins of 2:1. Key issues are economic development and infrastructure. Election administration emphasizes security and accessibility, offering early voting and mail ballots. Voter turnout averaged 54% in recent major elections.