Gilmer County

As of the latest U.S. Census data, Gilmer County, GA, has a population of approximately 31,000. The racial composition is about 91% White, 2% African American, 1% Asian, and 6% Hispanic or Latino. The median household income is around $46,000, with approximately 15% living below the poverty line. The county covers 431 square miles and has a population density of 72 people per square mile. Families constitute 75% of households, and the median age is 45 years.

As of the latest data, Gilmer County, GA, has a median home value of approximately $250,000. The median rent is around $900 per month. The county has seen a home appreciation rate of about 10% over the past year. The average household income is roughly $45,000, and the homeownership rate is around 75%. The housing market in Gilmer County is considered relatively affordable compared to the national average.

As of the latest updates in 2023, Gilmer County, GA, typically holds elections for various local, state, and federal offices. In recent elections:

1. County Commissioners: Key local positions with candidates often including representatives from both the Republican and Democratic parties.

2. Board of Education: Elects members to oversee the local school system.

3. State Representatives: Gilmer County falls within Georgia's 7th and 9th Congressional districts.

Numerical data such as voter turnout, specific election results, and candidate details can vary; check the Gilmer County Board of Elections & Registration for the most current and detailed information. Notable recent candidates include Republicans John G. Watkins and Brad Simmons for County Commissioner, reflecting the county’s strong Republican lean.

As of the latest data, Gilmer County, GA, exhibits educational attainment levels that are slightly lower than both state and national averages. Approximately 77.5% of residents over 25 years old have obtained a high school diploma or higher, compared to the national average of around 88%. Only about 16% of the county's population holds a bachelor's degree or higher, which is below Georgia's state average of 32.2% and the national average of 34%. Educational initiatives and resources in the county aim to improve these figures over time, addressing the gap through local programs and partnerships.

As of the most recent data, Gilmer County, GA, exhibits an unemployment rate of about 3.2%, slightly below the national average of around 3.5% and the state average of approximately 3.3%. The total labor force is roughly 15,000 individuals.

Top industries in Gilmer County include manufacturing, which employs about 28% of the workforce, substantially higher than the national average of around 8.5%. Agriculture and forestry are also significant, involving about 12% of workers, compared to the national average of 1.3%. Additionally, retail trade (11%), and educational services, health care, and social assistance (10%) play vital roles.

These figures highlight a stronger emphasis on manufacturing and agriculture in Gilmer County compared to broader state and national trends, where sectors like professional services and technology tend to dominate.

As of the latest available data, the median household income in Gilmer County, GA is approximately $49,000. In comparison, the median household income for the entire state of Georgia is around $61,000, and the national median stands at about $68,700. This shows that Gilmer County's median income is below both the state and national averages.

Income Comparison (Median Household Income - USD)

Gilmer County's lower income levels relative to state and national figures may reflect its rural character and economic base, which is predominantly driven by agriculture and small local businesses compared to urban areas.

As of the latest report, Gilmer County, GA, has a crime rate of 16.20 per 1,000 residents annually, which is lower compared to the national average. Below is a breakdown of crime types per 1,000 residents:

Gilmer County's crime rate is relatively lower than both the state and national averages, making it a relatively safer place to live.