County Crime & Safety

Elbert County, GA, has a crime rate lower than the national average, with a violent crime rate of approximately 2.37 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 11.49 per 1,000, according to recent FBI data. The Sheriff's Office regularly reports incidents and works to improve community safety through local patrols and public engagement. While property crime is the most common, overall crime rates have remained relatively stable, and Elbert County is generally considered a safe area compared to the Georgia state average.

Elections

Elbert County, GA had 13,074 registered voters as of 2022. The county conducts elections for local, state, and federal offices, utilizing 7 polling locations, including the Elbert County Government Complex. In the 2020 presidential election, 71.5% voted Republican, 27.6% Democrat. Election administration is overseen by the Elbert County Board of Elections. Key issues include local economic development and rural broadband access. Both Democratic and Republican parties are active, with turnout averaging 62% in general elections. Voter registration can be done online or in-person at the registrar's office.

Demographics

Elbert County, GA, has a 2022 population of around 19,362. The median age is about 42.8 years, with 48.7% male and 51.3% female residents. The racial and ethnic composition is approximately 64% White, 29% Black or African American, 4% Hispanic or Latino, 1% Asian, and 2% reporting two or more races. The county’s population reflects modest diversity with a slight female majority and a median age above the national average.

Education, Employment and Housing

Elbert County, GA, serves around 3,700 students in 5 public schools, including Elbert County High School. The district’s graduation rate is approximately 85%. About 13% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, below the national average. School safety scores are in line with Georgia averages, with a focus on resource officers and security measures. Educational programs include Advanced Placement, CTAE pathways, and dual enrollment opportunities. Elbert County schools have an average rating of 5/10 on GreatSchools, reflecting steady academic progress and commitment to student achievement.

As of 2022, Elbert County, GA, had an employment rate of 51.5%, with 7,195 employed residents. The largest industries are Manufacturing (23.8%), Health Care & Social Assistance (13.2%), and Retail Trade (12.6%). Most residents work in Production (16.8%), Office & Administrative Support (10.7%), and Sales (10.3%) occupations. About 80.5% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 25 minutes. The majority (79%) work within Elbert County, while notable numbers commute to Athens-Clarke County and Hart County for employment.

Elbert County, GA has a homeownership rate of approximately 72%, with a median home value around $151,000 in 2023. Rental occupancy is about 28%, and median gross rent is $740 monthly. The local market has seen property values rise by about 7% over the past year. Housing options include single-family homes, mobile homes, and some small apartment complexes, primarily in neighborhoods like Elberton and Bowman. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging 0.77% of a home’s value, translating to roughly $1,160 annually for median-priced homes.