Education, Employment and Housing

Jackson County, IN, has 15 public schools, including 2 high schools and several elementary and middle schools. The high school graduation rate is approximately 89%, while about 15% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average standardized test scores are near the state average. School safety measures are in place, with over 90% of students reporting feeling safe. Educational programs include career and technical education, AP courses, and adult education, serving more than 200 adult learners annually.

As of 2023, Jackson County, IN, has an employment rate of approximately 62%. The leading industries are manufacturing (27.5%), health care and social assistance (13%), and retail trade (11%). Most residents work in production (19%), office/administrative support (13%), and transportation/material moving (11%). The average commute time is about 22 minutes, with over 76% driving alone. While 77% of employed residents work within the county, others commute to Bartholomew, Jennings, and Scott counties for work.

Jackson County, IN, has a homeownership rate of around 72% and a median home value near $172,000 as of 2023, with median monthly rents averaging $855. The housing market has seen value increases of approximately 8% year-over-year. Most homes are single-family houses, especially in neighborhoods like Seymour and Brownstown. Property taxes average 0.79% of assessed value. Rental housing options are available but limited compared to owner-occupied units. Newer developments and established neighborhoods offer a range of affordable choices, contributing to steady local market growth and diverse housing types.

Demographics

As of 2022, Jackson County, Indiana, has a population of approximately 46,600. The median age is around 39 years, with 51% male and 49% female residents. Racially, the county is predominantly White (90%), with Hispanic or Latino (6%), Asian (1.5%), Black or African American (1%), and those identifying as two or more races making up the remainder. The population continues modest annual growth, reflecting regional trends.

Elections

Jackson County, IN, has around 27,500 registered voters as of 2024. Residents participate in federal, state, and local elections, including primaries and general elections. In the 2022 general election, turnout was approximately 48%. Major polling locations include Seymour Middle School and Brownstown Town Hall, with a total of 15 precincts. Common ballot issues include school funding and road maintenance. The Jackson County Clerk’s Office oversees election administration. The county leans Republican, with GOP candidates securing about 68% of the vote in recent contests; Democrats garnering around 30%. Registration is available online, by mail, or in-person.

County Crime & Safety

Jackson County, IN, reported a crime rate of approximately 2,450 incidents per 100,000 residents in 2023, slightly below the national average. Property crimes, such as burglary and theft, comprised about 78% of reported cases, while violent crimes made up 22%. Law enforcement documented 220 violent crimes, including 3 homicides and 17 aggravated assaults. The Sheriff's Office regularly updates crime statistics for public awareness. Enhanced neighborhood watch programs and increased patrols contributed to a 7% decrease in overall crime compared to 2022.