Jay County Public RecordsIndiana

As of the 2020 Census, Jay County, Indiana, had a population of 20,478. The median age was 41 years, with 50.5% female and 49.5% male. The racial makeup was primarily White (95.3%), followed by Hispanic or Latino (2.6%), two or more races (1.7%), African American (0.5%), and others. The county has a balanced age distribution, with about 22.5% under 18 and 19.8% aged 65 or older, reflecting a largely stable, aging population.

Jay County, IN, maintains a moderate crime rate, with the violent crime rate at 2.6 per 1,000 residents, below the national average of 4.0. Property crime occurs at approximately 10.2 per 1,000 residents. The Jay County Sheriff’s Office and local police actively report and investigate incidents, promoting community safety. Recent statistics indicate a steady or slight decline in reported crimes over the past five years, reflecting effective law enforcement efforts and strong community engagement.

Jay County, IN, had 16,251 registered voters for the 2020 general election, with turnout at 62%. Elections include federal, state, local, and school board races. In 2022, Republicans dominated, with GOP candidates winning over 70% in county-level races. There are 12 polling locations across the county. Notable issues include local school funding and agricultural regulation. The Jay County Election Board oversees administration, ensuring compliance and security. The county leans heavily Republican, with about 75% of voters registered as GOP, 20% Democrat, and 5% Independent/Other, reflecting strong party alignment in local results.

Jay County, IN is served primarily by Jay School Corporation, with one public high school—Jay County High School—and several elementary and middle schools. The district enrolls around 3,000 students. Approximately 15% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, below the national average. Jay County High reported a graduation rate of 90% (2022), with average SAT scores near 980. The schools offer vocational, dual-credit, and Advanced Placement programs. School safety is prioritized, with security measures and a school resource officer. Adult education is available through the Jay County Adult Learning Center, supporting GED completion and workforce skills.

As of 2023, Jay County, IN, has an employment rate of approximately 59.7%. Major industries include manufacturing (26%), health care and social assistance (14%), and retail trade (11%). The predominant occupation types are production (17%), office/administrative support (12%), and sales (10%). About 82% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 23 minutes; over 40% work outside the county, mainly traveling to Adams and Delaware Counties for employment.

Jay County, IN, has a homeownership rate of about 74% and a median home value around $108,000 as of 2023. The average monthly rent is approximately $700. The housing stock primarily features single-family homes, with some duplexes and apartments mostly in Portland and Dunkirk neighborhoods. Property values have seen modest growth, increasing about 4% year-over-year. The county’s property tax rate averages 0.69% of assessed home value. Communities vary from rural areas to small-town centers, providing affordable options for both buyers and renters.