County Crime & Safety

Ripley County, IN, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. According to recent statistics, the county reported a violent crime rate of approximately 8.6 per 10,000 residents and a property crime rate of 35 per 10,000 in 2022. Most incidents involve theft or burglary, with few violent offenses. The Ripley County Sheriff’s Office actively reports crime data, emphasizing community safety initiatives. Public engagement and local law enforcement efforts contribute to the overall safety, making crime in Ripley County lower than many surrounding areas in Indiana.

Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Ripley County, Indiana, had a population of 28,995. The median age is 41.6 years, with 22.5% under 18 and 18.5% aged 65 and over. Gender distribution is nearly equal: 49.8% male and 50.2% female. The county is predominantly White (96.7%), with smaller populations of Hispanic or Latino (1.3%), two or more races (1.7%), African American (0.3%), and Asian (0.2%).

Education, Employment and Housing

Ripley County, IN, has five public high schools, including Batesville High School and South Ripley High School, with an average high school graduation rate of 92%. Approximately 19% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Public school safety ratings are above the state average, with minimal incidents reported. The county offers diverse educational programs, including dual-credit and vocational courses, across its ten K-12 schools. Elementary and secondary schools score an average of 6/10 on GreatSchools. Adult education options include Ivy Tech Community College’s nearby campus and local vocational training centers.

As of 2023, Ripley County, IN, has an employment rate of approximately 61.2%. Major industries include manufacturing (30.5%), healthcare and social assistance (13.4%), and retail trade (10.2%). Leading occupations are production (19.8%), office/administrative support (11.6%), and management (8.7%). About 81% of employed residents commute to work by car, with an average commute time of 24.7 minutes. Significant employment locations include Batesville and Versailles, with many residents also commuting to neighboring counties such as Dearborn and Franklin for work opportunities.

Ripley County, IN, has a homeownership rate of about 76%, above the national average, with a median home value around $196,000 in 2023. Median gross rent is approximately $870 monthly. Predominant housing types are single-family homes, with sparse multifamily developments, especially in towns like Batesville and Versailles. Neighborhoods are largely rural or small-town, offering spacious lots. Property tax rates average 0.81% of assessed value—roughly $1,588 annually on a median-priced home. Recent years have seen moderate market growth (3-5% annually), driven by affordability compared to larger metro areas.

Elections

Ripley County, IN, had approximately 21,000 registered voters in the 2020 general election. The county holds primary, general, and special elections, managed by the Ripley County Clerk’s Office. In the 2020 presidential race, about 75% of votes went to Republican candidates. There are 16 polling locations across the county’s 11 townships. Common issues include rural broadband and infrastructure. The local election board oversees administration, and both Democratic and Republican parties are active, but Republicans typically dominate, as shown in recent elections with margins over 60%. Early voting and absentee options are also available.