Orleans County Public RecordsVermont

As of the 2020 Census, Orleans County, VT had a population of 27,393. The median age was 47.2 years, indicating an older population. About 50.1% were female and 49.9% male. The county is predominantly White (93.9%), with small percentages of Two or More Races (3%), Hispanic or Latino (1.1%), and Black or African American (0.8%). Asian, Native American, and Pacific Islander groups each make up less than 1% of the population.

Orleans County, VT, had 17,233 registered voters in the 2022 general election. Voting includes local, state, and federal elections, with turnout often exceeding 60%. Republicans and Democrats dominate, though independents are significant—2020 results saw Trump (R) at 56% and Biden (D) at 40%. Polling locations span 22 towns, including Newport and Derby. Key issues include property taxes, schooling, and healthcare. The Orleans County Clerk administers elections under Vermont’s open primary system. Recent local initiatives focus on broadband expansion and opioid prevention.

Orleans County, VT has 7 public high schools, with a combined graduation rate of approximately 85%. About 20% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The county features additional adult education programs, including North Country Career Center. Average school proficiency scores are 46% in math and 55% in reading. School safety initiatives, such as the School Resource Officer program, are active. Educational offerings also include dual enrollment courses and vocational training, enhancing career readiness.

As of early 2024, Orleans County, VT, has an employment rate of approximately 57%. Major industries include healthcare and social assistance (14%), manufacturing (12%), retail trade (11%), and educational services (9%). About 24% of workers hold office/administrative or sales jobs, while production and transportation roles comprise 18%. Roughly 75% of residents commute by car, with an average commute time of 22 minutes; 76% work within Orleans County, while others commute to neighboring Caledonia or Lamoille counties.

Orleans County, VT has a homeownership rate around 77%, with rentals comprising about 23% of housing units. The median home value is approximately $190,000, reflecting a 6% annual increase. The county offers a mix of single-family homes, mobile homes, and seasonal properties. Neighborhoods such as Newport and Derby offer more amenities, while rural areas provide greater space and privacy. Average monthly rents range from $900 to $1,200. Property taxes average 2.0% of assessed value, translating to about $3,800 annually on a median-priced home.

Orleans County, VT, maintains relatively low crime rates compared to national averages. According to recent FBI data, the violent crime rate is about 1.8 per 1,000 residents, and property crime is around 9.2 per 1,000. Most incidents involve minor theft or vandalism. Local law enforcement actively encourages community involvement and crime reporting; in 2023, over 90% of reported crimes were successfully closed or resolved. Despite occasional incidents, Orleans County remains one of the safer regions in Vermont, with consistent efforts to improve public safety and maintain transparent crime statistics.