Demographics

As of the 2020 census, Brown County, Ohio, had a population of approximately 43,676. The median age is 41.9 years, with about 49.4% male and 50.6% female residents. The county is predominantly White (95.5%), with smaller proportions of Black or African American (1.1%), two or more races (2.7%), and Hispanic or Latino (0.9%). Other racial and ethnic groups each comprise less than 1% of the population.

County Crime & Safety

Brown County, OH, has a crime rate lower than the national average, with violent crime at approximately 1.7 incidents per 1,000 residents and property crime at around 12.3 per 1,000 residents in recent years. The sheriff’s office actively reports incidents and encourages community involvement in crime prevention. Recent statistics indicate a steady or slightly declining trend in overall crime, making Brown County relatively safe compared to urban counties in Ohio.

Elections

Brown County, OH, has around 31,000 residents with approximately 23,500 registered voters as of 2024. The Board of Elections administers primaries, general, and special elections at 26 polling locations. In the 2020 presidential election, over 72% of votes went to the Republican Party, 26% to Democrats, and turnout exceeded 75%. Voters weigh local issues like levies and referendums. The Board, composed of bipartisan members, manages election logistics and candidate filings. Brown County’s political landscape is predominantly Republican, with both major parties actively participating in electoral processes and voter engagement.

Education, Employment and Housing

Brown County, OH hosts 15 public schools, including 3 high schools, with a graduation rate of around 93%. Approximately 13% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average state test scores for schools in the county generally fall near state averages. School safety is prioritized, with reported incidents below the national average. The county offers vocational, AP, and dual enrollment programs to enhance student opportunities, and adult education is available through regional initiatives and community colleges.

As of 2022, Brown County, OH had an employment rate of approximately 55%, with 17,500 employed residents. Major industries include manufacturing (17%), health care & social assistance (15%), and retail trade (11%). Most common occupations are production (14%), sales, and office roles (22%). The average commute time is around 33 minutes, with over 70% of workers commuting outside the county, mainly to Clermont and Hamilton counties. Only about 2% use public transportation, while over 85% commute by car, reflecting the county’s rural character.

Brown County, OH, has a homeownership rate of approximately 74%, with a median home value of $180,000 in 2023. Rental rates average $850 per month. The market has seen a 6% annual increase in property values. Housing types include single-family homes, farmhouses, and some apartments, mainly in Georgetown and Mt. Orab neighborhoods. Property taxes average 1.25% of assessed value, equating to about $2,250 annually for a median-priced home. The county offers a blend of rural and small-town living, making it attractive for families and retirees seeking affordability and space.