Elections

Gallia County, OH, had 20,044 registered voters as of November 2023. The Board of Elections oversees primary, general, and special elections, with polling places in 31 precincts, including locations like Gallipolis and Rio Grande. In the 2020 presidential election, 77.3% voted Republican and 21.6% Democrat. The county addresses ballot issues such as local levies and school bonds. Major parties are Republican and Democrat, with Libertarian and independent candidates occasionally present. Election administration is handled at 18 Locust St., Gallipolis, ensuring secure processes and accessible voting for all eligible residents.

Demographics

As of 2022, Gallia County, Ohio, has a population of approximately 29,160. The median age is 42.3 years, with 48.7% male and 51.3% female residents. The racial composition is predominantly White (94.3%), with Black or African American (2.2%), two or more races (2.5%), and small percentages of Asian and Hispanic/Latino (1.1%) populations. The county has a declining population trend and an aging demographic, reflecting statewide rural patterns.

County Crime & Safety

Gallia County, OH reports a crime rate below the state average. In 2023, the violent crime rate was 2.1 per 1,000 residents, while property crime stood at 11.6 per 1,000. The Sheriff's Office actively encourages community reporting, resulting in a 94% clearance rate for violent crimes. Annual crime reports indicate a 10% decrease in total incidents compared to 2022. Enhanced patrols and public safety programs have further reduced burglary and theft rates. Overall, Gallia County remains a relatively safe community with ongoing efforts to maintain low crime levels and quick response to reported incidents.

Education, Employment and Housing

Gallia County, OH, has 10 public schools, including Gallia Academy High School. About 87% of adults hold a high school diploma, while around 15% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average student-teacher ratio is 17:1. Schools offer career and technical education, with Gallia-Jackson-Vinton JVSD providing vocational programs. School safety incidents are below the state average. Test scores are typically near state averages, with 65% proficiency in reading. Adult education is supported through local programs, including GED preparation.

As of 2023, Gallia County, OH, had an employment rate of approximately 53%. Major employment sectors include healthcare and social assistance (22%), retail trade (14%), and educational services (12%). Top occupation types are office/administrative support (15%), sales (11%), and food preparation/serving (9%). Around 25% of residents work outside the county, primarily commuting to Jackson or Lawrence Counties, with an average commute time of 25 minutes. Local employers include Holzer Health System and Gallipolis City School District.

Gallia County, OH has a homeownership rate of about 71%, with median home values around $126,000. The median gross rent is approximately $690 monthly. Market trends indicate modest annual price growth, with most homes being single-family detached. Popular neighborhoods include Gallipolis and Rio Grande, offering both modern and older housing stock. Property taxes are below Ohio’s average, with most owners paying under $1,000 annually. The county’s housing market remains affordable, appealing to both buyers and renters seeking lower costs.