Tensas County Public RecordsLouisiana

As of 2020, Tensas Parish, Louisiana, had a population of approximately 4,147. The median age was about 42.3 years, reflecting an older demographic. Gender distribution was nearly even, with 51% female and 49% male. Racially, about 54% of residents were Black or African American, 43% White, and the remainder identified as other races or mixed. Hispanic or Latino ethnicity accounted for roughly 1-2% of the population.

Tensas Parish, Louisiana, has a small educational system, serving fewer than 600 students across 3 public schools, including Tensas High School. Just 7.8% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher (far below the national average of 32.1%), and about 75% have a high school diploma. GreatSchools ratings for Tensas schools average 2-3/10, reflecting struggles with test scores and resources. Programs for adult education and vocational training are limited. The district emphasizes school safety and improvement, but faces persistent funding and staffing challenges due to declining enrollment and rural location.

As of 2022, Tensas Parish, Louisiana, had an employment rate of 44.6% among those aged 16+, with a labor force participation rate of 47.5%. Agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting comprise the largest industry, employing around 31% of workers. About 19% work in educational, health, and social services. The most common occupations are in management, business, science, and arts (21%) and service roles (19%). Average commuting time is 23 minutes; approximately 81% of residents drive alone to work, with most employment located within the parish or neighboring Madison and Concordia parishes.

Tensas Parish, Louisiana, has a homeownership rate of about 65%, with median home values near $68,000. Rental units make up around 35% of housing, with median rent approximately $610 per month. The housing stock mainly comprises single-family homes, with some older properties and modest new builds. Property values have remained relatively stable over the past five years. Notable communities include St. Joseph and Newellton. Property tax rates are low, averaging 0.4% of assessed value, making Tensas Parish among the more affordable housing markets in the state.

Tensas Parish, Louisiana, had approximately 3,600 registered voters in 2023, with African Americans comprising about 81% of residents. Governed by the Tensas Parish Clerk of Court, local elections include parish officials, school board, and sheriff, alongside state and federal races. In the 2020 presidential election, Democratic candidates received about 72% of the vote, Republicans 27%. Polling locations include sites in St. Joseph and Waterproof. Key local issues are economic development and access to services. Major parties are Democratic and Republican, with Democrats historically dominant in parish-level offices. Voter registration and turnout in Tensas are among Louisiana’s lowest.

Tensas Parish, Louisiana, consistently reports one of the highest crime rates in the state relative to its small population of approximately 4,500. According to 2022 FBI data, the violent crime rate was about 820 per 100,000 residents—significantly above the national average of 380. Property crime is also elevated, with rates of nearly 2,400 per 100,000. Local law enforcement is active in reporting and responding, but resource limitations challenge rapid intervention. Residents are advised to take standard safety precautions, as clearance rates for violent crimes hover around 40%.