Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Union County, Louisiana, had a population of 21,107. The median age was approximately 41 years, with 49.3% male and 50.7% female. Racially, the population was 66% White, 30% Black or African American, 1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Asian, and about 2.7% identified as two or more races or other. The county's demographic profile reflects a predominantly White and Black community with a modest aging population.

County Crime & Safety

Union County, LA, maintains a relatively lower crime rate compared to state averages, with a violent crime rate of approximately 3.6 incidents per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of about 13.2 per 1,000, according to recent FBI data. Local law enforcement emphasizes community policing, and crime reporting is accessible online or via Union Parish Sheriff's Office. Overall, the area is considered moderately safe, though residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.

Elections

Union County, LA—serving around 16,000 registered voters—administers federal, state, and local elections, with turnout rates ranging from 35% in off-years to nearly 60% in presidential races. Voters, registered as Democrat (39%), Republican (43%), or Other (18%), cast ballots at 25 polling locations managed by the Union Parish Clerk of Court. Recent election issues involve infrastructure funding and school board representation. Official results, certified within 3 days, are publicly available. The Union Parish Registrar of Voters oversees registration and ensures compliance with Louisiana Secretary of State regulations.

Education, Employment and Housing

Union County, LA, hosts approximately 17 public schools, including 2 high schools, serving around 2,600 students. The county’s high school graduation rate is about 86%, while roughly 13% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Standardized test scores show proficiency rates averaging 65% in math and 68% in reading. School safety reports indicate below-average incident rates. Educational programs include dual enrollment, vocational training, and adult literacy classes, reflecting a commitment to diverse learning pathways.

As of 2022, Union County, LA, had an employment rate of approximately 52%, with about 7,400 residents in the labor force. Major industries include health care and social assistance (16%), manufacturing (13%), and retail trade (11%). Leading occupations are production, office and administrative support, and management. Nearly 85% of employed residents commute by car, with an average commute time of 27 minutes. Most workers are employed within Union Parish, but around 20% commute to nearby parishes, such as Ouachita and Lincoln.

Union County, Louisiana—often referred to as Union Parish—has a homeownership rate of around 75%, with a median home value of approximately $110,000. Rental options make up about 25% of housing, with median rents near $650 monthly. The area mainly features single-family homes, with some mobile homes and small multi-family units. Popular neighborhoods include Farmerville and Marion. Housing values have seen modest growth of roughly 4% annually over recent years. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging $250–$400 per year for the typical homeowner, contributing to the area’s affordability.