Franklin County Public RecordsMassachusetts

As of the 2020 Census, Franklin County, MA, had a population of approximately 71,029. The median age is about 46.5 years, reflecting an older population. Gender distribution is nearly even, with 50.6% female and 49.4% male. Racially, the county is predominantly White (89.9%), with smaller percentages of Hispanic or Latino (3.7%), Asian (1.2%), Black or African American (1.2%), and two or more races (5.6%).

Franklin County, MA, is considered one of the safer counties in the state, with a violent crime rate of around 2.3 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 9.8 per 1,000—both lower than state and national averages. Annual reports show approximately 180 violent crimes and 780 property crimes in recent years. The Franklin County Sheriff's Office and local police regularly publish crime statistics, and community reporting remains vital for maintaining safety and accountability.

Franklin County, MA, had about 46,000 residents in 2020, with over 32,000 registered voters as of 2022. Voters choose representatives in local, state, and federal elections, with recent turnout exceeding 65% in presidential years. Major parties include Democrats and Republicans, but over 55% are unaffiliated. Polling locations encompass town halls and schools across 26 towns. Elections are administered by municipal clerks, overseen by the county's central Board of Elections. Key issues include rural broadband, education, and climate resilience. In 2020, Joe Biden received 68% of the county’s presidential vote.

Franklin County, MA, has 11 public high schools and a total of 25 public schools, serving around 5,400 students. About 31% of adults hold at least a bachelor’s degree. Average high school graduation rates exceed 85%. School safety ratings are above state average, with minimal reported incidents. Educational programs include STEM, arts, and vocational training. Frontier Regional High School holds a GreatSchools rating of 7/10. Adult education is supported by literacy and workforce development programs, serving over 700 adult learners annually.

As of 2022, Franklin County, MA, had an employment rate of approximately 60%, with about 37,000 residents active in the labor force. Major industries include education and health services (27%), retail trade (12%), and manufacturing (11%). The most common occupation types are management, professional, and related occupations, comprising around 38% of jobs. Over 75% of workers commute by car, with a median commute time of 25 minutes, and about 45% work within the county while the remainder travel to neighboring Hampshire and Hampden counties.

Franklin County, MA, has a homeownership rate of about 68% and a median home value of $295,000 in 2023. Median rent is approximately $1,100 per month. The property market has seen a steady 6% annual increase in values over the past three years. Housing types range from historic colonials in Greenfield to rural farmhouses and small multi-family units. The area includes neighborhoods like Deerfield, Montague, and Shelburne Falls. Property taxes average $17 per $1,000 assessed value, and the relatively affordable market attracts first-time buyers and retirees alike.