Norfolk County Public RecordsMassachusetts

Norfolk County, MA, boasts lower crime rates compared to state and national averages. In 2022, the violent crime rate was approximately 113 incidents per 100,000 residents, while property crime was about 812 per 100,000—both significantly below U.S. averages (380 and 1,958, respectively). The county is served by multiple local police departments, with crime statistics regularly reported to the Massachusetts State Police and FBI. Community policing and rapid response initiatives contribute to overall safety, making Norfolk one of the safer counties in Massachusetts.

As of 2022, Norfolk County, MA has a population of approximately 723,000. The median age is 41.9 years, with 51.7% female and 48.3% male residents. Racially, the population is 74.9% White, 6.8% Black or African American, 9.7% Asian, 0.2% Native American, and 4.5% Hispanic or Latino. About 17% are under 18 and 17% are 65 or older, reflecting both a sizable youth and senior population.

Norfolk County, MA, has approximately 500,000 residents, with about 350,000 registered voters. Voters can register online, by mail, or in person. Elections include state, federal, and local races, with turnout ranging from 25% in municipal to over 70% in presidential years; in 2020, 74% voted. Major parties are Democratic and Republican, with Democrats holding a voter registration advantage (about 50% vs. 12%). Polling locations number over 200, managed by the Norfolk County Election Commission. Key issues include education, property taxes, and infrastructure. Election results, polling places, and updates are published on the county’s official website.

Norfolk County, MA is known for strong educational outcomes: over 52% of residents hold at least a bachelor’s degree—well above national average. The county has approximately 60 public high schools and over 140 public schools overall. Average public high school graduation rates exceed 95%, and standardized test scores typically rank in the state’s top quartile. School safety is highly rated, with most districts reporting minimal incidents annually. Additionally, Norfolk offers a variety of adult education and advanced placement programs, enhancing lifelong learning and post-secondary readiness.

Norfolk County, MA, boasts an employment rate of approximately 66.2%. Major industries include health care and social assistance (18%), educational services (13%), and professional, scientific, and technical services (12%). Common occupations are management (15%), office and administrative support (11%), and sales (9%). About 78% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 33 minutes. While many work within the county, significant numbers commute to Boston and surrounding cities for employment.

Norfolk County, MA has a median home value of around $660,000 and a median rent of $2,500 monthly (2024). About 68% of residents are homeowners, with well-preserved Colonials, Cape Cods, condos, and apartments common across towns like Brookline, Quincy, and Needham. Property values have risen roughly 6% year-over-year. Property taxes average 1.08% of assessed value. Neighborhoods vary from urban centers to quiet suburbs, offering diverse amenities and school districts.