Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Delaware County, NY, had a population of approximately 44,308. The median age is 49.5 years, reflecting an older demographic. Gender distribution is roughly 50.6% male to 49.4% female. Racially, the county is predominantly White (90.7%), with smaller populations of Black or African American (2.1%), Native American (0.3%), Asian (1.1%), and those of two or more races (5.2%). Hispanic or Latino residents make up 4.0% of the population.

Elections

Delaware County, NY, had around 28,000 registered voters in 2022, split mainly between Republicans (about 45%), Democrats (30%), and unaffiliated/others. The county holds primary, general, and local elections, with the 2020 presidential vote favoring Trump (over 59%) versus Biden (about 39%). There are more than 30 polling locations across 19 townships. Key issues often include rural broadband, economic development, and health care. Elections are administered by the bipartisan Board of Elections. The Republican Party generally dominates local offices, but Democrats maintain a competitive presence in some areas.

County Crime & Safety

Delaware County, NY, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state averages. In 2022, the county reported approximately 480 total crimes, with about 65 violent crimes and 415 property crimes, resulting in a crime rate of roughly 12.8 incidents per 1,000 residents. The sheriff’s office actively promotes community policing and regular reporting, which has contributed to a steady decrease in crime over recent years. Residents generally consider the area safe, with most incidents being minor property offenses; violent crime remains uncommon.

Education, Employment and Housing

Delaware County, NY has approximately 12 public high schools serving around 2,000 students, with a graduation rate of 87%. About 22.5% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average student-teacher ratio is 10:1, and most schools score around the state average on standardized tests. Adult education is offered through BOCES programs. Reported incidents reflect a relatively safe school environment, with fewer than 2 incidents per 100 students annually. Schools provide programs in STEM, the arts, and career/technical education, supporting student development across academic and vocational pathways.

Delaware County, NY, has an employment rate of approximately 53%, with about 18,500 people in the labor force. Major industries include health care and social assistance (19%), retail trade (13%), and educational services (11%). The most common occupation types are office and administrative support (14%) and sales (10%). Approximately 79% of workers commute by car, with an average travel time of 24 minutes; over 76% work within the county, while about 24% commute to neighboring areas such as Otsego and Broome counties. The unemployment rate is around 3.8% (2022 ACS).

Delaware County, NY, features a median home value of around $163,000 in 2024, with homeownership rates near 75%. Median monthly rent is approximately $950. The real estate market has seen modest value increases of 4% over the past year. Housing types include historic farmhouses, single-family homes, and seasonal cabins, primarily spread across rural neighborhoods like Walton, Delhi, and Margaretville. Property taxes average 2.1% of assessed value, among the higher rates in New York State. The area attracts both year-round residents and second-home buyers seeking affordable, scenic properties.