Demographics

As of 2022, Rockland County, NY, has approximately 339,000 residents. The population is 50.6% female and 49.4% male, with a median age of 38. Racially, Rockland is 63% White (non-Hispanic), 14% Black or African American, 6% Asian, and 17% Hispanic or Latino (of any race). Children under 18 account for 25% of the population, while 16% are 65 or older, reflecting a diverse and dynamic community.

County Crime & Safety

Rockland County, NY, generally reports lower crime rates compared to national averages. In 2023, the violent crime rate was approximately 1.8 incidents per 1,000 residents, while property crime stood at 9.5 per 1,000. The county’s law enforcement recorded around 600 total property crimes and 120 violent crimes last year. Regular public safety updates and transparency in crime reporting contribute to Rockland’s reputation as one of the safer counties in New York State.

Elections

Rockland County, NY, had about 200,000 registered voters as of 2022. Residents participate in local, state, and federal elections, including presidential, congressional, and county races. In the 2020 presidential election, 53% voted Democratic, 45% Republican. Key polling locations include local schools and community centers across its 5 towns. Main issues include taxes, education, public safety, and overdevelopment. Elections are administered by the bipartisan Rockland County Board of Elections. Major parties include Democrats, Republicans, and minor parties like the Conservative and Working Families parties. Voter turnout typically ranges from 60-72% in general elections.

Education, Employment and Housing

Rockland County, NY, features 51 public schools and 29 private schools, with an average high school graduation rate of 91%. Approximately 41% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Public schools in Rockland average a GreatSchools score of 6/10, reflecting above-average academic performance. The county emphasizes school safety, ranking among New York’s safer districts, and offers diverse educational programs including STEM, arts, and adult education at Rockland Community College. Continuous investments in education contribute to strong student outcomes and adult learning opportunities.

Rockland County, NY, boasts an employment rate of approximately 62.3% (2022). Major industries include healthcare and social assistance (18.4%), educational services (13.7%), and retail trade (10.5%). Key occupations involve management, business, science, and arts (41%). About 32% of residents commute to Manhattan, and 78% drive to work, with a mean commute time of 33 minutes. The county’s workforce is diversified, with strong representation in public administration and professional, scientific, and technical services.

Rockland County, NY, features a homeownership rate around 70%, with median home values at $565,000 as of early 2024, up about 5% year-over-year. Median rent is approximately $2,700/month. Popular neighborhoods include Nyack, New City, and Pearl River, offering a mix of single-family homes, condos, and apartments. Property taxes are among the highest in the nation, averaging $13,000–$15,000 annually. The market trends show steady demand and limited inventory, leading to rising prices. Rental vacancy rates are low, reflecting tight supply, and both buyers and renters face competitive conditions across most areas.