Lafayette County Public RecordsWisconsin

Lafayette County, WI maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported a total of 46 crimes, including 6 violent crimes and 40 property crimes, according to FBI statistics. The property crime rate was approximately 1.3 per 1,000 residents, while violent crime stood at 0.2 per 1,000 residents. Crime reporting is handled by the Lafayette County Sheriff’s Office, ensuring public safety through community policing initiatives. Overall, the county is considered safe, with crime rates significantly below state and national levels.

As of the 2020 Census, Lafayette County, WI, had a population of approximately 16,611. The median age was around 42 years, with 49.8% male and 50.2% female residents. Racially, the county is predominantly White (96.3%), with smaller populations of Hispanic or Latino (2.6%), Black or African American (0.3%), Asian (0.4%), and Native American (0.3%). The county's demographic trends reflect a largely aging and homogeneous population.

Lafayette County, WI, has 9 public schools, including 3 high schools. About 89% of adults have a high school diploma, but only 17% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average school test scores are around 50% (state average: 53%). Schools emphasize safety and offer extracurricular and career-focused programs. Adult education opportunities include literacy and technical training through partnerships with Southwest Wisconsin Technical College.

As of 2022, Lafayette County, WI had an employment rate of approximately 67%. Leading industries include manufacturing (18%), agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting (14%), and healthcare and social assistance (12%). The most common occupations are production (16%), management (15%), and office/administrative support (10%). About 77% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 24 minutes. Nearly 65% of employed residents work within the county, while others commute primarily to neighboring Grant and Iowa counties.

Lafayette County, WI has a homeownership rate of around 77%, with median home values near $175,000 (2022). Rental units comprise about 23% of housing, with median gross rents at $730/month. The local housing market has seen property values rise by roughly 8% over the past year. Predominant housing types include single-family homes and some duplexes, mainly in rural and small-town neighborhoods like Darlington and Shullsburg. The effective property tax rate averages 1.7%. Neighborhoods are quiet and community-oriented, appealing to families and retirees seeking affordability and rural charm.

Lafayette County, WI, has about 11,600 residents and just over 7,500 registered voters as of 2023. The county conducts elections for federal, state, and local offices, with polling at 17 municipal locations. In the 2020 presidential election, 63% voted Republican and 35% Democrat. Key issues include agriculture, healthcare, and rural broadband. The County Clerk oversees election administration, ensuring compliance with state law. Both Democratic and Republican parties are active locally, though recent results trend Republican. Voters must register either online, by mail, or in person, and ID is required at the polls.