Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Oxford County, ME had a population of 57,777. The median age was 47.5 years, with 49.5% male and 50.5% female residents. Racially, the county is predominantly White (95.6%), with smaller populations of Two or More Races (2.1%), Black or African American (0.7%), Native American (0.5%), and Asian (0.4%). Hispanic or Latino residents comprise 1.2% of the population.

Elections

Oxford County, Maine, counted around 45,000 residents in 2020, with approximately 31,000 registered voters as of 2022. The county holds municipal, primary, state, and federal elections, with 36 polling locations spread across towns like Norway and Rumford. Recent results: in the 2020 presidential election, 53% favored Trump and 44% Biden. Key issues include property taxes and broadband expansion. The Oxford County Elections Office, part of the Clerk’s office, oversees administration. Voters register mainly as Democrat, Republican, or Unenrolled, with Republicans slightly leading registrations in 2023.

Education, Employment and Housing

Oxford County, Maine, has approximately 34 public schools, including 6 high schools. Around 92.6% of adults aged 25+ are high school graduates, with 19.8% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher (U.S. Census, 2022). Average standardized test scores for the county’s high schools range from 65% to 75% proficiency in reading and math. Adult education is available through local programs like RSU 10’s Adult Education. Schools emphasize safety with resource officers and emergency plans. Educational programs include STEM, vocational training, special education, and Advanced Placement courses.

As of 2022, Oxford County, ME, had an employment rate of about 56.9%. The leading industries include healthcare and social assistance (14.7%), retail trade (13.1%), and manufacturing (11.8%). Most workers are employed in office/administrative support (12%), sales (10%), and production (9%). Around 79% of employees commute by car, with an average travel time of 27 minutes; 68% work within the county itself. Largest employment hubs are Norway, Rumford, and South Paris.

Oxford County, ME, has a homeownership rate of approximately 80%, with median home values around $230,000 as of 2023. Rental options are limited, with median rents near $900 per month. Housing types include single-family homes, seasonal cabins, and multifamily units, particularly in towns like Norway, Bethel, and Rumford. Property values have risen steadily—about 8% year-over-year—due to demand for rural living. Property tax rates average 1.25% of assessed value. Popular neighborhoods cluster around lakes, ski areas, and downtowns, offering diverse options for residents seeking quiet or access to recreational amenities.

County Crime & Safety

Oxford County, ME, generally experiences lower crime rates compared to national averages. In 2022, the property crime rate was about 13.2 incidents per 1,000 residents, while violent crime stood at 1.0 per 1,000, both below U.S. averages. Sheriffs routinely report and address primarily theft, burglary, and occasional drug-related offenses. The county prioritizes public safety, with local law enforcement encouraging community reporting and engagement to maintain low crime levels.