Burnet

Burnet County

Updated on: November 16, 2021
Coordinates
30° 46' 48" N, 98° 10' 48" W (30.78, -98.18)
State
Texas
Region
Central
County Seat:
Burnet
Year Organized:
1852
Total Square Miles:
1021.262
994 square miles (2,570 km2) land
27 square miles (70 km2) is water
Population:
46804 (2017)
Population: 46,243 Est. (2016) 42,750 (2010)
Persons/Square Mile:
46
Burnet County Website
http://www.burnetcountytexas.org/

Contiguous Counties

Lampasas (N)
Bell (NE)
Williamson (E)
Travis (SE)
Blanco (S)
Llano (W)
San Saba (NW)

County structure

Government Type:
County
Authority:
Dillon's Rule
Legislative Body:
Commisioners Court
Size of Legislative Body:
5

Demographics

2018 Population:
46804
25 to 64 Years of Age:
48.82%
65 Years of Age and Older:
22.35%

Economy, 2018

Gross Domestic Product (GDP):
$1.3 B
Labor Force:
23,033
Unemployment Rate:
2.90%

County Contact

200 S Pierce St
County Courthouse
Burnet, TX

http://www.burnetcountytexas.org

Burnet County, Texas, is one of the oldest counties in Texas. It dates back to 1846 when it was formed from a piece of land that was part of Travis and Williamson Counties. An act of Congress created this idea on March 3rd, 1845.  

The county seat has always been Burnet. There are only two other towns with a population of over 1,000 people: Llano and Lakeway. 

A Brief History of Burnet County 

The county derived its name from Robert W. “Bobby” Burnett, who served as sheriff for several years during the 1850s. He later became a prominent rancher and business owner in Central Texas.  

His ranching interests included the famous Rancho de las Golondrinas near present-day San Angelo. Bobby’s son John R. Burnett also played a role in establishing the county. After serving as district attorney, he represented Burnet County at statehood. 

Besides being named after these men, Burnet County shares another connection with them. Both son’s married daughters of William B. Travis. This led to some confusion about whether the county should be called either Travis or Burnet.  

However, since both families lived within the boundaries of what would become the new county, they kept their names. 

Burnet County Offices 

There are over ten-county offices in Burnet. The offices provide various services to the citizens of Burnet. Some offices include; 

The Commissioner’s Court Office governs Burnet county. They oversee all aspects of local government, including elections, zoning, planning, public works, parks & recreation.  

Additionally, the office handles health services, animal control, law enforcement, and emergency management, etc. You can reach the office at 512-756-5406. 

Burnet County Attorney is another crucial office. Their job is to represent the county before courts and administrative agencies.  

If you have any legal questions regarding your rights or responsibilities under the laws governing Burnet County, this department is critical. Contact this office at (512) 756-5476 or [email protected].  

The county Auditor office is under Karin Smith. If you have questions regarding Burnet county auditing, call (512) 756-5495 or [email protected].  

Burnet County Clerk Office is under Janet Parker. It is at Courthouse on the Square. Submit your questions and concerns to [email protected] or call the office at 512-756-5406. 

The County Sheriff’s office provides essential services to the residents of Burnet County. Sheriff’s deputies patrol the streets looking out for crime and traffic violations. 

They enforce court orders such as restraining orders and arrest warrants. Call 911 if you need help immediately. For non-emergency situations, contact the office at (512) 756-8080.  

The County tax assessor’s office ensures that owners pay property taxes correctly. The office location is at Courthouse Annex North. Call 512-756-5494 or email at [email protected]. 

Population and Size of the County 

According to the US sensors report in 2019, Burnet has a population of over 48,155 residents. Hence, it stands as the third-most populous county in Texas. Its area measures approximately 2,976 square miles. 

Geographically the county is along Interstate 35 between Austin and Houston. Burnet County covers most of central West Texas. Most of the county lies in the Edwards Plateau region, but parts of the southern portion lie in the rolling hills of East Texas. 

The population size keeps growing because of the excellent economy that sustains livelihoods throughout the county. As such, many businesses have opened up shop here.   

There are over 100 restaurants in Burnet alone. Many of those establishments offer fine dining experiences. Some even serve gourmet meals. 

Entertainment Opportunities and Leisure 

There are numerous places to find entertainment options too. You will enjoy the bars in this town. They all feature live music performances every night. If you prefer something different, then head out to see a play or musical performance.  

Additionally, you can visit attractive sites like the historic courthouse building, the old jailhouse, and the museum. These attractions provide visitors with exciting stories and information about local history. 

If you choose to relax, take advantage of the beautiful scenery around Burnet. Hiking trails are common, and so are scenic drives through the countryside. Besides, enjoy a picnic under the shade of trees. Irrespective of your preference, you’ll find something to enjoy in Burnet County. 

Does Burnet Offer Quality Education? 

Education opportunities in Burnet county are exceptional. Beginning from elementary schools, high school students get an excellent education. The public schools boast top-notch facilities and teachers.  

For example, Burnet high school offers AP courses to earn college credit while still attending high school. 

Moreover, private institutions are offering higher learning programs. Students may choose among colleges, universities, technical institutes, trade schools, etc. 

Regarding colleges and universities, UTEP offers a wide range of programs. It is one of only two community college campuses in the entire country that operates on a semester system.  

Most classes begin early each fall term so that students don’t need to worry about getting summer jobs. 

What Other Opportunities Are Available in Burnett County  

Apart from educational opportunities, Burnet offers job opportunities through the county website. Job seekers should check for openings at their convenience. Employers post new positions regularly.  

This way, people who wish to work can apply whenever they feel ready. Besides employment, Burnet also provides services to its citizens.  

Health care providers operate clinics in various locations across the city. Additionally, social service agencies help needy families.  

Can Burnet Offer a Good Living Place? 

As much as everyone has their preferences, it widely depends on what you like most about Burnet. When planning to settle in Burnet, you need to check the climate first.  

Make sure you know what kind of weather prevails during certain seasons.  

You must know the cost of living in Burnet. Check whether prices vary depending on location. Find out which areas charge less for housing costs. That’s important when budgeting money for rent or mortgage payments. 

Also, make sure you have access to transportation. Is it easy to travel within the area? How many hours does it take to commute to work? Do you own a car or would you use public transport instead? All these factors affect affordability. 

Is Burnet County Safe? 

Safety is a crucial factor when choosing between cities. Although Burnet has several crime rates, crimes against property are more common than violent crimes in other counties.  

However, the sheriff’s department ensures order in all parts of town. Residents can report any suspicious activity immediately.