The population subsequently declined to about 4,000 residents, where it remained for several decades before shrinking further due to outmigration fueled by diminished job opportunities.

[20] To save money, some of Tyrrell's government services are consolidated with other neighboring rural counties such as Hyde and Washington.

In the 2020 elections in Tyrrell County, Republicans took more votes than Democrats in federal and statewide contests.

[23] Tyrrell County's economy is heavily reliant on agriculture—with its largest crop being potatoes[9] — as well as forestry and fishing.

[24] The county also hosts a small tourism industry centered around hunting, fishing, and bird watching.