Elections

Asotin County, WA had 14,279 registered voters in 2023. The County conducts Primary, General, and Special Elections, using vote-by-mail with one ballot drop box at Asotin County Courthouse, 135 2nd St, Asotin. In the 2020 Presidential Election, turnout was 75.2%, with 69% voting Republican, 27% Democrat. The County Auditor administers elections, ensuring compliance with state law. Key issues include property taxes and school levies. Political activity is mainly between Republican and Democratic parties, with Republicans having a clear majority in recent results.

County Crime & Safety

Asotin County, WA, generally experiences lower crime rates compared to national averages. In 2022, the overall crime rate was approximately 19.7 incidents per 1,000 residents, with 117 property crimes and 22 violent crimes reported. The county’s violent crime rate is about 1.7 per 1,000 residents, substantially below the state average. Law enforcement encourages prompt crime reporting, which has improved local response times and contributed to a relatively safe community environment.

Education, Employment and Housing

Asotin County, WA, has around 9 public schools, including three high schools. High school graduation rates are about 90%, while approximately 25% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety scores are generally above the state average, and educational programs include dual-credit, STEM, and special education. Student-to-teacher ratios average 17:1, and adult education opportunities are available through local community colleges. Overall, schools in Asotin County score 6-7/10 on state assessments, reflecting solid performance and a commitment to student growth and safety.

Asotin County, WA, has an employment rate of approximately 59.2% (2022, U.S. Census). Major industries include Health Care & Social Assistance (19%), Retail Trade (15%), and Educational Services (10%). Key occupations are Office & Administrative Support (13%), Sales (11%), and Management (10%). About 82% of workers commute by car, with a mean travel time of 18 minutes, and around 80% work within the county, while others commute to Clarkston and Lewiston, ID.

Asotin County, WA, has a homeownership rate of about 71%, with median home values around $287,000 as of 2023. The median gross rent is approximately $850 per month. Housing types range from single-family homes to some townhouses and apartments, mainly concentrated in neighborhoods like Clarkston and Asotin. Property values have risen around 7% year-over-year. Property tax rates average 1% of assessed value, translating to an estimated $2,870 annually for a median-priced home. The most popular neighborhoods offer access to schools, parks, and the Snake River, making the area attractive for families and retirees.

Demographics

As of 2023, Asotin County, WA, has a population of approximately 22,500. The median age is about 44 years, with 50.3% female and 49.7% male residents. Racially, the county is 92% White, 2% Native American, 1% Asian, and 1% African American, with 4% identifying as two or more races. Hispanic or Latino individuals comprise roughly 4% of the population.