Chelan County Public RecordsWashington

Chelan County, WA, had approximately 45,800 registered voters as of 2023. The county conducts elections for federal, state, and local offices, with mail-in voting as standard; a few ballot drop-boxes serve as polling locations. In the 2020 presidential election, Chelan County voted 58% Republican and 39% Democrat. Key issues include wildfire management, water rights, and housing. Elections are managed by the Chelan County Auditor’s Office. The county leans Republican, but active Democratic and independent voters influence local races. Recent turnout rates surpass 74%, reflecting strong civic engagement.

Chelan County, WA, has 38 public schools (including 8 high schools), serving over 13,000 students. About 89% of adults have a high school diploma, and approximately 24% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average school ratings range from 5 to 7/10 (GreatSchools). The county emphasizes school safety with regular drills and resource officers. Adult education programs are offered at Wenatchee Valley College and other centers, supporting lifelong learning. Schools provide AP, STEM, and bilingual programs to enhance educational outcomes for diverse learners.

Chelan County, WA, has an employment rate of approximately 60%, with about 40,000 employed residents. Major industries include healthcare (15%), agriculture (13%), retail trade (11%), and education (10%). Leading occupations are management (11%), office/administration (10%), and sales (9%). Around 80% of workers commute by car, with a mean travel time of 19 minutes; most work within the county, especially in Wenatchee. The local economy is strongly supported by agriculture, tourism, and healthcare sectors, shaping both employment patterns and commuting behaviors in the region.

Chelan County, WA, has a homeownership rate of about 67%, with median home values around $470,000 as of 2024. Median monthly rent is approximately $1,400. Housing types range from single-family homes to apartments, with popular neighborhoods including Wenatchee, Leavenworth, and Chelan. The property market has seen steady 5-8% annual growth in recent years. Property tax rates average about 0.92% of assessed value. The area offers a mix of urban and rural living, attracting both families and retirees.

Chelan County, WA, has a moderate crime rate compared to statewide averages. In 2023, crime data shows a rate of approximately 2,150 incidents per 100,000 residents. Property crime, including burglary and theft, accounts for over 70% of reported cases, while violent crime remains low at around 210 incidents per 100,000 people. The Chelan County Sheriff’s Office and local police departments regularly report crime statistics through annual summaries and to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, aiding efforts to enhance community safety.

As of 2023, Chelan County, WA, has an estimated population of 80,000. The median age is about 40 years, with 50.2% female and 49.8% male residents. Racially, the population is 67% White, 29% Hispanic or Latino, 1% Asian, 1% Native American, and 2% other/multiracial. Children under 18 comprise 23%, while 17% are aged 65 and over.