Columbia County Public RecordsWashington

Columbia County, WA has 3 public schools, including 1 high school (Dayton High). About 23% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the state average. School test scores generally fall near or slightly below national averages. School safety is rated well, with no recent major incidents reported. Educational programs focus on STEM and vocational training, and adult education is offered through local partnerships. The student-teacher ratio averages 14:1, supporting individualized attention.

As of 2022, Columbia County, WA, had an unemployment rate of approximately 5.4%. Major employment sectors include agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting (20%), health care and social assistance (15%), and educational services (10%). About 58% of workers are employed in management, business, science, and arts occupations. Roughly 75% of residents commute by car, with a mean travel time of 17 minutes. While many work locally, around 20% commute to neighboring counties such as Walla Walla and Garfield for employment opportunities.

Columbia County, WA, has a homeownership rate of approximately 72%, with median home values near $240,000 as of 2023. The rental market is limited, with median rents around $900 monthly. Single-family homes dominate housing types, with some historic properties in Dayton and rural residences. Recent market trends show modest appreciation, with prices up about 3% year-over-year. Neighborhoods like Dayton offer small-town charm, while outlying areas provide spacious lots. Property taxes average 1% of assessed value, translating to around $2,400 annually for median-priced homes, lower than the national average, reflecting the area’s rural character and affordability.

Columbia County, WA, maintains relatively low crime rates. According to the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs 2022 report, the county had a total of 49 reported crimes, including 9 violent offenses and 40 property crimes. The violent crime rate per 1,000 residents is around 1.6, significantly below state and national averages. Law enforcement agencies encourage active crime reporting, and clearance rates for major offenses are above 80%. Overall, Columbia County is considered a safe community with proactive public safety measures.

Columbia County, WA, had 2,958 registered voters in 2023. The county conducts general, primary, and special elections, typically by mail-in ballot. In the 2020 presidential election, 70.5% voted Republican, 26.7% Democratic. Polling can occur at the county auditor’s office in Dayton. Election administration is managed by the County Auditor, ensuring compliance with state laws. Issues often center on agriculture, rural infrastructure, and property taxes. The two major parties, Republican and Democratic, are active locally. Voter turnout in recent general elections has exceeded 80%.

As of the 2020 Census, Columbia County, WA had a population of 3,952. The median age was 51.1 years, reflecting an older demographic, with 25% aged 65 and over. The gender split was roughly equal—50.4% male and 49.6% female. Racially, 91.5% identified as White, 1.2% Native American, 0.5% Asian, 0.5% Black or African American, and 5.8% of two or more races; 6.6% were Hispanic or Latino of any race.