Cowlitz County Public RecordsWashington

Cowlitz County, WA, had 65,479 registered voters in 2022. The county administers general, primary, and special elections, overseen by the Elections Department in Kelso. In the 2020 presidential election, 59% voted Republican, 38% Democrat. There are 23 official ballot drop boxes and accessible voting centers. Key local issues include industrial development and environmental regulations. Major parties are Republican and Democratic, but independents are present. Voter turnout typically ranges from 60-73%. The Auditor’s Office manages elections and posts detailed results and information online.

As of 2023, Cowlitz County, WA, has a population of about 112,000. The median age is 41 years, with 49.8% male and 50.2% female residents. Racially, the county is 85% White, 2% Asian, 1.5% Black or African American, 2.6% Native American, 0.4% Pacific Islander, and 8% Hispanic or Latino (of any race).

Cowlitz County, WA, has over 50 public schools, including 7 high schools, serving approximately 17,000 students. About 88% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 15% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average school proficiency scores in math and reading are around 45%–50%. The county offers adult education and vocational programs through Lower Columbia College. School safety initiatives are in place, and many schools provide STEM, AP, and special education programs to support diverse learning needs.

As of 2023, Cowlitz County, WA had an employment rate of approximately 59%. Top industries include healthcare and social assistance (14.2%), manufacturing (13.6%), and retail trade (12.5%). The most common occupations are office and administrative support (13.3%), sales (9.8%), and production (9.7%). About 80% of employed residents commute by car, with an average commute time of 25 minutes; 66% work within the county, while 34% commute primarily to Clark and Multnomah Counties for employment.

Cowlitz County, WA has a homeownership rate of about 67%, with median home values around $370,000 as of early 2024. The median rent is approximately $1,350 per month. Property values have increased about 5% year-over-year. Housing options range from single-family homes in neighborhoods like West Longview and Lexington to rentals and apartments in Kelso. Property tax rates average 1.02% of assessed value. The mix of affordable homes and rental options attracts both families and commuters seeking value outside the Portland metro area.

Cowlitz County, WA, has a crime rate higher than the state average, with 2022 reports showing about 3,380 property crimes and 313 violent crimes per 100,000 people. The burglary rate stands at 637 per 100,000, and the county’s overall crime rate is roughly 13% above the Washington state average. Local law enforcement encourages prompt crime reporting via the county’s online and emergency services, and neighborhoods are supported by community watch programs to enhance safety measures.