Garfield County Public RecordsWashington

Garfield County, WA, serves students through Garfield-Palouse Schools, which includes 1 high school. Around 91% of adults hold a high school diploma, but only about 23% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety ratings are above average, and the student-to-teacher ratio is approximately 13:1. The district offers educational programs in STEM and agricultural sciences. Adult education opportunities are limited locally, though some programs are available online or through nearby community colleges. Overall, the county’s schools score about 6/10 on state assessments.

Garfield County, WA, had an employment rate of approximately 56% in 2022. The largest industries by employment are agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting (about 27%), followed by educational services, and health care and social assistance (22%). Common occupations include management, farming, and education. The median commute time is around 16 minutes, with over 80% of residents driving alone to work. Most employment is located within the county, though some residents commute to neighboring counties like Asotin or Whitman for jobs.

Garfield County, WA, has a high homeownership rate of around 73%. Median home values are approximately $185,000, with average rents near $900 per month. The housing market is relatively stable, with modest annual value increases of about 2%. Most homes are single-family houses, primarily in towns like Pomeroy, the county seat. Neighborhoods are rural and close-knit. Property tax rates average 1.03%, lower than the national average. The area experiences low housing turnover, and affordability remains favorable compared to urban Washington markets.

Garfield County, WA, is among the safest counties in the state, with a notably low crime rate. In 2022, the county reported only 7 total crimes, including zero violent crimes and 7 property crimes, resulting in a crime rate of approximately 2.9 incidents per 1,000 residents. Law enforcement maintains thorough crime reporting, and public safety initiatives help keep both residents and visitors secure. The county’s crime rate is significantly below the national average, reflecting its status as a quiet and safe rural community.

Garfield County, WA, had an estimated 2023 population of about 2,240, making it the least populous county in Washington. Approximately 51% are male and 49% are female. The median age is 51.7 years, with over 26% aged 65 or older. Racially, the county is 92% White, 3% Hispanic or Latino, 1% Native American, and less than 1% each for Black, Asian, and other races.

Garfield County, WA, had 1,740 registered voters as of 2022, making it Washington’s least populous county. Elections include federal, state, and local races, plus ballot measures. In the 2020 presidential election, 74% voted Republican and 23% Democrat. Polling is conducted primarily by mail; an accessible voting center operates at the Auditor’s Office in Pomeroy. Key issues include agricultural policy and rural infrastructure. The election process is administered by the County Auditor. Republicans hold local leadership majorities, with Democrats a minority. Turnout is high, often exceeding 70%.