Elections

Grant County, WA has about 54,000 registered voters (2024). The county conducts regular general, primary, and special elections, overseen by the Grant County Auditor’s Office. In the 2020 presidential election, 71% voted Republican and 26% Democrat. Voting is mainly by mail; accessible in-person voting and ballot drop boxes are available at locations such as the Grant County Courthouse. Key issues often include water rights and agriculture. The county leans Republican in party affiliation, and turnout in general elections averages around 60%. Major parties represented include Republican, Democratic, and Libertarian.

County Crime & Safety

Grant County, WA, experiences a moderate crime rate compared to state averages. According to the latest statistics, the county reports a violent crime rate of 2.9 incidents per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 19.7 per 1,000, both slightly above the Washington state averages. Local law enforcement actively encourages community reporting and crime prevention programs, resulting in a clearance rate of roughly 30% for violent crimes. While some rural areas report lower crime, cities like Moses Lake have higher rates, prompting ongoing safety initiatives and community outreach to improve overall security.

Education, Employment and Housing

Grant County, WA, has over 40 public schools, including 11 high schools. About 82% of adults have a high school diploma, while around 15% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average public school test scores are below the state median, with proficiency in math at 36% and reading at 47%. School safety initiatives include resource officers and mental health support. Adult education is offered through institutions like Big Bend Community College, providing GED and workforce programs. Educational programs range from STEM to vocational training, addressing diverse student needs.

As of 2023, Grant County, WA, has an employment rate of approximately 58%. Key industries include agriculture (22%), manufacturing (13%), education and health services (15%), and retail trade (10%). Major occupations are production (15%), office and administrative support (12%), and management (8%). About 70% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 21 minutes; over 55% work within the county while others commute to neighboring counties such as Adams and Yakima. Employment hubs include Moses Lake and Ephrata, supporting both local and regional economies.

Grant County, WA, features a homeownership rate of about 66%, with median home values around $309,000 in 2024. Median monthly rent is roughly $1,200. Housing types range from single-family homes to apartments, with popular neighborhoods in Moses Lake, Ephrata, and Quincy. The area has seen property values rise about 5% year-over-year. Property tax rates average 1.0% of assessed value. Grant County’s mix of rural and small-town communities offers both affordable housing options and continued growth in the real estate market.

Demographics

As of 2023, Grant County, WA, has an estimated population of about 101,000. The median age is roughly 33 years. Around 50.5% are male and 49.5% female. The racial and ethnic composition is approximately 56% White, 1.7% Black or African American, 1.4% Native American, 1.2% Asian, and 36% Hispanic or Latino (of any race). The county is known for its youthful, diverse population, with a significant Hispanic community contributing to local culture and economy.