Kitsap County Public RecordsWashington

Kitsap County, WA, has over 200,000 registered voters as of 2024. Elections include presidential, congressional, local, and school board races. In the 2020 presidential election, 56% voted Democratic and 40% Republican. Ballots are largely mail-in, but there are 7 ballot drop-box locations and 2 accessible voting centers. Issues like housing, ferry service, and property taxes are prominent. Elections are administered by the Kitsap County Auditor, with oversight from both major parties. Voter turnout typically exceeds 80% in general elections and 35% in primaries.

Kitsap County, WA, has 38 public high schools and a total of over 100 public schools. Approximately 94% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 32% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average public school rating is 6/10 on GreatSchools. Kitsap schools offer career and technical education, Advanced Placement, and Running Start dual-credit programs. School safety initiatives include resource officers and mental health support staff. Olympic College in Bremerton provides adult education and workforce programs.

As of 2023, Kitsap County, WA, has an unemployment rate of approximately 4.2%. Major employment sectors include government (27%), healthcare and social assistance (16%), and retail trade (12%). Common occupations are in management, office/administration, and sales. Roughly 80% of employed residents commute by car, with average commute times of 31 minutes; over 35% commute outside the county, primarily to Seattle via ferry. Naval Base Kitsap is the largest employer, supporting over 15,000 civilian and military jobs, significantly shaping the local workforce.

Kitsap County, WA, has a homeownership rate of around 68%, with median home values near $500,000 as of early 2024. The median monthly rent is approximately $1,850. Housing types include single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments, with neighborhoods like Silverdale, Bremerton, and Poulsbo offering varied options. Over the past year, property values have risen about 4%. Annual property tax rates average 1.01% of assessed value. The area balances suburban living with ferry access to Seattle, making it attractive for commuters and families seeking a mix of affordability and lifestyle.

As of 2023, Kitsap County, WA has an estimated population of 279,000. The median age is around 40 years, with 49.3% male and 50.7% female residents. Racially, the county is 76% White, 7% Asian, 3% Black or African American, 1.6% Native American, and 10% Hispanic or Latino (of any race). Approximately 2% identify as two or more races.

Kitsap County, WA, has a crime rate below the national average, with 2022 FBI data showing about 2,250 property crimes and 210 violent crimes per 100,000 residents. The sheriff’s office reports consistent year-over-year decreases in burglaries and thefts, while violent crimes—mainly assault—remain relatively stable. Kitsap’s crime clearance rate is 34%, above the national average of 26%. Residents are encouraged to report incidents via 911 or online platforms, supporting proactive law enforcement and community safety programs.