Klickitat County Public RecordsWashington

Klickitat County, WA, has a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported approximately 350 total crimes, with property crime making up about 82% (286 incidents) and violent crimes accounting for 18% (64 incidents). The crime rate is around 17.8 per 1,000 residents, lower than the Washington state average. Law enforcement actively encourages crime reporting, leading to prompt responses and community outreach. Overall, Klickitat County is considered safe, with local agencies committed to maintaining public safety through regular patrolling and preventative programs.

As of 2023, Klickitat County, WA has approximately 23,000 residents. The median age is about 44 years, with 49% male and 51% female. Racially, the population is 83% White, 2% Native American, 1% Asian, 0.5% Black, and 11% from other or two or more races. About 15% identify as Hispanic or Latino. The age distribution includes roughly 22% under 18, 59% ages 18-64, and 19% 65 or older.

Klickitat County, WA, has 22 public schools serving approximately 4,000 students, including four high schools. About 87% of adults have a high school diploma, while 18% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average district scores range from 45-55% proficiency in math and reading. School safety is above state average, with low reported incident rates. Adult education programs are available through community colleges. Career and technical education are notable in local high schools, supporting diverse educational pathways.

As of 2022, Klickitat County, WA, had an employment rate of 58.2%. The leading industries include manufacturing (22%), health care and social assistance (13%), and agriculture (11%). Major occupation types are production (17%), office and administrative support (13%), and management (12%). Around 73% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 22.2 minutes. Approximately 56% of county residents work within the county, while others commute to nearby Yakima and Hood River counties.

Klickitat County, WA, has about 70% homeownership and 30% rentals. Median home values are around $380,000 (2024), with a 6% year-over-year increase, reflecting a strong market. Typical housing types are single-family homes, with some manufactured homes and rural properties. Popular neighborhoods include Goldendale, White Salmon, and Lyle. Median rents average $1,200 for a two-bedroom unit. Property tax rates average 0.84% of assessed value—lower than the national average—supporting affordable ownership in this scenic rural county along the Columbia River Gorge.

Klickitat County, WA, has approximately 13,800 registered voters as of 2024. It conducts primary, general, and special elections, with recent general election turnout around 66%. Voting is primarily by mail, with drop boxes and one in-person voting center in Goldendale. 2020 presidential results were 58% Republican, 39% Democratic. Key local issues include land use and renewable energy. Elections are administered by the County Auditor. The county leans Republican, but both major parties and several smaller parties participate actively in local campaigns and races.