Lewis County Public RecordsWashington

As of 2023, Lewis County, WA, has a population of approximately 84,700. The median age is 42. About 50.3% are male and 49.7% female. Racially, the county is 86.5% White, 1.3% Asian, 1.1% Native American, 0.5% Black, and 7.2% identifying as two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents comprise 13.0% of the population.

Lewis County, WA, had 52,385 registered voters for the 2023 general election. The county conducts primary and general elections, with recent turnout at approximately 40%. Polling is primarily vote-by-mail, with drop boxes at 8 locations, including Centralia and Chehalis. Key issues include local taxes and school levies. In 2020, 68% voted Republican, 29% Democrat. The Auditor’s Office manages elections, with parties including Lewis County Republican and Democratic organizations. Integrity and rural representation are frequent topics in voter concerns.

Lewis County, WA, has a moderate crime rate compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported approximately 2,100 total crimes, including about 300 violent crimes and 1,800 property crimes. The crime rate stands at 27.5 incidents per 1,000 residents, with property crime being the most prevalent. Lewis County Sheriff’s Office encourages prompt reporting; clearance rates are near 38% for violent crimes and 15% for property offenses. Community programs aim to improve safety and crime prevention.

Lewis County, WA, has 28 public schools, including 11 high schools, serving around 12,000 students. Approximately 87% of adults hold a high school diploma, but only about 14% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average school ratings range from 5 to 7 out of 10. The county prioritizes school safety, with measures such as resource officers and emergency drills. Adult education is available through Centralia College, offering workforce and GED programs. Specialized educational tracks include STEM and vocational training, aiming to improve graduation rates and college readiness for local students.

As of 2023, Lewis County, WA had an employment rate of approximately 57%, with the labor force numbering around 34,000. Major employment sectors include healthcare and social assistance (14%), retail trade (13%), and manufacturing (11%). The most common occupations are office/administrative support (11%), sales (9%), and production roles (8%). About 75% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 27 minutes. While most residents are employed within the county, roughly 28% travel to neighboring counties such as Thurston and Cowlitz for work.

Lewis County, WA, has a homeownership rate of about 70%, with median home values around $370,000 as of early 2024. The median rent is approximately $1,200. Recent years have seen property values increase by 5-7% annually. Housing types include single-family homes, mobile homes, and some apartments. Centralia and Chehalis are popular neighborhoods. Property tax rates average 1.1% of assessed value. The county offers a blend of rural and small-town living, providing affordable options compared to nearby urban areas.