Education, Employment and Housing

Walla Walla County, WA, features 26 public schools, including 4 high schools and 2 alternative education centers. Approximately 23.6% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School ratings average 6/10 (GreatSchools), and graduation rates top 80%. The county offers adult education through Walla Walla Community College, serving over 2,700 learners annually. School safety initiatives include school resource officers and anti-bullying programs. Specialized educational programs in STEM, AVID, and vocational training are available to support diverse learner needs.

As of 2023, Walla Walla County, WA, had an unemployment rate of approximately 4.3%. Key industries include agriculture, employing around 18% of workers, followed by education and healthcare at 22%, and retail trade at 11%. Major occupation types are management, sales, and office roles. About 79% of residents commute by car, with an average commute time of 16 minutes. Most employment is concentrated in Walla Walla city, with some residents commuting to nearby towns such as College Place and Dayton for work.

Walla Walla County, WA, has a homeownership rate of about 62%, with a median home value of ~$341,000 as of 2024. The median rent is around $1,200/month. Recent property value trends show a 4% annual increase. Housing types include historic Craftsman homes, modern single-family houses, and apartments, with popular neighborhoods like College Place, Downtown Walla Walla, and Blue Ridge. Property taxes average 1.14% of assessed value. The market remains competitive, driven by local wine industry growth and a vibrant community atmosphere.

Demographics

As of 2023, Walla Walla County, WA, has a population of approximately 62,200. The median age is 38.7 years, with 50.2% female and 49.8% male residents. Racially, the population is 78.6% White, 16.7% Hispanic or Latino, 2.2% Asian, 1.1% Black or African American, 1.5% Native American, and 2.7% identifying as two or more races, reflecting moderate diversity within the county.

County Crime & Safety

Walla Walla County, WA, reported a total crime rate of approximately 2,453 incidents per 100,000 residents in 2023, below the national average. Violent crimes, including assault and robbery, accounted for about 290 cases, while property crimes such as burglary and theft reached around 2,030 cases. The Sheriff's Office emphasizes timely reporting, and more than 90% of local crimes are resolved or under investigation. Overall, Walla Walla County is considered relatively safe compared to similar-sized counties in Washington, with effective law enforcement and community engagement contributing to declining crime trends.

Elections

Walla Walla County, WA, had 37,684 registered voters for the November 2023 election. It conducts general, primary, and special elections, with recent turnout around 39%. Results in 2020 showed 56% for GOP and 41% for Democrats in the presidential race. Key issues include agriculture, education, and water rights. Polling is largely vote-by-mail, with a few drop-boxes and a voting center at 315 W. Main St. Elections are administered by the County Auditor’s Office. Party registration is not required, but ballots reflect diverse affiliations, primarily Republican and Democratic.