Whitman County Public RecordsWashington

Whitman County, WA, has 15 public schools, including 5 high schools, and boasts a high educational attainment: approximately 52% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, driven by the presence of Washington State University in Pullman. Public schools average a GreatSchools rating of 7/10, with graduation rates near 88%. The county prioritizes school safety and offers diverse programs such as STEM, advanced placement, and vocational training. Adult education and continuing education opportunities are widely available through the university and local community organizations.

As of early 2024, Whitman County, WA, boasts an employment rate of approximately 63%. Education and health services dominate local industries, representing 49% of jobs—primarily due to Washington State University in Pullman. Major occupation types include management, business, science, and arts (43%). About 68% of workers commute less than 15 minutes; over 80% work within the county, with Pullman as the key employment hub. Manufacturing, retail trade, and accommodation/food services each comprise around 7-10% of employment, while agriculture continues to play a significant but declining role.

Whitman County, WA, features a homeownership rate of roughly 45%, with about 55% of residents renting, primarily due to Washington State University in Pullman. The median home value is around $335,000 (2023), showing steady growth over the past five years. Housing types range from single-family homes to student apartments. Key neighborhoods include Pullman’s College Hill and Downtown, and Colfax’s residential area. Property tax rates average 1.15%, and median gross rent is about $1,050 per month. The real estate market remains competitive, driven by university demand and agricultural industry stability.

Whitman County, WA, had 31,495 registered voters for the November 2022 election. The county administers all-mail elections, occasionally offering limited in-person services at the Pullman Elections Office and select ballot drop-boxes. In the 2020 presidential election, Joe Biden won 50.5% of the vote to Donald Trump’s 45.1%. Key issues include higher education (due to Washington State University), agriculture, and rural infrastructure. The county Auditor oversees administration. Democrats and Republicans are the main parties; the county often leans slightly Democratic in federal elections but remains competitive at the local level.

As of the 2020 Census, Whitman County, WA had a population of 47,973. About 47% are female and 53% male, reflecting the presence of Washington State University. The median age is 25.2 years, with 60% aged 18-34. Racially, 77% are White, 10% Asian, 5% Hispanic or Latino, 3% two or more races, 2% Black or African American, and 1% Native American.

Whitman County, WA, is known for its relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. In 2022, the county reported around 220 total offenses, with property crimes like theft and burglary making up the majority (about 75%). Violent crimes are rare, with fewer than 10 incidents reported annually. The crime rate stands at approximately 8.5 incidents per 1,000 residents. Local law enforcement, including the Whitman County Sheriff’s Office and Pullman Police, emphasize public safety and encourage prompt crime reporting through accessible online and phone systems.