County Crime & Safety

Gilliam County, OR, is known for its low crime rates compared to state and national averages. In recent years, the area reported fewer than 10 property crimes and virtually no violent crimes annually, according to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) data. The crime rate stands at approximately 4.5 incidents per 1,000 residents, making it one of Oregon's safest counties. Local law enforcement emphasizes swift reporting and community policing, contributing to Gilliam County’s reputation for safety and minimal criminal activity.

Education, Employment and Housing

Gilliam County, OR has a small educational system, with 2 K-12 schools: Condon and Arlington. The high school graduation rate is approximately 92%, but only about 19% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety levels are high, with minimal reported incidents annually. Comprehensive educational programs include advanced placement and vocational courses. Average school ratings are around 6/10, reflecting solid but not exceptional performance. Adult learning opportunities are limited locally, though residents can access distance education through regional community colleges.

As of 2022, Gilliam County, Oregon, had an employment rate of about 62% with approximately 900 residents in the labor force. Major industries include agriculture (28%), education and health services (16%), and public administration (15%). The most common occupations are management (19%), farming, fishing, and forestry (17%), and education-related roles (13%). Around 78% of workers commute by car, with a mean travel time of 16 minutes, and about 52% work within the county while the remainder commute to Wasco and Morrow counties.

Gilliam County, OR, has a homeownership rate of about 73%. Median home values are around $183,000, with median rents near $817. The housing market is relatively stable, seeing modest annual appreciation (~3%). Single-family homes dominate, while apartments and multifamily units are limited. The main communities—Condon and Arlington—offer quiet neighborhoods with rural appeal. Property taxes average 1.1% of assessed value, lower than the national average. Rental inventory is limited, leading to moderate demand for available units.

Elections

Gilliam County, Oregon, had 1,311 registered voters in the November 2022 election, with 51% Republican, 23% Democrat, and 22% nonaffiliated. The county holds general, primary, and special elections, using both mail-in and an in-person polling site at the county courthouse in Condon. In recent elections, Republicans won most races; in 2020, Trump received 69% and Biden 27%. Local issues often center on agriculture, wind energy, and rural services. Elections are administered by the County Clerk’s office, ensuring compliance with state and federal laws. Major parties represented include Republican, Democratic, and Independent.

Demographics

Gilliam County, Oregon, had an estimated population of 1,973 in 2023. The median age is about 48 years, with 22% under 18 and 28% aged 65 or older. The county’s population is roughly 52% male and 48% female. Racially, the population is 91% White, 5% Hispanic or Latino, 2% Native American, and 2% identifying as other races or multiracial. The community is predominantly non-Hispanic White, with small but present minority groups.