Demographics
As of 2022, Jackson County, OR, has an estimated population of 226,816. The median age is 43.1 years. Females comprise 50.7% and males 49.3% of the population. The racial-ethnic breakdown is 84% White, 2% Asian, 1.5% Black or African American, 1.7% Native American, and 9.7% Hispanic or Latino of any race.
Elections
Jackson County, OR, has roughly 154,000 registered voters as of 2024, split among Democrats (about 38,000), Republicans (approximately 54,000), and non-affiliated/other parties. The county holds primary, general, and special elections, with 100% vote-by-mail and official drop sites (14 locations). Recent turnout averaged 70% in general elections. Notable 2022 issues included wildfire recovery and housing. Results often lean slightly Republican, but some races are competitive. Administration is handled by the Jackson County Clerk. Both Democratic and Republican parties are active, hosting local forums and get-out-the-vote efforts.
Education, Employment and Housing
Jackson County, OR, serves over 18,000 K-12 students across 18 high schools, with a high school graduation rate of approximately 82%. About 24% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The county offers robust adult education programs at Rogue Community College and vocational centers. Average public school test scores are around 45% proficiency in math and 56% in reading. School safety initiatives feature resource officers and anti-bullying programs. Distance learning, STEM, and advanced placement programs enhance the educational environment, supporting diverse student needs and lifelong learning opportunities.
As of early 2024, Jackson County, OR, had an unemployment rate of approximately 4.8%. The leading employment sectors are healthcare and social assistance (16%), retail trade (14%), and accommodation and food services (11%). Top occupations include sales, office support (28%), and healthcare practitioners (12%). About 83% of employed residents commute by car, with a mean travel time of 18 minutes. While most work within the county, roughly 12% commute to nearby Josephine or Klamath counties for employment.
Jackson County, OR, has a homeownership rate of about 62%, with a median home price around $410,000 in 2023, reflecting a moderate upward trend. Median rent is approximately $1,400/month. Housing options range from vintage craftsman homes in Medford’s historic districts to newer developments in Eagle Point and Ashland. Neighborhoods such as East Medford are popular for families, while Ashland attracts retirees and artists. Property taxes average 1.1% of assessed value, with annual taxes on a $400,000 home near $4,400. The region balances affordability with steady appreciation and varied housing types.
County Crime & Safety
Jackson County, OR, experiences a higher crime rate than the national average, particularly in property offenses. According to recent FBI data, the county reported approximately 2,400 property crimes and 230 violent crimes per 100,000 residents in 2022. Medford, the largest city, accounts for a significant portion of incidents, mainly burglary and theft. Local law enforcement encourages community reporting through online and non-emergency options, aiding crime prevention efforts. Overall, while violent crime remains below metropolitan averages, residents are advised to stay vigilant, especially regarding property crime.
Popular names
- Michael Smith
- David Smith
- David Johnson
- Robert Johnson
- Matthew Smith
- Michael Johnson
- Michael Miller
- James Johnson
- Robert Smith
- Michael Williams
- Jennifer Jones
- Maria Rodriguez
- Richard Smith
- Robert Jones
- Robert Lewis
- David Jones
- John Smith
- Michael Jones
- Charles Anderson
- James Williams
- Michael Davis
- Patricia Smith
- Robert Williams
- Christopher Smith
- Gary Smith
- James Brown
- James Smith
- Jason Williams
- Linda Smith
- Michael Martin
- Robert Wilson
- Stephen Moore
- William Miller
- Jennifer Johnson
- John Miller
- Kevin Smith
- Susan Smith
- David Martin
- James Miller
- Jason Smith
- Jennifer Smith
- John Johnson
- Jose Hernandez
- Jose Reyes
- Michael Moore
- Richard Johnson
- Stephanie Smith
- William Martin
- William Smith
- David Wilson
- Jacob Smith
- Jeffrey Smith
- Jose Flores
- Juan Gonzalez
- Kenneth Johnson
- Maria Garcia
- Patricia King
- Richard Anderson
- Robert Miller
- Robert Walker