Jefferson County Public RecordsOregon

As of 2024, Jefferson County, OR has approximately 15,700 registered voters. Elections include local (county commission, city councils), state, and federal races, with turnout typically around 70% in general elections. In 2022, 55% of votes favored Republican candidates, 38% Democrats, and 7% others. Major issues include water rights and agricultural policies. Voters can cast ballots by mail or at three designated drop-box locations, including the county courthouse. Elections are administered by the Jefferson County Clerk’s office. Registered Republicans slightly outnumber Democrats, with a significant proportion unaffiliated or minor party members (roughly 35%).

As of 2023, Jefferson County, OR, has an estimated population of about 25,000. The median age is roughly 39.5 years, with 49% female and 51% male residents. Racially, the county is approximately 62% White, 18% Native American, 16% Hispanic or Latino, 1% Asian, and 3% identifying as two or more races. The population includes a significant Native American community, largely due to the Warm Springs Indian Reservation.

Jefferson County, OR, reported a crime rate of 21.5 per 1,000 residents in 2022, below the Oregon state average of 28.1. Violent crime remains low, with approximately 2.3 incidents per 1,000 people, while property crime is higher at 19.2 per 1,000. Local law enforcement encourages active reporting, leading to a 95% report rate for major crimes. Jefferson County’s crime rates have stayed relatively stable over the past five years, contributing to a perception of moderate safety among residents.

Jefferson County, OR, has 10 public schools, including Madras High School. About 82% of residents have a high school diploma, and around 14% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. High school graduation rates are approximately 76%, below the state average. Average school test scores are 32% in math and 48% in reading. Adult education programs are offered through Central Oregon Community College. School safety reports indicate below-average incidents with ongoing prevention programs. Special educational programs include STEM and Native American initiatives due to the region's significant tribal population.

As of 2023, Jefferson County, OR has an unemployment rate of approximately 4.6%. Major employment sectors include agriculture (16%), education and health services (17%), and retail trade (13%). Leading occupations are in production, office support, and management. Over 82% of workers commute by car, with a mean travel time of 21 minutes; around 27% work outside the county, primarily in Deschutes County. The labor force participation rate is about 57%, reflecting the region’s mix of urban and rural job opportunities.

Jefferson County, OR, has a homeownership rate of around 68%, with median home values at approximately $340,000 as of 2024. The rental market sees median rents near $1,250/month. Housing types are primarily single-family homes, with some manufactured and multi-family units, concentrated in Madras, Culver, and Metolius neighborhoods. Recent years have shown steady property value growth of about 5% annually. Property tax rates average 1.1% of assessed value. The area is known for its rural character and affordability compared to much of Oregon.