Josephine County Public RecordsOregon

As of the 2020 Census, Josephine County, Oregon, had a population of 88,090. The median age was 48.9 years, with 22% aged 65 and over. Females comprised 51.1%, while males were 48.9%. The racial and ethnic makeup was 89% White, 1.1% Native American, 1% Asian, 0.6% Black or African American, and 0.2% Pacific Islander; 6.2% identified as two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents made up 7.5% of the population.

As of 2024, Josephine County, Oregon had approximately 65,000 registered voters: 41% Republican, 29% non-affiliated, 25% Democrat, and 5% other parties. The county conducts primary, general, and special elections by mail; in 2022’s general election, 61% turnout was recorded. Polling locations are limited, with most voters utilizing official drop boxes or mail. Recent issues include law enforcement funding and ballot measures on cannabis taxation. Elections are overseen by the Josephine County Clerk’s Office. Republicans have historically dominated local results, with 67% voting for GOP candidates in the 2020 Presidential election.

Josephine County, OR, has 7 public high schools and about 25 public schools total, with a high school graduation rate around 73%. Only 18% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, below the state average. The county's schools have average test scores, with GreatSchools ratings often between 4 and 6 out of 10. Programs include technical and career education, but limited advanced placement options. Safety incidents are relatively low, with about 0.6 incidents per 100 students. Adult education is available through Rogue Community College, which serves approximately 8,000 students countywide.

As of 2023, Josephine County, OR has an unemployment rate of approximately 5.9%. The largest employment sectors are health care and social assistance (17%), retail trade (15%), and accommodation/food services (10%). Major occupation types include office and administrative support (11%) and sales (10%). About 81% of employed residents commute by car, with an average commute time of 21 minutes. Most work locally, while roughly 20% commute to neighboring Jackson County, including Medford.

Josephine County, Oregon, has a homeownership rate of about 70%, with the median home value around $365,000 as of early 2024. The median rent is approximately $1,200 per month. The market has seen year-over-year price increases of about 4%. Housing types range from single-family homes to mobile homes and some small multi-family units. Notable neighborhoods include Grants Pass, Merlin, and Cave Junction. Property tax rates average 1.0% of assessed value, with annual taxes on a median home about $3,650. The area remains popular for retirees and families seeking affordable rural living.

Josephine County, OR, has a crime rate above the state average, with 2022 data showing a violent crime rate of 4.0 per 1,000 residents, surpassing Oregon’s rate of 2.8. Property crime is also high at 34.8 per 1,000 residents, compared to the state average of 25.6. The sheriff’s office regularly reports increased calls for service, with theft, burglary, and drug-related incidents being most common. Although local law enforcement faces staffing shortages, ongoing community safety efforts continue.