Demographics

As of 2022, Lincoln County, OR has a population of approximately 50,100. The median age is around 49 years, reflecting a relatively older population. About 88% identify as White, 1.4% as Native American, 0.9% as Asian, and 8.7% as Hispanic or Latino. Females make up roughly 50.2% of the population, and males 49.8%. The county’s demographics highlight a predominantly White, aging community with a small but growing Hispanic presence.

Elections

As of 2024, Lincoln County, OR, has approximately 38,000 registered voters: 34% Democrat, 26% Republican, 33% unaffiliated, and 7% other parties. The county conducts mail-in elections for federal, state, and local offices, measures, and school boards. In the November 2022 general election, voter turnout was about 69%. Voter services and ballot drop sites are managed by the County Clerk, with main polling locations in Newport and Lincoln City. Key issues include housing, coastal environment, and tourism. The Democratic Party has won most recent local races, reflecting county political trends.

County Crime & Safety

Lincoln County, OR, has a crime rate slightly above the national average, with 2023 statistics showing approximately 23.7 crimes per 1,000 residents. Violent crimes remain low, at 2.0 per 1,000, while property crime is more prevalent, at 21.7 per 1,000 people. Law enforcement agencies actively encourage reporting via non-emergency hotlines and online forms, helping maintain high clearance rates. Overall, while some communities experience elevated property crime, Lincoln County is considered relatively safe, with ongoing improvement efforts from local authorities.

Education, Employment and Housing

Lincoln County, OR, serves about 5,200 K-12 students across 5 high schools, 4 middle schools, and 8 elementary schools. Around 86.5% of adults hold a high school diploma, and 19.4% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average high school graduation rate is 76%. School safety initiatives include resource officers and anti-bullying programs, with a 2023 safety rating of 7/10. Educational offerings feature STEM, vocational, and adult education programs, with Oregon Coast Community College supporting lifelong learning and certificate courses for over 2,000 adult students annually.

As of 2023, Lincoln County, OR has an employment rate of approximately 54%. The top industries include accommodation and food services (21%), health care and social assistance (17%), and retail trade (12%). Major occupations are food preparation (13%), office and administrative support (11%), and sales (9%). About 76% of workers commute alone by car, with an average commute time of 18 minutes. Most employment is concentrated in Newport, Lincoln City, and surrounding coastal communities.

Lincoln County, OR, features a median home value of around $420,000 (2024), with homeownership at approximately 65% and median rents near $1,250/month. The housing market has seen a 5% year-over-year price increase, driven by coastal demand. Single-family homes dominate, though condos and mobile homes are available. Popular neighborhoods include Newport, Depoe Bay, and Lincoln City, each offering unique coastal characteristics. Property taxes average 1.05% of assessed value, making the tax on a median-priced home roughly $4,410 annually. Rental vacancies remain low, reflecting steady demand for both primary residences and vacation properties.