Malheur County Public RecordsOregon

Malheur County, OR, experiences a higher crime rate than the state average, with a property crime rate of 32.5 per 1,000 residents and a violent crime rate of 4.8 per 1,000 (2022 data). The largest city, Ontario, reports most incidents. While statewide Oregon’s violent crime rate is around 3.5 per 1,000, Malheur exceeds this. Efforts from the Sheriff’s Office and local police prioritize timely reporting and community outreach to improve safety. Residents are encouraged to promptly report suspicious activity to ensure accurate statistics and effective response.

Malheur County, OR, has around 25 public schools, with several high schools including Ontario High. About 78% of adults have a high school diploma, while only 14% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average public school test scores are below the state average, with a typical rating of 3-5/10 (GreatSchools). School safety is generally rated average, and programs include agricultural and technical education. Adult education options are limited but available through Treasure Valley Community College.

Malheur County, Oregon, had an unemployment rate of approximately 5.3% in 2023. Key employment sectors are agriculture (23%), health care and social assistance (15%), and retail trade (11%). Major occupations include production, office/administrative support, and sales. About 78% of workers commute by car, with an average travel time of 15 minutes; 33% work outside the county, primarily in Idaho (notably Ontario and Boise). The civilian labor force is around 13,800 people, supporting the county’s mix of rural and cross-state economic activity.

Malheur County, OR, has a homeownership rate of about 66%, with median home values around $220,000 as of 2023. The median rent is approximately $900 per month. Housing consists mainly of single-family homes and some multi-family units, with residential areas centered in Ontario and Vale neighborhoods. Property values have risen modestly, with a 5% annual increase since 2021. Property taxes average 1.08% of home value, lower than national averages. The housing market remains affordable compared to state averages, attracting both buyers and renters seeking small-town living and reasonable costs.

As of 2022, Malheur County, Oregon, had a population of approximately 31,255. The median age is about 37.6 years, with 52% male and 48% female, partly due to a large correctional facility. Racially, around 70% identify as White, 2% as African American, and 2% as Native American. Hispanic or Latino residents comprise about 37% of the population, making it one of Oregon's most diverse counties.

Malheur County, OR, has around 16,000 registered voters (as of 2024), with registrations split among Republicans (about 56%), Democrats (16%), and non-affiliated/others (28%). The county holds primary, general, and special elections, with results consistently favoring Republican candidates—Donald Trump received 72% of the county’s vote in 2020. There are roughly 18 polling locations, and issues often center on agriculture, water rights, and land use. Elections are administered by the Malheur County Clerk’s office, with Oregon’s universal vote-by-mail system ensuring broad access to ballots while maintaining strict verification.