Demographics

As of 2023, Multnomah County, OR, has an estimated population of 815,000. The median age is about 37 years. Gender distribution is roughly equal, with 50.3% female and 49.7% male. Racially, the county is 68% White, 7% Black or African American, 9% Asian, and 12% Hispanic or Latino (of any race), with 4% identifying as two or more races. This reflects the county’s diverse demographic composition.

Elections

Multnomah County, Oregon, had 561,740 registered voters for the November 2022 election, with 48% Democratic, 10% Republican, and 36% non-affiliated. The county conducts mail-in elections for federal, state, and local offices, plus measures. In 2022, turnout was 67%. Election results are posted online, with Democrats typically winning; for example, 73% supported the 2020 presidential Democratic candidate. Polling offices mainly serve ballot drop-off. Key issues include housing, homelessness, and transportation. Elections are administered by the Multnomah County Elections Division, known for efficiency and transparency, with ongoing discussions on improving access and combating misinformation.

County Crime & Safety

Multnomah County, OR, encompassing Portland, reported a violent crime rate of 542.7 per 100,000 residents in 2022, above the national average of 380. Property crime remains a significant issue, with 4,572 incidents per 100,000 people. While overall crime rates dropped 6% from 2021, car thefts rose by 19%. The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office and Portland Police Bureau encourage community reporting and utilize online crime mapping for public awareness, aiming to improve safety through increased patrols and outreach.

Education, Employment and Housing

Multnomah County, OR boasts over 80 public high schools, with a high school graduation rate of approximately 77%. About 47% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher. School safety scores rank above average, with PPS having an 8/10 safety rating. The district offers diverse programs including STEM, dual-language immersion, and robust Advanced Placement classes. Adult education is supported by Portland Community College, serving over 50,000 students annually.

As of 2023, Multnomah County, OR, had an employment rate of approximately 63%. Key industries include healthcare (13%), professional and business services (15%), education (11%), and retail (10%). Occupationally, 60% are in management, business, science, and arts occupations. Most workers (56%) commute alone by car, while 10% use public transportation. About 70% work within the county, with Portland being the primary employment hub.

Multnomah County, OR, features a homeownership rate of around 52%, with median home values near $500,000 as of 2024. Median monthly rent is approximately $1,550. Property values have risen about 3% year-over-year. Housing types range from Craftsman single-family homes to modern apartments, especially in Portland neighborhoods like Laurelhurst and Sellwood-Moreland. Property tax rates average 1.16%, with an annual tax on a $500,000 home around $5,800. Popular rental markets include Pearl District and Alberta Arts.