Wasco County Public RecordsOregon

As of 2022, Wasco County, OR had an estimated population of 26,716. The median age is about 43 years. The population is 50.2% female and 49.8% male. Racially, 78% identify as White, 1.1% Black or African American, 2.1% Native American, 1.1% Asian, and 13.6% Hispanic or Latino of any race. Other races and multiracial individuals make up the remainder.

As of 2024, Wasco County, Oregon, has approximately 17,000 registered voters, with about 36% Republican, 32% Democrat, 25% non-affiliated, and the remainder other parties. The County Clerk oversees elections, including primaries, generals, and special elections, conducted mainly via mail-in ballots. In the 2022 general election, voter turnout was about 64%. Major polling drop boxes are in The Dalles, Maupin, and Mosier. Key issues include water rights, land use, and renewable energy. Administrative transparency and accessible voting have been priorities in election reforms, with all parties actively participating in local governance discussions.

Wasco County, OR, hosts around 15 public schools, including The Dalles High School and several elementary/middle schools. About 88% of adults hold a high school diploma, while approximately 20% possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average high school graduation rate is roughly 81%. School safety is a priority, with recent reports indicating low incidence of major security concerns. Adult education is supported via Columbia Gorge Community College. Educational programs include STEM and dual-credit options, with schools scoring an average 5–6/10 on GreatSchools ratings.

As of 2022, Wasco County, OR, had an employment rate of approximately 56.3%. Major industries include health care and social assistance (21.5%), retail trade (11.4%), and agriculture (9.3%). Leading occupation types are office and administrative support (11.6%) and management (9.8%). Around 70% of the workforce commutes by car, with an average commute time of 15.6 minutes. Most residents work within the county; notable employment hubs include The Dalles, which is home to major employers such as Mid-Columbia Medical Center and Google Data Center.

Wasco County, OR, has a homeownership rate of around 66%, with median home values at approximately $328,000 in 2023. Median gross rent is about $1,100 per month. The housing market has seen steady value increases of 5-6% annually since 2020. Housing types are diverse, including single-family homes, apartments, and manufactured housing, with notable neighborhoods in The Dalles and Maupin. Property tax rates average about $13.20 per $1,000 of assessed value. The rental market is tight, reflecting increasing demand and limited inventory.

Wasco County, OR, reports a moderate crime rate compared to statewide averages. In 2022, the overall crime rate was approximately 30 crimes per 1,000 residents. Property crimes dominate, with about 700 reported cases, while violent crime remains low—around 50 incidents annually. The county’s crime clearance rate is 35%, slightly above the state average. Local law enforcement emphasizes community policing and regular public safety updates. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity via the county’s crime tip hotline and online portal, contributing to steady improvements in crime reporting and prevention efforts.