Demographics

As of 2022, Yamhill County, OR, has an estimated population of 108,239. The median age is 40.6 years, with 50.2% female and 49.8% male. Racially, 81.7% are White, 14.6% Hispanic or Latino, 2.5% Asian, 1.3% Native American, 0.6% Black or African American, and 3.9% identify as two or more races.

Elections

Yamhill County, Oregon, has approximately 74,000 registered voters as of 2024. The county holds primary, general, and special elections, managed by the County Clerk’s office. In the November 2022 general election, turnout was about 68%. Major parties include Democratic, Republican, and non-affiliated voters (about 27,000 each for Democrats and Republicans, 15,000 non-affiliated). Voting is by mail, with official drop sites in 11 locations. Key issues include land use, housing, and education. Election results and information are published on the county’s website, and the process is overseen by a bipartisan board to ensure transparency and accuracy.

Education, Employment and Housing

Yamhill County, OR, has 35 public schools, including 10 high schools. Approximately 89% of adults have a high school diploma or higher, and 27% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The county's average public school rating is 6/10, with robust career and technical education programs. School safety is prioritized, with incidents below the state average. Adult education is supported by programs at Chemeketa Community College’s Yamhill Valley campus and local initiatives.

As of 2023, Yamhill County, OR, has an unemployment rate of approximately 3.7%. Key industries include manufacturing (17%), health care and social assistance (16%), and agriculture (notably wine production). The most common occupations are in production (12%), office and administrative support (11%), and sales (10%). About 81% of workers commute by car, with a mean travel time of 23 minutes; around 37% work outside the county, mostly commuting to Washington and Multnomah Counties. The labor force participation rate is about 62%.

Yamhill County, OR, has a homeownership rate of about 68%, with a median home value near $440,000 as of early 2024. Median gross rent is around $1,250. Popular housing types include single-family homes and some multifamily units, particularly in communities like McMinnville and Newberg. Property values have risen by approximately 6% year-over-year. Neighborhoods vary from rural farmland to suburban pockets. Property tax rates average roughly 1.14% of assessed value. Steady demand, fueled by proximity to Portland and local wineries, continues to shape the market.

County Crime & Safety

Yamhill County, OR, has a moderate crime rate compared to state averages. In 2022, the violent crime rate was approximately 1.9 per 1,000 residents, while property crime stood at 22.6 per 1,000. The sheriff’s office regularly reports incidents, emphasizing community awareness and prevention. Overall, crime rates in Yamhill County are lower than the national average, with proactive policing and neighborhood programs contributing to public safety. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity through local hotlines and online platforms, supporting ongoing law enforcement efforts to reduce crime.