Garfield County

As of the 2020 census, Garfield County in Washington has a population of approximately 2,286 people. The population density is around 3.2 people per square mile. The racial makeup includes roughly 95.0% White, 1.0% Native American, 0.5% Asian, and 3.5% Hispanic or Latino of any race. The median age is about 51.5 years, with 25.4% of residents 65 years or older. The median household income is approximately $50,833, and about 7.6% of the population is below the poverty line.

As of the latest data, Garfield County, WA has a median home value of approximately $172,000. The homeownership rate is around 74%, reflecting a strong owner-occupied housing market. There are about 955 housing units in the county. The rental market is limited, with a median gross rent of about $650 per month. In recent years, property values have seen modest increases, indicating a stable housing market with gradual appreciation.

Garfield County, Washington, is a small, rural county with a population of approximately 2,200 people. The county seat is Pomeroy.

Key Election Information:

• Voter Turnout: Typically around 70% in presidential elections, lower in off-year elections.
• Primary Elections: Held in August.
• General Elections: Held in November.

Recent Candidates (2022 General Election):

• County Commissioner Position #1: Bob Johnson (Incumbent) vs. Mary Margaret Wayland
• County Commissioner Position #2: Jim Nelson (Incumbent) vs. Laura Wuthering
• Sheriff: Alan Gormley (Incumbent) vs. Travis West
• Assessor: Jill Andrews (Unopposed)
• Auditor: Diane Cooper (Incumbent) vs. Mark Stevens
• Treasurer: Annette Miller (Unopposed)
• Coroner: Greg Hansen (Unopposed)
• Clerk: Susan Messerman (Unopposed)

Voters in Garfield County also participate in state and federal elections, such as for governor, U.S. Senate, and Congress, aligning with the wider

Garfield County, WA, is a small, predominantly rural area. As of the most recent data, approximately 91% of Garfield County residents possess at least a high school diploma, compared to the national average of around 88%, and the state average of approximately 91%. However, when it comes to higher education, about 20% of Garfield County's population holds a bachelor's degree or higher. This is lower than both the national average of about 33.1% and the Washington State average of roughly 36.7%. This disparity suggests that while high school education levels are comparable or slightly higher, the rate of higher education attainment in Garfield County lags behind both state and national figures.

Garfield County, WA, has a relatively small labor market with approximately 1,000 individuals employed. Key industries include agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting, employing about 30% of the workforce, significantly above the national average of 1.3%. Public administration is also prominent, comprising around 20% of jobs, higher than the state average of 15%. Educational services, healthcare, and social assistance account for about 15% of employment, compared to the national average of 23%. Retail trade employs around 10%, lower than the national average of 11%. Overall, the county’s economy is more focused on agriculture and public administration compared to broader state and national trends.

Garfield County, WA, has an average household income of approximately $52,000 per year. When compared to state and national averages, it falls below both. The average household income in Washington state is about $80,000, while the national average is approximately $68,700.

These figures highlight the income disparity between Garfield County and broader averages. Statewide, Washington performs better economically, likely due to thriving urban centers like Seattle. On the national level, Garfield County's income still lags, reflecting its rural economic setting.

Garfield County, Washington, has one of the lower crime rates in the state. In 2022, the total crime rate was 15.3 per 1,000 residents. The breakdown is as follows:

Violent crimes include aggravated assault, robbery, and sexual assault, while property crimes encompass burglary, larceny, and motor vehicle theft. The overall crime rate in Garfield County is significantly lower than the national average, making it a relatively safe place to live.