Kittitas County

As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Kittitas County, WA has a population of approximately 44,337. The racial composition is 87.8% White, 1.0% Black or African American, 1.6% Native American, 2.0% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 3.3% from other races, and 4.1% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race make up 8.8% of the population. The median household income is around $51,739. The population density stands at about 16 people per square mile across its 2,297 square miles. The largest city and county seat is Ellensburg.

As of 2023, Kittitas County, WA has a median home price of approximately $450,000. The median rent for a 2-bedroom apartment stands around $1,500 per month. Homeownership rate is estimated at 60%, while the vacancy rate hovers near 7%. The average household size is about 2.4 people. Property taxes in the area average 1% of the home value annually. Housing demand has been growing, partly driven by the proximity to Seattle and outdoor recreational opportunities.

In Kittitas County, WA, election information for local offices, the county auditor conducts elections, which may include federal, state, and local positions. For instance, the 2020 General Election results included presidential, congressional, state legislative, and county races. Key numerical data included a 77.5% voter turnout, with 20,264 ballots cast out of 26,144 registered voters.

Notable candidates for recent elections included:

• U.S. House of Representatives: Rep. Kim Schrier (D) and Jesse Jensen (R)
• State Legislature: Sen. Judy Warnick (R) for the 13th District and Rep. Tom Dent (R)
• Local Offices: County Commissioner Cory Wright, Assessor Melissa McCarthy, Sheriff Clay Myers

For the most accurate and current information, it's recommended to consult the Kittitas County Auditor’s office or their official website.

Kittitas County, WA, has a moderately educated population when compared to state and national averages. According to U.S. Census Bureau data:

• High school graduates (age 25+): Approximately 93.2%

  • U.S. average: 88.5%
  • Washington state average: 92.0%

• Bachelor's degree or higher (age 25+): Approximately 36.2%

  • U.S. average: 32.1%
  • Washington state average: 37.3%

Kittitas County hosts Central Washington University, which significantly influences its educational profile. The county's high school graduation rate surpasses both national and state averages, indicating a strong foundation in secondary education. Its rate of bachelor's degrees or higher is slightly below the state average but above the national average, reflecting a relatively well-educated population.

As of recent data, Kittitas County, WA, had an unemployment rate of around 7.4%, which is higher than the Washington state average of 4.6% and the national average of 3.6%.

Top industries in Kittitas County include education, government, and healthcare, significantly influenced by Central Washington University in Ellensburg. Additionally, agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting are other crucial sectors, reflecting the county's rural economy. Retail trade and accommodation and food services also contribute notably due to tourism and local community needs.

Compared to state and national averages, the county has a higher concentration in education services and a lower presence in sectors like technology and manufacturing, which are more prominent in larger urban areas of Washington state and nationwide.

This disparity highlights the region's economic focus on education and natural resources rather than the heavy technologies and industrial bases found elsewhere.

As of the latest available data, Kittitas County, WA, has an average household income of approximately $74,000. In comparison, the state of Washington's average household income is around $93,000. Nationally, the average household income hovers near $87,000. Here is a brief table summarizing the comparison:

Kittitas County's income level is lower than both the state and national averages, highlighting economic disparities within the region.

As of the most recent data, Kittitas County, WA reports a relatively low crime rate. The crime rate stands at approximately 18.7 per 1,000 residents annually. Property crime is notably more prevalent than violent crime.

Below is a simplified table showing types of crimes and their occurrences per 1,000 residents:

These statistics reflect the reported incidents and might not capture all cases, especially minor offenses or unreported crimes. Law enforcement and community initiatives are focused on maintaining the county’s overall safety.