Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Bannock County, Idaho had a population of approximately 87,018. The median age was about 32.4 years, with 50.6% male and 49.4% female residents. Racially, the county was 86.4% White, 7.2% Hispanic or Latino, 2.2% Native American, 1.5% Asian, and 0.8% Black or African American, with 2.3% identifying as two or more races, reflecting moderate racial diversity.

Education, Employment and Housing

Bannock County, ID, hosts over 30 public schools, including 6 high schools. About 91% of adults hold a high school diploma, and 28% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. The Pocatello/Chubbuck School District average graduation rate is 84%. School safety initiatives include resource officers and anti-bullying programs. Students have access to advanced placement, special education, and vocational programs. Idaho State University in Pocatello offers extensive adult and continuing education. Average school ratings range from 5-7/10 (GreatSchools), reflecting moderate academic performance.

As of 2022, Bannock County, ID, had an employment rate of approximately 59.6%. Major industries include Health Care & Social Assistance (23%), Retail Trade (12%), and Educational Services (10%). The predominant occupation types are office & administrative support (14%) and sales & related occupations (10%). Around 83% of workers commute by car, with a mean travel time of 17.4 minutes. Most employment is centered in Pocatello, the largest city. About 70% of employed residents work within the county, while the remaining 30% commute outside for work.

Bannock County, ID, has a homeownership rate of about 67%, with median property values at approximately $275,000 in 2024. The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is around $1,000 per month. Housing consists mainly of single-family homes, with some apartments and townhouses, especially in Pocatello neighborhoods like Indian Hills and Alameda. The market has seen home prices rise roughly 5% year-over-year. Property taxes average 1.15% of assessed value. The local housing stock is diverse, catering to families, students (due to Idaho State University), and professionals.

Elections

Bannock County, Idaho, had 52,340 registered voters as of 2022. The county conducts primary, general, and special elections. In the 2020 presidential election, 59% voted Republican and 37% Democrat. There are 32 polling locations throughout the county. Key local issues include education funding and land use. Elections are administered by the Bannock County Clerk’s Office. The major parties are Republican and Democratic, with unaffiliated voters comprising about 18% of registrants. Voter turnout in recent general elections averaged around 73%.

County Crime & Safety

Bannock County, ID, has a crime rate of approximately 26.7 per 1,000 residents, with property crime being more prevalent than violent crime. In 2022, there were 705 reported property crimes and 122 violent crimes according to FBI data. The county’s crime rate is slightly below the national average. Law enforcement actively encourages community reporting and transparency, which has led to a 5% decrease in crime over the past year. Public safety initiatives and neighborhood watch programs continue to positively impact local safety.