Bear Lake County Public RecordsIdaho

As of 2023, Bear Lake County, Idaho has a population of approximately 6,500. The median age is around 42 years. About 51% are male and 49% female. The racial makeup is predominantly White (over 94%), with small proportions of Hispanic or Latino (around 4%), Native American (0.6%), and other races (1.4%). The population is largely non-Hispanic, with limited ethnic diversity, reflecting rural Idahoan demographics.

Bear Lake County, Idaho, maintains a notably low crime rate compared to state and national averages. In 2022, the county reported only 18 total crimes, including 1 violent crime and 17 property crimes, according to Idaho State Police data. This results in a crime rate of just 4.2 per 1,000 residents. Law enforcement emphasizes community engagement and prompt incident reporting. Bear Lake County’s focused policing and active neighborhood watch contribute to its reputation as a safe destination for residents and visitors alike.

Bear Lake County, Idaho, had 3,235 registered voters as of 2022, predominantly Republican (over 80%). The county conducts primary, general, and local elections, with the courthouse in Paris and local schools as main polling locations. In the 2020 presidential election, Donald Trump received 87% of the vote, while Joe Biden got 10%. Local issues focus on land use and water rights. Elections are managed by the Bear Lake County Clerk’s office. Major parties are Republican and Democratic, with Libertarians present. Turnout in general elections typically exceeds 70%.

Bear Lake County, Idaho, hosts 6 public schools, including Bear Lake High School, serving approximately 1,100 students K-12. About 91% of adults have a high school diploma, while 24% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety ranks well, with low rates of reported incidents. The district’s average test scores are slightly below the state average, but robust programs in STEM and vocational education are offered. Adult education opportunities, including GED and professional courses, are available through local partnerships.

Bear Lake County, Idaho, had an employment rate of approximately 56.8% in 2022. The largest industries are health care and social assistance (12.5%), retail trade (11.1%), and educational services (10.8%). Major occupation types include office and administrative support (12.4%) and management (10.5%). About 83% of residents commute by car, with an average commute time of 17.3 minutes; roughly 77% work within the county, while the remainder commute to adjacent counties, notably Caribou and Bannock. The unemployment rate averaged 2.7% in 2022.

Bear Lake County, Idaho, boasts a homeownership rate of about 77%, with median home values around $310,000 as of 2023, reflecting a 5% annual increase. Rentals are limited, with median rents near $900/month. Housing consists mostly of single-family homes, cabins, and vacation properties, especially near Bear Lake itself. Popular neighborhoods include Montpelier and Fish Haven. Property taxes average 0.67% of assessed home value, lower than the national average. The county’s scenic setting and recreational appeal drive both seasonal and permanent residence demand, contributing to upward pressure on property values.