Benewah County Public RecordsIdaho

As of the 2020 Census, Benewah County, Idaho, had a population of 9,530. The median age is 45.5 years. Males comprise 50.5% and females 49.5% of the population. Racially, the county is 81.8% White, 12.9% Native American, 0.6% Black or African American, 0.5% Asian, and 4.2% Hispanic or Latino (of any race). The county has a relatively older and predominantly White population, with a significant Native American presence due to the Coeur d’Alene Reservation.

Benewah County, Idaho, had about 6,800 registered voters in 2022. Elections include federal, state, county, and school board races. In the 2020 presidential election, 75% voted Republican, 22% Democrat. Main polling locations are in St. Maries, Plummer, and Fernwood. Key issues include forestry, tribal relations, and rural development. Elections are administered by the County Clerk’s office, staffed by about 10 employees. The county is strongly Republican, but the Coeur d'Alene Tribe is influential near Plummer, which leans Democratic. Voters can register online, by mail, or on Election Day.

Benewah County, ID, has 7 public schools, including 2 high schools. About 88% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 15% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average standardized test scores in the county are slightly below state averages. School safety is prioritized, with low reported incidents. Educational programs include vocational training and college prep courses. Adult education opportunities are available through community outreach programs.

As of 2022, Benewah County, Idaho, had an employment rate of approximately 53%. The leading industries are health care and social assistance (17.8%), retail trade (13.6%), and manufacturing (12.9%). The most common occupations include office/administrative support (12.9%), sales (10.8%), and management (9.5%). About 77% of residents drive alone to work, with an average commute time of 26.4 minutes; the majority work within the county, but around 22% commute to neighboring counties, primarily Kootenai County.

Benewah County, Idaho, has a homeownership rate of about 78%, with median home values around $246,000 as of 2023. Rental vacancies are relatively low, and the median gross rent is approximately $785 per month. Housing types are predominantly single-family homes, with some mobile homes and apartments. Popular neighborhoods include St. Maries and Plummer. The county has seen steady property value growth of about 7% annually. Property tax rates average 0.72% of assessed home value, making taxes moderate compared to the national average.

Benewah County, Idaho, recorded a crime rate of approximately 1,540 incidents per 100,000 residents in 2023, notably lower than the national average. Violent crime remains rare, with just 14 reported cases, while property crimes totaled 128 incidents, primarily larceny and burglary. The county sheriff’s office actively promotes community policing and transparency, leading to improved reporting and collaboration. Enhanced safety initiatives have contributed to minor year-over-year declines in crime rates, confirming Benewah’s reputation for a generally safe and secure environment.