Education, Employment and Housing

Bingham County, ID, has around 24 public schools, including 5 high schools. About 87% of adults have a high school diploma, while 16% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher (U.S. Census Bureau). Average statewide test scores typically fall slightly below Idaho’s mean. School safety is prioritized, with low reported incident rates. Local schools offer career and technical education, special education, and dual-credit college courses. Adult education is available through partnerships with Idaho universities and technical colleges.

As of 2022, Bingham County, ID, has an employment rate of approximately 60%. The leading industries are healthcare and social assistance (14.2%), manufacturing (13.6%), and agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting (12.7%). Most residents work in office and administrative support (12%), management (10.7%), and production (10%). About 82% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 19 minutes. While over 61% work within the county, a significant number commute to neighboring Idaho Falls and Pocatello for employment opportunities.

Bingham County, Idaho, has a homeownership rate of approximately 77%, with median home values near $265,000 as of 2023. The median gross rent is about $830 monthly. Housing mainly consists of single-family homes, with some multi-family units. Popular neighborhoods include Blackfoot and Shelley. Property values have shown steady annual growth of 6-8% over recent years. Property tax rates average 0.7% of assessed value. The housing market remains competitive and affordable compared to national levels, attracting families and retirees seeking a small-town atmosphere and stable investment opportunities.

County Crime & Safety

Bingham County, ID reports relatively low crime rates compared to national averages, with a violent crime rate of 1.9 incidents per 1,000 residents and property crime at 10.7 per 1,000, based on 2023 statistics. The sheriff’s office and local police encourage proactive community reporting, resulting in clearance rates above 25%. Most incidents involve theft and minor assaults, while serious crimes remain rare. Overall, residents typically rate Bingham County as safe, although continued vigilance and timely reporting help maintain local safety standards.

Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Bingham County, Idaho, had a population of 47,992. About 30% were under 18, and 14% were 65 or older. The gender split was roughly equal, with 50.2% male and 49.8% female. The racial/ethnic makeup was 75.1% White, 15.7% Hispanic or Latino, 6.7% Native American, 0.7% Asian, 0.4% Black, and 1.4% two or more races.

Elections

Bingham County, Idaho, has over 24,000 registered voters as of 2024. Voters participate in primary, general, and local elections, with polling locations spread across Blackfoot, Shelley, and other towns. In the 2020 presidential election, 74% voted Republican, 22% Democrat. The County Clerk’s office oversees election administration, ensuring compliance and accessibility. Recent ballot issues included school levies and local bond measures. Both Republican and Democratic parties are active, though the county historically leans heavily Republican. Voter turnout typically ranges from 65% to 75% in general elections.