Demographics

As of 2023, Boise County, Idaho, has a population of approximately 8,100. The median age is about 48 years, reflecting an older population. Gender distribution is nearly even, with 50.3% male and 49.7% female. Racially, the county is predominantly White (over 94%), with small percentages of Hispanic or Latino (3%), Native American (1%), and others (2%). The population skews older, with around 24% aged 65 and above.

County Crime & Safety

Boise County, ID, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. In 2022, the county reported 45 total crimes, including 6 violent crimes (no homicides) and 39 property crimes. The crime rate stands at approximately 8.9 crimes per 1,000 residents, versus Idaho’s average of 14.3. Law enforcement encourages prompt community reporting and vigilance, contributing to the area’s safety. Overall, Boise County is considered safe, with small, rural communities benefiting from proactive policing and strong neighborhood awareness.

Elections

Boise County, Idaho, had approximately 5,500 registered voters as of 2024. Elections include primaries, general, and local measures, with polling locations in towns like Idaho City and Horseshoe Bend. In the 2022 general election, Republicans won over 75% of county races, while Democrats trailed significantly. The county clerk manages administration, ensuring secure voting. Key issues include land use and wildfire management. Voters may register as Republican, Democrat, or unaffiliated; as of 2024, over 70% are registered Republican, 12% Democrat, and the rest unaffiliated or third-party.

Education, Employment and Housing

Boise County, ID, has 3 public schools serving roughly 500 K-12 students, including Idaho City High School. The county’s high school graduation rate is around 89%, and 23% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. With small class sizes, school safety ratings are above average, and schools participate in STEM and outdoor education programs. Although limited in number, schools maintain a student-teacher ratio of about 13:1. Adult education is available via nearby Boise institutions. Overall, state test proficiency scores are slightly below the Idaho state average, but community support for education is strong.

As of early 2024, Boise County, ID, has an employment rate near 57%. The leading industries are educational services, health care, and social assistance (22%), followed by arts, entertainment, recreation, accommodation, and food services (18%). Most common occupations include management and business (25%) and service occupations (21%). About 75% of workers commute outside the county, primarily to Ada County (including Boise city). Average commute time is around 39 minutes, reflecting the county’s rural character and its role as a residential area for the Boise metro workforce.

Boise County, ID, has a homeownership rate of about 83%, with median home values near $412,000 as of 2023. Rental options are limited, with median rents around $1,400 per month. The county features primarily single-family homes, cabins, and rural properties, especially in communities like Idaho City, Horseshoe Bend, and Garden Valley. Property values have risen approximately 10% over the past year. The average property tax rate is 0.68%, and there are no local income taxes. Neighborhoods offer a mix of rural and small-town atmospheres, with access to outdoor recreation.