Custer County Public RecordsIdaho

Custer County, Idaho, has an estimated population of 4,285 (2022). About 50.8% are male and 49.2% female. The median age is 49.6 years, reflecting an older population. Racially, the county is predominantly White (93.5%), with Hispanic or Latino residents making up 5.5%. Other races, including Native American, Asian, and Black, comprise less than 2% combined.

Custer County, Idaho, had 2,666 registered voters in 2022, predominantly Republican (about 85%). Elections include primaries, general, special, and local school board races. In the 2020 presidential election, 77.8% voted Republican and 19% Democratic. Major issues include public lands and water rights. Primary polling locations are in Challis, Mackay, and Stanley. The County Clerk’s office oversees election administration. Both major parties are active, but Republicans dominate county politics numerically and organizationally.

Custer County, ID has 3 public schools, including Challis Jr/Sr High School, serving around 350 K-12 students. The high school graduation rate is approximately 90%, while 23% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools typically score around 5/10 in state assessments. The district offers vocational and dual-credit programs, enhancing post-secondary readiness. School safety measures meet Idaho state standards, with no significant incidents reported in recent years. Adult education options are limited; residents often access programs online or in neighboring counties.

As of 2022, Custer County, ID has an employment rate of approximately 59%. Leading industries include agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting (22%), accommodation and food services (16%), and mining (14%). Most workers are employed in management, business, science, and arts occupations (31%) and service occupations (26%). About 75% of county residents commute alone by car to work, with an average commute time of 17 minutes. Employment is primarily local, but around 22% of workers commute to neighboring counties, mainly Blaine and Butte.

Custer County, ID, has a homeownership rate of about 79%, with median home values near $350,000 as of 2023. Rental opportunities are limited, with median rents around $900 monthly. Housing types are primarily single-family homes and cabins, reflecting the rural, mountainous setting. Notable neighborhoods include Challis and Stanley. The real estate market has seen moderate appreciation (about 5% annually). Property taxes are relatively low, averaging 0.48% of property value, with annual bills often below $2,000. The area is characterized by spacious lots and scenic views, attracting outdoor enthusiasts and retirees.

Custer County, ID, maintains relatively low crime rates compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported just 18 total crimes, including 2 violent crimes and 16 property crimes, resulting in a crime rate of around 5.5 per 1,000 residents. Law enforcement actively promotes public safety through community engagement and prompt reporting systems. The low crime statistics reflect the county’s small population and rural character, making Custer County one of Idaho’s safer areas.