Demographics

Elmore County, Idaho, has a population of about 28,790 (2023 estimate). The age distribution is approximately 23% under 18, 59% ages 18-64, and 18% 65 or older. The gender split is nearly even, with 50.8% male and 49.2% female. Racially, it is 76% White, 3% Black or African American, 1.6% Native American, 2.1% Asian, and about 13% from other races. Hispanic or Latino residents make up roughly 19% of the population.

Elections

Elmore County, Idaho, had 13,783 registered voters as of 2022. The county conducts primary, general, and special elections. In the 2020 presidential election, 74% voted Republican and 23% Democrat. Polling locations include the Elmore County Courthouse and local schools. Key election issues involve education funding and water rights. Elections are managed by the Elmore County Clerk’s Office. Major parties include the Republican and Democratic parties, with Republicans dominating recent results. Early voting and absentee ballots are available to all eligible voters.

Education, Employment and Housing

Elmore County, ID, hosts around 17 public schools, including 2 high schools. Approximately 89% of adults have a high school diploma, while 18% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Test scores in the county slightly trail state averages, with Mountain Home High School scoring 40-50% proficiency in English and Math. School safety is rated average, with periodic improvements. The district offers career-technical and adult education programs, enhancing workforce readiness. Overall, educational opportunities are growing, supporting lifelong learning.

As of 2023, Elmore County, ID, has an employment rate of approximately 64%. Major industries include Government (notably Mountain Home Air Force Base) employing 31%, followed by Retail Trade (12%), Health Care (10%), and Agriculture (8%). Leading occupations are in office/administrative (23%) and management/business (17%). About 77% of workers commute by car, averaging a 17-minute commute time; 67% work within the county, while others commute to Ada and Canyon counties, including Boise. Unemployment rate stands at 3.3%.

Elmore County, Idaho, features a homeownership rate of about 67%, with median home values around $260,000 as of 2023. The median monthly rent is roughly $950. The housing stock is dominated by single-family homes, with some apartments and mobile homes mixed in. Popular neighborhoods include Mountain Home North and Glenns Ferry. Recent years have seen moderate property value growth of approximately 5% annually. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging 0.73% of property value. This combination of affordability and variety attracts both military and civilian residents, reflecting the county’s close ties to Mountain Home Air Force Base.

County Crime & Safety

Elmore County, ID, has a moderate crime rate compared to state averages, with recent FBI data (2022) reporting approximately 220 total crimes per year, including 25 violent crimes and 195 property crimes. The violent crime rate stands at around 2.1 per 1,000 residents, while property crime is about 16.5 per 1,000. Local law enforcement emphasizes community policing and swift reporting, with most crimes quickly addressed. Emergency services are available, and residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity, contributing to a generally safe environment.