Demographics

As of 2023, Franklin County, Idaho has a population of approximately 14,000. The median age is about 33 years. About 50.5% are male and 49.5% female. The county is predominantly White (over 90%), with Hispanic or Latino residents comprising around 7% of the population, and small percentages of Native American, Asian, and other races. The population has shown steady growth in recent years, reflecting the county’s family-oriented communities.

Elections

Franklin County, Idaho has approximately 7,000 registered voters as of 2024, predominantly Republican (over 80%). The county holds primary, general, and local elections, with 2022 general results showing Republican candidates winning over 85% of the vote countywide. Voting occurs at several designated polling locations, including the Franklin County Courthouse. Common local issues include water rights and agricultural policies. The Franklin County Clerk administers elections, ensuring compliance with Idaho law. Democrats and third parties hold minimal presence, together receiving under 10% of votes in recent contests. Voter turnout typically averages 65% in presidential election years.

Education, Employment and Housing

Franklin County, ID, has around 8 public schools, including West Side High School and Preston High School. About 90% of adults have a high school diploma, while around 21% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The county’s schools average a GreatSchools rating of 6/10. Educational programs include career and technical education, as well as dual credit courses. School safety measures are in place, with less than 1% of reported incidents in recent years. Adult education opportunities are available through local community colleges and online programs.

Franklin County, Idaho, has an employment rate of approximately 59%. Key industries include agriculture (19%), education and health services (21%), and manufacturing (14%). Major occupational groups are office/administrative support (12%), management/business (18%), and production/transportation (15%). About 69% of residents commute outside their home city for work, primarily to Cache County, Utah. The average commute time is 23 minutes.

Franklin County, ID, has a homeownership rate of about 81%, with median home values near $315,000 in 2023—a rise of roughly 3% year-over-year. Median gross rent is approximately $790. The housing stock consists mainly of single-family homes, with some duplexes and older farmhouses, especially in Preston and smaller communities like Dayton. Property taxes average 0.6% of assessed home value. Neighborhoods offer rural and small-town settings, appealing to families and retirees. The real estate market remains competitive due to limited inventory and steady population growth.

County Crime & Safety

Franklin County, ID, maintains a lower crime rate compared to the national average, with recent FBI data reporting approximately 200 total crime incidents annually. Violent crime remains rare, averaging 1.1 incidences per 1,000 residents, while property crime rates stand at about 7.3 per 1,000. Law enforcement agencies encourage community involvement and transparency, leading to consistent reporting and rapid response times. Overall, Franklin County is considered a safe community with active local policing supporting ongoing crime prevention and safety initiatives.