Gooding County Public RecordsIdaho

Gooding County, Idaho, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported approximately 180 total crimes, with 24 violent offenses and 156 property crimes, resulting in a crime rate of about 18 per 1,000 residents. The sheriff’s office manages crime reporting and public safety, emphasizing prompt response and community outreach. Overall, Gooding County remains safer than 65% of U.S. counties, although residents are encouraged to stay alert and report suspicious activities for continued safety improvements.

Gooding County, Idaho, had approximately 7,000 registered voters in 2022. Elections include federal, state, and local races, with recent turnouts averaging 65%. In the 2020 presidential election, 74% voted Republican and 23% Democrat. Polling locations include Gooding County Fairgrounds and Wendell City Hall. Key issues are agriculture, water rights, and education. The Gooding County Clerk’s Office administers elections. Voters mainly align with the Republican Party, though there is an active Democratic presence. Early voting and absentee ballots are available.

Gooding County, ID has 7 public schools, including Gooding High School. Approximately 83% of adults have a high school diploma, and 15% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average public school rating is 5/10 (GreatSchools). School safety is generally above average, with few reported incidents. Educational programs include Advanced Placement and career-technical education. Adult education is supported through partnerships with the College of Southern Idaho, offering GED and workforce training.

As of 2022, Gooding County, ID had an employment rate of approximately 59.5%. Major industries include agriculture (employing about 27% of workers), manufacturing (16%), and health care (13%). The most common occupations are production (18%) and office/administrative roles (14%). The median commute time is around 18 minutes, with over 80% of workers driving alone to work. Most residents are employed within the county, though about 21% commute to adjacent counties such as Twin Falls for employment.

Gooding County, Idaho, has a homeownership rate of approximately 73%, with median home values around $225,000 in 2023, reflecting a 4-5% year-over-year increase. Median rent is about $880 per month. The area features single-family homes, some multifamily units, and rural properties, with top neighborhoods including Gooding and Wendell. Property tax rates average 0.72%, lower than the national average. The county offers a blend of small-town and agricultural living, with moderate growth in housing demand.

As of the 2020 Census, Gooding County, Idaho, had a population of 15,598. The median age is about 36 years. Approximately 51% of residents are male and 49% female. Racially, the county is 77% White, 0.6% Black or African American, 1.6% Native American, 0.5% Asian, and 15.8% from other races; 4.4% identify as two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents make up 32.6% of the population.