Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Jerome County, Idaho, had a population of 24,237. The median age is 33.8 years. About 49.7% are male and 50.3% female. Racially, 79% are White, 0.6% Native American, 0.5% Asian, and 0.6% Black or African American, with 17.8% from other races. Hispanic or Latino individuals make up 34.3% of the population.

County Crime & Safety

Jerome County, Idaho, maintains relatively low crime rates compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported approximately 235 total crimes, including 28 violent crimes and 207 property crimes, according to Idaho State Police statistics. The violent crime rate stands at about 1.9 per 1,000 residents, while property crime is 14.2 per 1,000. Law enforcement agencies encourage residents to report suspicious activity, contributing to prompt response and proactive crime prevention. Overall, Jerome County is considered safe, with local authorities focused on maintaining and improving public safety.

Education, Employment and Housing

Jerome County, Idaho, serves over 3,600 K-12 students across 9 public schools, including 2 high schools. About 81% of residents hold a high school diploma, while 14% possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. The district offers advanced placement, dual credit, and career-technical programs. School safety measures, including on-site resource officers and security protocols, have resulted in lower-than-average incident rates. Average test scores in reading and math rank slightly below the state median, but adult education and GED programs are available through College of Southern Idaho’s Jerome Center.

As of 2022, Jerome County, Idaho, had an employment rate of 64.1%, with approximately 13,900 employed residents. Major industries include agriculture (20.7%), manufacturing (16.2%), and health care/social assistance (9.5%). The most common occupations are production, transportation, and material moving (22.8%), followed by office and administrative support (11.4%). About 87% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 18.3 minutes; 53% work within the county, while 47% commute outside, mainly to Twin Falls. (Sources: U.S. Census Bureau, 2022 ACS; Idaho Department of Labor)

Jerome County, ID, has a homeownership rate of around 70%, with median home values at approximately $290,000 in 2023—a 9% increase year-over-year. Median gross rent is about $900 monthly. The county mainly features single-family homes but offers some multi-family and manufactured housing options, especially in Jerome city and Eden. Property tax rates average 1.03% of assessed home value. Popular neighborhoods include Heritage Estates and Cottonwood, known for family-friendly amenities. The housing market remains moderately competitive, with homes selling in under 30 days on average.

Elections

Jerome County, Idaho, with about 14,500 registered voters in 2024, primarily participates in general, primary, and local elections. In the 2020 presidential election, 78% voted Republican, 19% Democrat. Polling locations include Jerome County Courthouse and several precincts. Key issues include water rights, agriculture, and education funding. The county clerk oversees election administration, ensuring compliance and voter security. Republican Party dominates local offices; Democrats have minimal representation. Voter turnout typically ranges from 60% in general to 20-25% in local elections.