County Crime & Safety

Lincoln County, ID, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. In 2022, the county reported a total of 55 criminal incidents, with 8 violent crimes and 47 property crimes, according to Idaho State Police data. The crime rate stands at approximately 610 per 100,000 residents. Local law enforcement actively encourages community reporting, which supports prompt responses and thorough investigations. Overall, Lincoln County is considered a safe rural community, with ongoing efforts to maintain low crime levels and ensure resident safety.

Elections

As of 2024, Lincoln County, Idaho, has approximately 2,800 registered voters. The county administers primary, general, and special elections, with polling locations in Shoshone, Richfield, and Dietrich. In the 2020 general election, 75% of voters favored Republican candidates, while Democrats received 22%. The County Clerk oversees election administration, and major issues include water rights and agricultural policies. Currently, the Republican Party holds most local offices, with Democrats remaining a minority. Voter turnout averages 65% in presidential years.

Education, Employment and Housing

Lincoln County, ID, has 3 public schools, including 1 high school, serving about 1,000 students. Approximately 85% of adults hold a high school diploma, while around 17% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools in the county score an average of 4 out of 10 on GreatSchools ratings, indicating room for improvement. Safety measures include routine drills and secure entry systems. Educational programs focus on STEM and vocational training. Adult education is available through partnerships with nearby community colleges, supporting lifelong learning opportunities.

As of 2023, Lincoln County, ID, has an unemployment rate of approximately 2.6%. The largest employment sectors are agriculture (28%), manufacturing (18%), and education & health services (14%). Most residents work as laborers, production workers, and teachers. About 35% of employed residents commute out of the county for work, primarily to Twin Falls. The average commute time is 22 minutes. Overall, Lincoln County’s workforce is rural-based, with employment opportunities centered around farming, food processing, and public services.

Lincoln County, Idaho, features a homeownership rate of approximately 68%, with median home values around $240,000 in 2023, reflecting moderate annual growth. Average rents hover near $950 monthly. The housing stock is primarily made up of single-family homes, with some manufactured housing and limited multifamily units. Communities like Shoshone, Richfield, and Dietrich offer quiet, rural neighborhoods. Property taxes average 0.77% of assessed value, keeping taxes relatively low. The market remains accessible compared to state and national averages, making Lincoln County attractive for families seeking affordability and stability.

Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Lincoln County, Idaho, had a population of about 5,369. The median age was 34.6 years. Approximately 51% were male and 49% female. The racial and ethnic composition was 74% White (non-Hispanic), 2% Native American, and around 23% Hispanic or Latino of any race. Asian, Black or African American, and individuals of two or more races made up the remainder.