Demographics

As of 2023, Nez Perce County, Idaho, has a population of approximately 42,100. The median age is 41.7 years, with about 49.6% male and 50.4% female residents. Racially, the county is 87% White, 5% Native American, 3% Hispanic or Latino, 1% Asian, 0.5% Black, and 3.5% from two or more races. The area has a moderate aging trend and notable Native American representation due to the Nez Perce Tribe.

Elections

Nez Perce County, ID, had approximately 25,000 registered voters as of 2022. The county conducts primary, general, and special elections, with results showing a Republican majority—Donald Trump won 64.8% in the 2020 presidential race. Polling locations include the Lewiston Community Center and area schools. Key election issues often involve land use and local taxes. Elections are administered by the County Clerk’s office with oversight from a bipartisan board. Registered voters split mainly between Republican (about 57%) and unaffiliated/other, with Democrats comprising roughly 18%. Early voting and absentee ballots are available for residents.

Education, Employment and Housing

Nez Perce County, ID, has 30 public schools, including 4 high schools. About 93% of adults hold a high school diploma and 24% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. The county’s average public high school graduation rate is around 85%. School safety reports indicate lower-than-average incidents per state metrics. Educational programs include advanced placement, career-technical courses, and adult education offerings. Average student test scores are near the state average, with a proficiency rate of 60% in math and 66% in reading. The local community college further supports adult and continuing education.

Nez Perce County, Idaho, had an unemployment rate of approximately 2.8% in early 2024. Major employment sectors include health care and social assistance (19%), retail trade (13%), and manufacturing (11%). Leading occupations are office and administrative support (13%) and sales (10%). About 83% of workers commute by car, with a mean commute time of 17 minutes. Around 65% of residents work within the county, while others commute to nearby counties such as Asotin, WA, and Latah, ID. The labor force participation rate stands at about 62%.

Nez Perce County, ID features a homeownership rate of approximately 68%, with median property values around $275,000 as of 2023. Rental units make up 32% of residences, with median rents near $950 per month. The housing market trends show steady growth, with prices up 5% year-over-year. Most homes are single-family houses, with some apartments and manufactured homes. Popular neighborhoods include Lewiston Orchards and Clarkston Heights. Property tax rates average 0.81%, lower than the national average, making the area appealing for both homeowners and renters.

County Crime & Safety

Nez Perce County, ID, reported a crime rate of 22.34 incidents per 1,000 residents in 2023, aligning close to the national average. Violent crime, including assaults, registered at 2.7 per 1,000, while property crime—mainly theft and burglary—stood at 19.6 per 1,000. The county utilizes regular reporting to Idaho State Police, supporting consistent monitoring. Law enforcement emphasizes community programs and rapid response, contributing to a steady crime decline of approximately 5% over the past two years, enhancing overall safety for residents.