Del Norte County Public RecordsCalifornia

Del Norte County, CA, had an estimated 2023 population of about 27,700. The median age is 39.2 years; approximately 51% are male and 49% are female. Racially, the population is 67% White, 8.1% Native American, 2.5% Asian, 2.3% Black or African American, and 14.8% Hispanic or Latino (of any race). About 9% identify with two or more races. This diverse population reflects the county’s unique coastal and rural character.

Del Norte County, CA, has about 17,500 registered voters (2024), with registration split as 38% Democratic, 36% Republican, and 18% No Party Preference. Elections include primaries, generals, and local measures, with presidential turnout reaching 70% in 2020. Polling locations include the County Clerk’s office and precinct sites in Crescent City and rural communities. Major issues are forestry, fishing, and public safety. The Elections Office administers voting, ensuring compliance with state law. Both Democratic and Republican parties are active, influencing local and state results, with recent tight margins in supervisor and state legislative races.

Del Norte County, CA, has 12 public schools, including Del Norte High School, serving roughly 3,500 students. About 77% of adults have a high school diploma, but only 13% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, below California’s average. School safety scores are moderate, with Del Norte High scoring 6/10 on GreatSchools. Educational programs include career technical education, special education, and adult education through the Del Norte Adult School. Despite challenges, the district offers tutoring, after-school programs, and dual-enrollment college courses to support student success and community improvement.

As of 2023, Del Norte County, CA has an employment rate of approximately 51.4%. Major employment sectors include government (31%), health care and social assistance (14%), and retail trade (11%). The predominant occupation types are in office/admin (14%), food preparation (12%), and management (10%). Around 77% of workers commute alone by car, with an average commute time of 16.6 minutes. Most residents are employed locally in Crescent City, with limited commuting to neighboring counties. Unemployment remains above the state average, at roughly 6.2%.

Del Norte County, CA, has a homeownership rate of around 63%, with median home values at about $320,000 in 2023. Median rents are approximately $1,200 per month. The market saw modest growth, with property values increasing about 3% year-over-year. Housing types range from single-family homes to some apartments, concentrated in neighborhoods like Crescent City, Smith River, and Hiouchi. The county’s property tax rate averages 0.78%. Newer developments are limited, with most homes built before 1980. Renting remains popular due to affordability challenges for first-time buyers.

Del Norte County, CA, experiences higher-than-average crime rates compared to state and national levels. In 2022, the violent crime rate was approximately 583 incidents per 100,000 residents, surpassing the California average of 466. Property crime rates reached around 2,645 per 100,000, compared to the state’s 2,178. Law enforcement agencies report regular issues with drug-related offenses, theft, and occasional violent crimes. Accurate crime statistics are published by the California Department of Justice, with ongoing efforts to enhance public safety and community reporting.