Demographics

As of 2023, Fresno County, CA, has an estimated population of 1,014,700. The median age is about 33.4 years. Females make up approximately 50.5% of the population. Racial and ethnic composition includes about 50% Hispanic/Latino, 27% White (non-Hispanic), 8% Asian, 6% Black or African American, and 8% other or multiracial groups. The county boasts a young, diverse population, reflective of California’s Central Valley.

Elections

Fresno County, CA, has over 530,000 registered voters as of 2024. Elections include federal, state, county, and local races, with recent turnout around 43% in the 2022 midterm. Polling locations exceed 50, alongside numerous vote centers and drop boxes. Administration is overseen by the Fresno County Clerk/Registrar of Voters. Major parties are Democrats (about 42%), Republicans (32%), and No Party Preference (23%). Key issues include water, agriculture, and housing. Past election results show Democrats generally win urban areas, Republicans rural zones, reflecting the county’s political diversity.

Education, Employment and Housing

Fresno County, CA, hosts over 400 K-12 public schools, including 49 high schools, and several colleges such as Fresno State. About 80% of residents hold a high school diploma, while 22% possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety scores average 6/10, according to GreatSchools. The county offers extensive adult education through Fresno Adult School and community colleges, with diverse programs in trades, ESL, and GED prep. Notable districts like Clovis Unified and Fresno Unified provide specialized educational programs, including STEM and dual enrollment opportunities for high school students.

Fresno County, CA, had an employment rate of approximately 92.7% in 2023. Major employment sectors include agriculture (14%), education and health services (20%), and trade, transportation, and utilities (19%). Common occupations are in office/administrative support (14%), sales (10%), and production (9%). Around 84% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 23 minutes. Most employment is concentrated in Fresno city, while Clovis and nearby counties also draw commuters.

Fresno County, CA, has a homeownership rate of approximately 54%, with median home values around $365,000 as of early 2024. Median monthly rent is about $1,350. Property values have shown steady 4-6% annual growth, though increases are slowing. Housing includes single-family homes, apartments, and newer developments, in neighborhoods like Clovis, Fig Garden, and Sunnyside. Property tax rates average 1.11%, meaning annual taxes of about $4,050 on a median-priced home. The area remains relatively affordable compared to other California counties, appealing to both buyers and renters seeking value.

County Crime & Safety

Fresno County, CA, experiences higher crime rates than state and national averages. In 2023, the violent crime rate was 6.1 per 1,000 residents, with property crime at 31.5 per 1,000. Fresno City reported over 3,500 violent crimes and 17,000 property crimes. Law enforcement agencies, including the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, strive for prompt crime reporting via online and phone platforms. Community policing and prevention programs are ongoing to enhance safety, though challenges remain, particularly in urban neighborhoods.