Elections

Humboldt County, CA, has approximately 91,000 registered voters as of 2024, with 40% Democratic, 24% Republican, and 28% No Party Preference. Elections include primaries, general, and local measures. In the 2020 presidential election, 66% voted for the Democratic candidate. The county operates 25 polling locations, plus vote-by-mail. Key issues include cannabis regulation, environmental policies, and tribal relations. The Elections Office, overseen by the County Clerk-Recorder, manages administration. Voter turnout typically ranges from 60–75% in general elections.

Demographics

As of 2022, Humboldt County, CA, has a population of approximately 136,000. The median age is 40.1 years. 49.7% are female and 50.3% male. Racially, the county is 75.3% White, 6.8% Native American, 12.7% Hispanic or Latino, 2.2% Asian, 1.0% Black or African American, and 4.7% report two or more races. The population reflects a blend of rural, coastal, and indigenous communities.

County Crime & Safety

Humboldt County, CA has a significantly higher crime rate than both state and national averages. In 2022, the violent crime rate was approximately 570 incidents per 100,000 people, compared to California’s 466, while property crime reached 2,980 per 100,000, exceeding the state average of 2,400. Common issues include burglary, drug-related offenses, and theft. The Humboldt County Sheriff's Office and local police actively report and address crime, emphasizing community alerts and safety programs. Despite efforts, residents are advised to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to enhance public safety.

Education, Employment and Housing

Humboldt County, CA, has 68 public schools (including 8 high schools), and serves around 17,000 students. About 90% graduate high school, but only 26% of adults have a bachelor’s degree or higher. The county is home to Cal Poly Humboldt, a major university. School safety measures are implemented, though some schools report above-average suspension rates (7%). Educational programs include vocational training and adult education through College of the Redwoods. Average test scores typically fall below the California state average, reflecting challenges in student achievement.

As of 2023, Humboldt County, CA had an unemployment rate of about 4.8%. Major employment sectors include health care and social assistance (21%), retail trade (13%), and educational services (12%). The largest occupation types are office and administrative support (16%), food preparation and serving (10%), and sales (9%). Approximately 81% of employed residents work within the county, with a mean commute time of 18.7 minutes. Agriculture, forestry, and fishing account for 6% of jobs, reflecting the county's rural and coastal character.

Humboldt County, CA, offers diverse housing with median home values around $420,000 (2023) and a median rent of approximately $1,350/month. About 56% of residents own their homes, while 44% rent. Popular neighborhoods include Arcata, Eureka, and McKinleyville, with housing types ranging from historic Victorians to modern apartments. Home values rose nearly 4% in the past year. Annual property tax rates average 0.79% of assessed value. The market features steady demand, especially near coastal areas and the Humboldt State University campus.