Madera County Public RecordsCalifornia

Madera County, CA, has a 2023 estimated population of about 158,000. The median age is 34.8 years, with 50.2% male and 49.8% female residents. The racial and ethnic breakdown is approximately 54% Hispanic or Latino, 34% White (non-Hispanic), 4% Asian, 3.5% Black or African American, and 4.5% other or mixed races. The county's diverse, growing population reflects a dynamic blend of cultural backgrounds.

Madera County, CA, had 86,133 registered voters as of 2022, with registration split among Democrats (37%), Republicans (38%), and No Party Preference (20%). The county conducts primary, general, and special elections. In the 2020 presidential election, Donald Trump received 54.9% of Madera votes, while Joe Biden got 42.4%. Polling locations numbered 13 Voter Centers in 2022, with mail-in ballots widely used. Key local issues include water access and agriculture. The Madera County Elections Division oversees election administration, ensuring compliance with state and federal laws. Turnout in major elections typically ranges from 60% to 75%.

Madera County, CA hosts 35 public schools, including 7 high schools, serving over 20,000 students. Approximately 17% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average high school graduation rate exceeds 85%, though schools have a GreatSchools rating average of 4–6/10. Madera Adult School caters to lifelong learning and GED programs. School safety initiatives include on-campus officers and anti-bullying programs. Educational programs feature career technical education and dual enrollment with local community colleges.

As of 2023, Madera County, CA, had an unemployment rate of 8.1%. Major employment sectors include agriculture (16%), education & health services (22%), and retail trade (11%). Common occupations are in farming, office administration, and sales. About 81% of residents commute by car, with an average commute time of 27 minutes; roughly 50% of workers are employed outside the county, often traveling to Fresno for work. Madera’s total labor force is approximately 65,000, with notable seasonal fluctuations due to its strong agricultural base.

Madera County, CA, has a homeownership rate of about 61%, with median home values around $360,000 (2023). Median monthly rent is approximately $1,400. The market has seen property values increase by roughly 5% year-over-year. Housing types include single-family homes, apartments, and mobile homes. Notable neighborhoods include Madera Ranchos, Chowchilla, and Oakhurst. Property tax rates average 1.1%, and newer developments may have Mello-Roos taxes. Residents benefit from relatively affordable housing compared to neighboring Fresno County, though prices continue to rise amid growing demand.

Madera County, CA reported a violent crime rate of 370.9 per 100,000 residents in 2022, slightly below the California average. Property crime, including burglary and theft, stood at 1,796.8 per 100,000 residents. The Sheriff's Office actively encourages community reporting, contributing to a steady decrease in crime over recent years. In 2022, there were 594 reported violent crimes and 2,879 property crimes, reflecting ongoing efforts to improve safety. Residents are urged to report suspicious activity to help maintain and further reduce crime rates.