County Crime & Safety

Modoc County, CA, is known for its low crime rates compared to state and national averages. In 2022, the county reported a violent crime rate of approximately 245 incidents per 100,000 people, far below California’s average of 500 per 100,000. Property crime rates were also low at around 850 per 100,000. The Modoc County Sheriff’s Office regularly publishes crime statistics, emphasizing transparency and community safety efforts. Residents report high levels of perceived safety, with most crimes being minor property offenses rather than violent incidents, making Modoc one of the safer rural counties in California.

Education, Employment and Housing

Modoc County, CA, has 14 public schools, including 1 high school (Modoc High School) with a graduation rate of around 91%. Approximately 14% of county residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety ratings are above average, and most schools score 6/10 or higher on state assessments. The county offers adult education through Modoc Adult Education and Modoc County Office of Education, focusing on GED and career skills. Educational programs emphasize small class sizes and personalized learning.

As of 2022, Modoc County, CA, had an employment rate of approximately 52%, with about 3,000 employed residents. Major industries include healthcare and social assistance (21%), agriculture (16%), and retail trade (12%). The leading occupation types are management, office/administrative support, and service roles. Around 78% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 15.9 minutes. Most residents work within the county, though about 10% commute to neighboring counties such as Siskiyou and Shasta.

Modoc County, CA, is a rural region where about 68% of residents own their homes and 32% rent. The median home value is approximately $175,000 (2023), with home values increasing modestly in recent years. Housing types are primarily single-family homes, with some manufactured homes and apartments, especially in Alturas, the largest city. Neighborhoods are quiet and spread out, with large lots and scenic views. Property taxes average about 0.58% of assessed value, making them among the lowest in California. Rent for a two-bedroom unit averages around $875 per month.

Demographics

As of 2023, Modoc County, CA, has an estimated population of about 8,500. The median age is approximately 44 years. Around 50.1% are male and 49.9% female. Racially, the population is 85% White, 2% Native American, 1% Asian, and about 9% identifying as Hispanic or Latino. African Americans and other races each comprise less than 1%. The county is sparsely populated, reflecting its rural and remote character.

Elections

Modoc County, CA, recorded about 6,940 registered voters in the November 2022 election, with 49% Republican, 27% Democrat, and 19% No Party Preference. The county conducts primary, general, and local elections, administered by the Modoc County Clerk’s office. Polling locations include sites in Alturas, Cedarville, and Adin. In 2020, Donald Trump won 75% of the local vote. Key local issues include water rights and rural infrastructure. Election results and registration are publicly audited, ensuring transparency and compliance with California standards.