Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Siskiyou County, California, had a population of approximately 44,076. The median age is about 47 years, reflecting an older demographic. Gender distribution is nearly even, with 50.2% female and 49.8% male. Racially, the county is 82% White, 5% Native American, 2% Asian, 1% Black or African American, and around 8% Hispanic or Latino of any race, with other races and mixed backgrounds comprising the remainder.

Elections

Siskiyou County, CA, had 28,712 registered voters as of 2022, with 44% Republican, 25% Democrat, and 24% No Party Preference. The county conducts primary, general, and special elections, with results typically favoring Republican candidates; for example, in the 2020 Presidential election, Trump received 61.5%. There are 44 polling locations across the county. Key issues include wildfire management and water rights. Elections are administered by the Siskiyou County Clerk’s Office, ensuring compliance with state law and accessibility. Party activities are visible, but turnout remains around 70% during general elections.

Education, Employment and Housing

Siskiyou County, CA has 25 public schools, including 8 high schools, serving around 5,100 K-12 students. About 19% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, lower than the California average. Schools’ average test scores are below state norms, with district scores ranging from 20-50% proficiency in math and English. School safety is generally good, with low reported incident rates. Educational programs include career technical education and adult learning centers. Efforts are ongoing to improve graduation rates, which currently stand at about 87%, and expand postsecondary pathways and vocational training.

Siskiyou County, CA, has an employment rate of approximately 54.3% (2022), with a labor force participation rate near 51%. Major employment sectors include Health Care & Social Assistance (18%), Retail Trade (13%), and Educational Services (12%). Leading occupations are in management (15%) and sales (12%). Most workers (over 76%) commute by driving alone, with a mean travel time of 17.4 minutes. While the majority work within the county, about 12% commute out, primarily to Shasta and Jackson counties.

Siskiyou County, CA has a homeownership rate of around 65%, with median home values near $295,000 in 2024 and median rents about $1,100/month. Property values have risen roughly 4% in the past year. Housing types include single-family homes, log cabins, and ranch-style residences, primarily in towns like Yreka, Mount Shasta, and Weed. Neighborhoods range from rural communities to small-town settings. Property taxes average 0.83% of assessed value, making them relatively affordable compared to California’s average. The county offers a blend of affordability and scenic mountain living.

County Crime & Safety

Siskiyou County, CA, has a crime rate lower than the state average but higher than the national average for some categories. In 2022, the violent crime rate was 4.3 per 1,000 residents, while property crime was 19.7 per 1,000. Compared to California’s overall property crime rate of 23.5, Siskiyou fares slightly better. The sheriff’s office reported 520 total arrests in 2023, with consistent community policing efforts. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity using the county’s online portal or tip line, which contributed to solving 72% of reported cases last year.