Washington County

Washington County Demographics

Washington County, ME, has a population of about 32,000 people. The median age is 48.7 years, with 17.8% under 18 and 23.4% over 65. Gender distribution is nearly even at 49.6% male and 50.4% female. In terms of race and ethnicity, the county is predominantly White (95.6%), followed by 1.1% who identify as Two or more races, 0.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% Asian, and 0.1% Black or African American.

Washington County Crime & Safety

Washington County in Maine has a crime rate of approximately 1,938 per 100,000 residents. Violent crimes are relatively low with about 333 incidents annually. Property crime rates are higher, at about 1,604 per 100,000. The local law enforcement agencies in the county provide detailed crime reports and are continually working on strategies to reduce crime rates. Over the years, the county has seen a significant decrease in crime due to various community safety initiatives.

Washington County Housing & Property

In Washington County, ME, homeownership rate stands at about 77.8%, with a median home value of $115,600, which saw an appreciation rate of 4.5% in the past year. Median monthly rent is approximately $662. The housing infrastructure primarily comprises 83% single-family homes, 8% apartments, and around 9% townhomes and mobile homes. Homeowners in Washington County typically have to pay an average of 1.3% in property taxes annually.

Employment in Washington County

In Washington County, ME, the employment rate stands at 90.3%. Crucial industries in the area are healthcare at 13%, retail at 10% and manufacturing at 7%. Around 15% of the county's workforce commute outside the county. The job growth rate in the county is currently at 3.1%. The majority of workers, 70%, travel for less than 30 minutes to their jobs, while around 15% commute for more than 45 minutes.

Education in Washington County

Washington County in Maine offers education through its various public schools, private institutions, and higher education facilities like University of Maine at Machias. Student-to-teacher ratio is relatively low, enhancing personalized learning. The county's high school graduation rate hovers around 85%. Emphasis is placed on college readiness, vocational training, and lifelong learning. Adult education programs are available, serving a considerable number of residents annually. There are also initiatives for STEM education and arts programs. However, the percentage of residents with bachelor's degrees is slightly lower than the national average.

Washington County Elections

Washington County, in Maine, is a democratically engaged region with a significant voter population. The county is involved in local, state, and federal elections, including the selection of county officials, state representatives, and national figures. The Election Division, guided by the County Clerk, oversees the election processes. The voter turnout is high, reflecting an active political engagement across Republican, Democratic, and independent voters. The elections are conducted in multiple polling locations throughout the county.

Average Income Rate in Washington County

The median household income in Washington County, ME is approximately $42,000, with a poverty rate of 21%. Women earn 76% of what men make. The income for White households is around $42,000, while that for Black households is considerably lower. This income is significantly less than the national average of $68,700. The most flourishing professionals in Washington County are those involved in healthcare and social assistance sectors.

Washington County Healthcare

Washington County in Maine has a few prominent hospitals to tend to its residents’ healthcare needs. The rate of insured individuals is high, with majority being part of employer healthcare schemes. Although it ranks towards the bottom in health outcomes in the state, efforts are being made to improve this. Chronic diseases such as diabetes are on the rise. Most residents have regular health checkups and screenings. Hosting an array of healthcare professionals, the county's annual average healthcare cost per individual is comparable to the national average.

Washington County Transportation

Washington County, Maine features various transportation means with numerous highways such as U.S. Route 1 and U.S. Route 1A running through the county. Public transit options are limited, but the West Bus Service provides regional transportation. Car ownership is high and is the most popular mode of transportation. The average commute time is about 24 minutes, below the national average. The county boasts several biking and hiking trails for non-motorized travel. Maritime and air travel are also prominent, with multiple harbors and the Eastport Municipal Airport.

Washington County Environmental Data & Climate Data

Washington County, ME has an average temperature of 45°F with about 46 inches of rainfall per year. It has a relatively good Air Quality Index (AQI) of 35. Approximately 92% of the county has clean water access. The county has made efforts in recycling, with a recycling rate of about 40%. There are also more than 50 solar installations in the county. The risk of hurricanes is relatively low, around 5% annually. The county also focuses on eco-friendly building and energy solutions.