Clearwater County, Idaho Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Clearwater County is located in Idaho with a total population of 8,921. It is the 31st most populous county out of 44 in Idaho.

Age Demographics

The median age in Clearwater County is 52.0 years. This is 40% higher than the state median of 37.1 years. 11.6% of residents are 75 or older, suggesting a significant retirement-age population with implications for healthcare services and senior housing.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Clearwater County is $57,961. This is 22% lower than the state median of $74,636. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 26% lower. The poverty rate stands at 12.5%. This is 18% higher than the state poverty rate of 10.6%. The unemployment rate is 3.5%. This is 6% lower than the state rate of 3.7%. The median home value is $240,800. Housing costs are 36% lower than the state median of $376,000. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.2x. 81.6% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 13% higher than the state average of 72.4%.

Race & Ethnicity

Clearwater County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 88.4% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 4.3%. The Black or African American population (0.2%) is well below the state average of 0.7%. The Hispanic or Latino population (4.3%) is well below the state average of 13.3%.

Education

19.4% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 38% lower than the state rate of 31.2%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 91.1%.