Harney County, Oregon Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Harney County is located in Oregon with a total population of 7,515. It is the 32nd most populous county out of 36 in Oregon.

Age Demographics

The median age in Harney County is 45.8 years. This is 14% higher than the state median of 40.1 years. 10.8% 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 Harney County is $48,338. This is 40% lower than the state median of $80,426. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 38% lower. The poverty rate stands at 12.8%. This is 8% higher than the state poverty rate of 11.9%. The unemployment rate is 4.4%. This is 17% lower than the state rate of 5.4%. The median home value is $190,600. Housing costs are 58% lower than the state median of $454,200. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.9x. 67.2% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 6% higher than the state average of 63.4%.

Race & Ethnicity

Harney County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 85.3% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 5.5%. The Black or African American population (0.2%) is well below the state average of 1.8%. The Hispanic or Latino population (5.5%) is well below the state average of 14.3%.

Education

15.6% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is among the lowest rates in the state, which may correlate with employment and income patterns. This is 57% lower than the state rate of 36.2%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 91.8%.