Wayne County Public RecordsUtah

Wayne County, UT, maintains relatively low crime rates compared to state and national averages. In 2022, the county reported approximately 35 total crimes, with a crime rate of about 7.3 per 1,000 residents. Property crimes (25 cases) far outnumbered violent crimes (10 cases). The local sheriff’s office actively encourages community reporting and transparency, contributing to its reputation for safety. According to FBI Uniform Crime Reporting, Wayne County’s violent crime rate (2.1 per 1,000) remains significantly lower than Utah’s average (2.9 per 1,000), underscoring its status as a safe rural community.

As of the 2020 Census, Wayne County, Utah, had a population of 2,486. The median age was 43.9 years, indicating an older population. About 50.8% were male and 49.2% female. Racially, the county was predominantly White (95.0%), with small percentages of Native American (1.2%), two or more races (2.8%), and other groups. Hispanic or Latino residents comprised 3.7% of the population.

Wayne County, Utah, had approximately 1,700 registered voters as of 2022. Elections include federal, state, and local offices, with recent turnout near 75%. Polling locations are mainly in Loa and Hanksville. The county consistently votes Republican—in 2020, about 85% supported the GOP presidential candidate. Local issues include public lands and rural infrastructure. Election administration is handled by the Wayne County Clerk’s office. Parties represented are Republican, Democratic, and Libertarian; however, Republicans dominate registrations and outcomes. Early voting and mail-in ballots are available, improving accessibility for Wayne County’s dispersed rural population.

Wayne County, UT has 5 public schools, including Wayne High School. About 86% of adults hold a high school diploma, while roughly 20% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety incidents are rare, with low reported rates. The district’s average proficiency scores are around 50% in math and 47% in reading. Adult education programs are offered through local institutions. The county provides various educational programs, including vocational and STEM, supporting a safe, inclusive environment for its small student population of approximately 500.

Wayne County, UT, had an unemployment rate of approximately 2.7% as of early 2024. Major employment sectors include agriculture, forestry, fishing & hunting (about 18%), educational services (16%), and accommodation & food services (15%). Leading occupation types are management, farming/fishing, and service roles. Nearly 75% of employed residents work within the county, with an average commute time of 16 minutes. Government positions, particularly in schools and national parks, are significant employers. Overall, Wayne County’s workforce is small and primarily engaged in local, agriculture, government, and tourism-related jobs.

Wayne County, UT has a homeownership rate of about 77%, with median home values around $263,000 (2022). Rentals are limited, with median gross rent near $780 monthly. The housing stock is primarily single-family homes, with scattered farmhouses and cabins, especially around towns like Loa, Bicknell, and Torrey. Recently, property values have risen roughly 10% annually due to increased rural interest. Property taxes average 0.6% of assessed value, making them lower than the national average. The region remains affordable compared to urban Utah, but low inventory means competitive markets in desirable neighborhoods near Capitol Reef National Park.