La Plata County Public RecordsColorado

La Plata County, CO, has a crime rate lower than the national average, with 2022 FBI data showing approximately 22 crimes per 1,000 residents. Property crime is the most common, with burglary and theft comprising around 80% of cases. Violent crime remains relatively low, with about 2 incidents per 1,000 residents annually. Law enforcement encourages community reporting, and the solve rate for reported crimes is around 30%. Overall, La Plata County is considered safer than many similar-sized counties nationally.

La Plata County, CO, had approximately 41,000 registered voters in 2022, with about 36% unaffiliated, 34% Democratic, and 28% Republican. The county conducts general, primary, and municipal elections—recent 2022 results saw Democrats win key local offices. There are over a dozen polling locations, including Durango Community Recreation Center. Major issues include growth management and environmental concerns. Elections are managed by the County Clerk; voting is largely by mail but in-person voting is available. Party affiliation is diverse, reflecting competitive politics and local concerns.

La Plata County, Colorado, has a 2023 estimated population of about 56,687. The median age is approximately 40.7 years. Gender distribution is nearly equal, with 50.1% male and 49.9% female. Racially, the county is 83% White, 6% Native American, 1% Black, 1% Asian, and 9% identifying as two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents comprise around 12% of the population, reflecting modest diversity.

La Plata County, CO, is served by approximately 28 public and private schools, including 4 high schools. Around 93% of residents hold a high school diploma, and 45% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average public school test scores are 18% above the national average. The area offers adult education programs via Fort Lewis College and Pueblo Community College. School safety ratings are above the state average, with robust anti-bullying and wellness programs in place.

As of 2023, La Plata County, CO, has an employment rate of approximately 65%. Leading industries include Health Care & Social Assistance (16.4%), Accommodation & Food Services (13.1%), and Retail Trade (10.6%). The most common occupations are in Management (12.9%), Office & Administrative Support (12.6%), and Sales (10.9%). About 72% of workers commute alone by car, with a mean travel time of 21.6 minutes. Durango is the primary employment hub, with many workers both living and working within county boundaries.

La Plata County, CO has a homeownership rate of about 66%. Median home values are around $575,000 (2023), up from $475,000 in 2020, reflecting rising prices. Median monthly rent is roughly $1,400. Housing includes single-family homes, condos, and rural properties, with popular neighborhoods like Durango, Bayfield, and Ignacio. Property taxes average 0.44% of home value ($2,530 on a $575K home). The housing market remains competitive, driven by outdoor recreation and amenities, while property values and rents continue an upward trend.