San Juan County Public RecordsColorado

As of the 2020 Census, San Juan County, Colorado had a population of 705. The median age was about 47 years, with 55% male and 45% female residents. The county is predominantly White (84%), with Hispanics/Latinos making up 11%, and smaller proportions of Native American, Asian, and Black residents (each under 2%). San Juan County’s small, aging population reflects rural Colorado’s demographic trends.

San Juan County, Colorado, has about 540 registered voters as of 2024. The county holds general, primary, and coordinated elections, with the San Juan County Courthouse in Silverton serving as the main polling and ballot drop-off location. In the 2020 presidential election, Democratic candidates received around 68% of the vote, while Republicans earned about 30%. Local issues include tourism management and public infrastructure. Election administration is managed by the County Clerk. Voter registration leans Democratic, but Unaffiliated voters also make up a significant portion, reflecting Colorado’s broader party trends.

San Juan County, Colorado, has just one public school, Silverton School, serving grades K-12, with an enrollment of around 60 students. Approximately 85% of adults hold a high school diploma, and about 35% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. The school ranks below state averages in test scores but offers individualized attention due to its small size. School safety incidents are rare, and programs emphasize STEM and outdoor education. Adult education options are limited locally, but online and regional programs are available.

San Juan County, CO, has an employment rate of about 57%, with approximately 170 employed residents (out of a total population near 700). Key industries include accommodation and food services (24%), mining (18%), and construction (14%). Occupations are mainly in service (36%), management/business (20%), and extraction/maintenance (19%) roles. Most employees work locally—over 85% have commutes of less than 15 minutes, and only a small fraction commute out to neighboring counties for work. The unemployment rate stands near 7% as of 2023.

San Juan County, CO, has fewer than 750 residents, with a homeownership rate around 64% and median home values near $315,000 (2023). The median monthly rent is roughly $800. Housing consists mainly of historic single-family homes and cabins concentrated in Silverton, the county’s sole town. Recent years saw modest property value increases due to tourism and recreation interest. Property tax rates are about 0.3%, well below the national average. The county features compact neighborhoods, scenic mountain surroundings, and limited new development due to rugged terrain and preservation efforts.

San Juan County, CO, reports one of the lowest crime rates in the state. According to 2022 FBI data, the county had only 3 reported crimes, all property-related, with zero violent crimes recorded. This results in a property crime rate of about 1,146 per 100,000 residents—below national and state averages. Local law enforcement maintains regular patrols and emphasizes community reporting, contributing to the area's reputation for safety.