Piscataquis County Public RecordsMaine

Piscataquis County, Maine, had a 2020 population of approximately 16,800. The median age was about 51 years, reflecting an older demographic. Around 50.5% of residents were male and 49.5% female. The county’s population was predominantly White (about 96%), with small percentages of Native American (1.1%), two or more races (1.9%), and Hispanic or Latino (0.8%). African American and Asian populations each made up less than 0.5% of residents.

Piscataquis County, ME, has roughly 12,000 registered voters out of a 16,800 population (2020 census). Voter registration skews Republican, with 42% Republican, 22% Democrat, and 36% unenrolled. The county handles federal, state, and local elections, with major polling locations in Dover-Foxcroft, Greenville, and Milo. In the 2020 presidential election, Donald Trump received 65% of county votes. Elections are overseen by the County Clerk and town clerks. Key issues include taxation, rural economic development, and healthcare. The two major parties dominate, though independents are significant.

Piscataquis County, ME has 12 public schools, including 2 high schools. About 88% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 19% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average test scores are below national averages, with a proficiency rate around 47% in reading and 22% in math. School safety is generally rated satisfactory with low incident rates. Educational programs are limited due to the county’s rural setting, but adult education options exist through regional centers, offering GED and skills training.

Piscataquis County, ME, had an employment-population ratio of approximately 51% in 2022. Major industries include healthcare and social assistance (21%), retail trade (13%), and manufacturing (10%). Top occupations are office/administrative support (13%), sales (10%), and management (9%). About 78% of workers drive alone to work, with an average commute time of 23 minutes. Most residents (over 85%) work within the county, while others commute to neighboring Penobscot County. The unemployment rate was around 4.6% in 2022.

Piscataquis County, ME, has a homeownership rate of about 84%, with a median home value of $153,000 as of 2023. The rental vacancy rate is high, with median rents around $830. Property values have increased 7% year-over-year, but remain below state averages. Housing stock primarily consists of single-family homes and older properties; multi-family units are rare. Popular areas include Dover-Foxcroft and Greenville. Property taxes average 1.1% of assessed value, or roughly $1,680 annually for a median-priced home, making it relatively affordable compared to other Maine counties.

Piscataquis County, ME, consistently reports one of the lowest crime rates in the state. In 2022, the violent crime rate was approximately 27 incidents per 100,000 residents, well below the national average of 380. Property crime is also low, with around 470 incidents per 100,000, compared to the US average of 1,958. Local law enforcement agencies actively encourage prompt crime reporting, contributing to overall community safety. According to FBI data, arrests and reported incidents remain stable, supporting Piscataquis' reputation as a safe rural county.