Demographics

As of 2022, Ontario County, NY, has an estimated population of 112,442. The median age is about 44 years, with 51% female and 49% male residents. The racial makeup is predominantly White (89%), followed by Black or African American (4%), Asian (2%), and individuals of two or more races (4%). Hispanic or Latino residents comprise approximately 4% of the population.

Education, Employment and Housing

Ontario County, NY, has 28 public schools serving around 15,000 students in K-12, with graduation rates averaging 92%. The county hosts Finger Lakes Community College and proximity to several four-year colleges enables about 35% of adults to hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety is rated above state average, with 90% of schools implementing comprehensive safety programs. Educational offerings include AP, vocational, and dual-enrollment courses. Adult education options include workforce training and GED programs through local institutions. Average school performance scores range from 75-89 out of 100.

As of 2022, Ontario County, NY had an employment rate of approximately 62%. Key industries include Health Care & Social Assistance (employing 17.5%), Manufacturing (13.3%), and Retail Trade (11.1%). The leading occupation types are Office & Administrative Support (12.1%) and Sales (9.8%). About 80% of residents commute by car, with a mean travel time of 23.1 minutes. Roughly 69% work within the county, while others commute to Monroe and Wayne counties.

Ontario County, NY, has a homeownership rate of about 73%, with median home values around $255,000 as of 2023, reflecting steady appreciation. Median rent is approximately $1,200/month. Housing types range from historic homes in Canandaigua to modern developments in Victor and rural properties in surrounding towns. Popular neighborhoods include Geneva’s lakefront and Victor’s suburban communities. Property taxes average 2.5% of assessed value, making them higher than the national average. The county’s diverse housing market supports both families and retirees, with a blend of urban, suburban, and rural living options.

Elections

Ontario County, NY had 73,884 registered voters as of 2024, with registrations split mainly between Republicans (36%), Democrats (31%), and Independents/other (33%). The county holds general, primary, and school board elections, with 51 polling locations. In the 2020 presidential election, 55% voted Republican and 43% Democrat. Key issues include property taxes and economic development. The Board of Elections administers voting, ensuring secure ballot handling and poll worker training. Both major parties have active committees locally.

County Crime & Safety

Ontario County, NY, generally maintains lower crime rates compared to national averages. According to recent FBI data, the violent crime rate was about 104 incidents per 100,000 residents in 2022, with property crime at approximately 883 per 100,000. Locally, the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office emphasizes active reporting and community partnerships, resulting in high case clearance rates. Overall, Ontario County is considered relatively safe, with consistent efforts in law enforcement visibility and prompt response times, contributing to the county's strong reputation for public safety.