Hermiston City has a population of approximately 16,900 people. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city is predominantly white. Nearly 16% of its residents are African American, and the remaining population is composed of Hispanics and other races. Hermiston has a low percentage of Hispanics compared to other areas of Washington County. This low population density is not unusual for the region.
Hermiston was first settled as a stop for travelers, and was originally called Six Mile House. However, it wasn't incorporated until 1907, and early industry in the city was agricultural. The 1902 Reclamation Act provided resources for the Umatilla Irrigation Project, which diverted water from the Umatilla River to farmers' fields. Potatoes were exported from the town by riverboat.
Hermiston's school district serves students in Kindergarten through 12, and focuses on a rigorous academic program and high expectations. Hermiston High School ranks in the top half of all Oregon schools, based on combined reading and math proficiency testing. The school district has a strong online learning program. The school district employs 600 full-time teachers and nearly 200 classified workers. The city's school system is home to approximately 28,000 residents. One-third of its residents are Hispanic, and its population is growing quickly.
The city's population density is a bit lower than the national average. Hermiston's Chamber of Commerce reports that 37 percent of residents speak a language other than English at home. The city's unemployment rate is higher than average, at 15.6%. In addition to low unemployment, there are a few new businesses opening in the area, including a brewery and a health center.