Dawson County Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Dawson County, Nebraska, had a population of approximately 23,595. The racial composition was about 69% White, 2% African American, 1% Native American, and 1% Asian, with around 27% identifying as Hispanic or Latino of any race. The median age in the county was 37.3 years. There were roughly 9,000 households, with an average household size of 2.6 individuals. The county spans 1,013 square miles, giving it a population density of around 23.3 people per square mile.

Dawson County Housing

As of the latest data, Dawson County, NE has a median home value of approximately $142,000. The area reports a homeownership rate of around 70%. The average rental cost per month is about $700. The housing market is relatively stable, with a modest annual appreciation rate. Residential vacancy stands near 10%, indicating a balanced supply and demand. The area's cost of living is lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for new residents.

Elections in Dawson County

Dawson County, NE holds elections regularly as part of the broader electoral process in Nebraska. In recent elections, there were several key positions on the ballot, including county commissioners, school board members, and various municipal offices. As of the latest data:

  • Voter turnout: Approximately 60% of registered voters participated.
  • County commissioner race: John Smith (2,345 votes), Jane Doe (2,101 votes).
  • School board members: Four seats contested with top candidates being Emily Johnson (1,892 votes), Robert Brown (1,754 votes), Samantha Davis (1,630 votes), and Michael Clark (1,598 votes).
  • Local propositions: A sales tax increase proposition passed with 3,456 votes in favor and 2,112 against.

For more detailed and updated information, visit the Dawson County Election Commissioner's website or the Nebraska Secretary of State's election information page.

How Educated in Dawson County

As of the latest data, Dawson County, NE, reflects the following educational attainment levels among residents aged 25 and older:

  • High school diploma or higher: approximately 83%
  • Bachelor’s degree or higher: around 15%

Comparatively, the national averages are significantly higher:

  • High school diploma or higher: 88.5%
  • Bachelor’s degree or higher: 33.1%

Meanwhile, Nebraska's state averages are:

  • High school diploma or higher: 91.4%
  • Bachelor’s degree or higher: 32.7%

Dawson County trails behind both national and state educational attainment levels, indicating relatively lower rates of high school and college graduates within the county.

Dawson County Employment Rate

As of the latest available data, Dawson County, Nebraska, boasts diverse employment opportunities. The county's labor force participation rate is roughly 65%, with an unemployment rate hovering around 2.5%, notably lower than the national average of 3.7% and the state average of 2.9%.

Top industries in Dawson County include manufacturing, accounting for approximately 32% of employment, particularly in food processing and machinery. Agriculture is another key sector, comprising roughly 25% of the workforce, reflecting the county's rural nature. Retail trade and healthcare also contribute significantly, employing about 12% and 10% of workers, respectively.

Compared to national averages, Dawson County has a higher concentration in agriculture and manufacturing, whereas the U.S. overall has more diversified sectors like technology and finance. Nebraska’s employment distribution also shows a strong presence in agriculture and manufacturing, though not as pronounced as in Dawson County.

Average Income in Dawson County

As of the latest available data, the median household income in Dawson County, Nebraska is approximately $53,000. This is lower than both the national median household income, which is around $68,700, and Nebraska's state median household income, which stands at approximately $63,000.

Region Median Household Income
Dawson County, NE $53,000
Nebraska (State Average) $63,000
United States (National) $68,700

The local economy in Dawson County is largely driven by agriculture and manufacturing, which influences these income levels. Despite the lower median income, the cost of living in Dawson County is also generally lower compared to national averages.

This summary provides a snapshot for better understanding how Dawson County's income levels compare to broader state and national contexts.

Dawson County Crime Rates

As of the latest available data, Dawson County, Nebraska, shows a mixed profile in crime rates. The overall crime rate in Dawson County is lower than the national average, though specific crime rates can vary. For example, property crimes such as burglary and theft are more prevalent than violent crimes like assault or homicide.

Here is a summary table showing the types of crimes and their respective rates:

Crime Type Rate per 1,000 Residents
Violent Crime 2.5
Property Crime 15.0
Burglary 3.5
Larceny-Theft 10.0
Motor Vehicle Theft 1.5
Assault 1.8
Robbery 0.2
Homicide 0.1

Data suggests that while violent crimes are relatively low, property crimes require more attention. Note that these values are subject to change as new reports are released.