Brown County Public RecordsNebraska

As of the 2020 Census, Brown County, Nebraska, had a population of 2,903. The median age was 49.3 years, with 23.5% under 18 and 27.8% aged 65 or older. The gender distribution was approximately 50.5% male and 49.5% female. Racially, the county was 95.6% White, 0.3% Black or African American, 0.7% Native American, 0.2% Asian, and 1.8% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents comprised 2.1% of the population.

Brown County, Nebraska, has approximately 2,000 registered voters as of 2022, predominantly Republican (over 70%), with Democratic and nonpartisan voters making up the rest. Elections include local, state, and federal contests, with turnout in the 2020 general election exceeding 75%. The Brown County Clerk administers elections, and polling locations include the Brown County Courthouse in Ainsworth. Past results typically favor Republican candidates by large margins. Key issues often include agriculture, taxes, and rural services. Voter registration and election information is managed by the Nebraska Secretary of State, ensuring transparent and secure processes.

Brown County, NE, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported approximately 8 property crimes and 2 violent crimes per 1,000 residents, significantly below the national rate. Local law enforcement emphasizes community-oriented policing, with a clearance rate of over 70% for major crimes. Regular reporting and cooperation with the Nebraska Crime Commission support ongoing safety initiatives. Residents generally experience safe neighborhoods, but authorities recommend vigilance and prompt crime reporting for continued community security.

Brown County, NE, has 3 public schools, including one high school—Ainsworth High—with a graduation rate of approximately 94%. About 90.4% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 18.9% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools in the county report above-average safety, and offer career and technical education programs. The average student-teacher ratio is 11:1, and standardized test scores are on par with state averages. Adult education opportunities are available locally, supporting lifelong learning and workforce development.

As of 2022, Brown County, NE had an employment rate of 57.2% among its adult population. Key industries include Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing & Hunting (33.7%), Health Care & Social Assistance (14.8%), and Retail Trade (9.9%). The most common occupation types are Management (23%), Office & Administrative Support (12.7%), and Production (11.9%). Around 80% of employed residents work within the county, while the remainder commute to surrounding areas. The median commute time is 12.9 minutes, reflecting the county’s rural nature and local employment opportunities.

Brown County, NE, has a homeownership rate of about 74%, with median home values near $90,000 and median gross rents around $650. The housing market is stable, with slow but steady value increases of roughly 2% annually. Housing types are mostly single-family homes and some multi-unit rentals, largely in small towns like Ainsworth, the county seat. Property taxes average 1.7% of assessed value, slightly above the national rate. Neighborhoods are small, close-knit, and rural, offering affordable options and a low cost of living compared to state and national averages.