Chase County Public RecordsNebraska

As of 2022, Chase County, Nebraska has a population of approximately 3,893 people. The median age is about 41.3 years, with 23.5% under 18 and 21% aged 65 or older. The gender distribution is roughly 50.5% male and 49.5% female. The racial and ethnic makeup is predominantly White (91.8%), with Hispanic or Latino residents comprising 14.2%. Other races—African American, Native American, Asian, and two or more races—each make up less than 2% of the population.

Chase County, Nebraska, has approximately 2,300 registered voters, with a strong Republican majority—over 78% registered Republican as of 2022. Elections include local, state, federal, school board, and special issues, with the Chase County Clerk administering polling at county courthouse and community sites. In the 2020 presidential election, over 80% voted Republican, under 18% Democratic. Voter turnout often exceeds 60%. Major issues include agriculture and rural healthcare. Polling locations include the Imperial city office and local town halls. The county consistently leans Republican, influencing county governance and policy priorities.

Chase County, NE, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. According to recent FBI data, the total crime rate is approximately 400 incidents per 100,000 residents annually, with violent crimes making up less than 5% of reported cases. Property crimes—primarily theft and burglary—account for most offenses. Local law enforcement emphasizes community policing and prompt reporting, contributing to a high clearance rate. Residents generally consider Chase County safe, with only 1–2 violent crime cases reported each year and fewer than 20 property crime incidents annually.

Chase County, NE has 4 public schools, including Chase County High School. Approximately 89% of adults have a high school diploma and 22% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average test scores in the county are slightly above the Nebraska state average. The student-teacher ratio is about 14:1, and schools offer programs in agriculture, STEM, and career tech. School safety measures are strong, with less than 1% of students involved in disciplinary incidents annually. Adult education and GED programs are available through community partners.

As of 2022, Chase County, NE had an employment rate of 60.4%, with agriculture employing 27.2% of the workforce, followed by education/healthcare (16.5%), and retail trade (11.1%). Leading occupations are management (28%), sales/office (18%), and production/transportation (17.2%). The median commute time is 13.7 minutes, with 79% driving alone and 11% carpooling. Most workers are employed locally in Chase County, while about 18% commute to neighboring counties such as Perkins and Dundy for work.

Chase County, NE, has a homeownership rate of about 78%, with median home values around $98,000 as of 2023. The median rent is roughly $675 per month. Property values have shown gradual growth but remain below state averages, reflecting a stable market. Housing types are primarily single-family homes, with some multifamily residences, especially in Imperial, the county seat. Neighborhoods are quiet, rural, and community-oriented. The average property tax rate is approximately 1.26%, resulting in an annual tax of about $1,230 on a median-priced home. Rental opportunities are limited compared to homeownership.