Keith County Public RecordsNebraska

As of the 2020 Census, Keith County, Nebraska, had a population of 8,335. The median age was 47.0 years, with 21.2% under 18 and 24.2% aged 65 and over. The gender split was approximately 50.3% male and 49.7% female. The racial makeup was 93.5% White, 0.8% Black or African American, 0.6% Native American, 0.3% Asian, and 3.7% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents accounted for 7.7% of the population.

Keith County, Nebraska, had 5,225 registered voters in 2022, with a Republican majority (about 75%), Democrats (13%), and nonpartisan/others (12%). The county participates in federal, state, and local elections, with recent 2020 presidential results showing Donald Trump receiving 83% of the vote. Major polling locations include Ogallala and Brule. Voting is overseen by the Keith County Election Commissioner. Local election issues often include agriculture and rural infrastructure. Registered parties include Republican, Democratic, and Libertarian. In-person voting is standard, with mail-in ballots available upon request.

Keith County, NE, hosts 6 public schools, including Ogallala High School, serving grades PK-12. The high school graduation rate is about 92%, while approximately 22% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average school proficiency score is 55% for math and 58% for reading. Adult education opportunities are available through Mid-Plains Community College's Ogallala campus. School safety is a priority, with incidents significantly below the state average. Educational programs include advanced placement (AP), vocational training, and special education services to support diverse learners.

As of 2022, Keith County, NE had an unemployment rate of 2.0%. Employment is mainly in education, health care, and social assistance (21%), retail trade (14%), and accommodation & food services (12%). Major occupation types are management, business, science, and arts (29%), sales and office (22%), and service occupations (20%). About 79% of residents work within Keith County, while approximately 21% commute outside, with an average commute time of 14.2 minutes. Agriculture and related industries also play a significant role in the local employment landscape.

Keith County, NE has a homeownership rate of approximately 73%, with a median home value around $176,000 in 2023. Rental units make up about 27% of housing, with a median gross rent near $900 per month. The market has seen moderate growth, with property values increasing by 5% year-over-year. Housing types are mainly single-family homes, with some apartments and mobile homes. Key neighborhoods include Ogallala and Keystone. Property tax rates average 1.43%, making annual taxes about $2,517 on a median-priced home.

Keith County, NE, reports a moderate crime rate compared to state averages. As of 2023, the total crime rate stands at around 18.2 per 1,000 residents, with property crimes (such as theft and burglary) making up about 80% of incidents. Violent crime, including assault and robbery, is relatively rare, with fewer than 2 incidents per 1,000 residents. Local law enforcement maintains regular reporting, emphasizing community engagement and proactive patrols to enhance safety. Overall, Keith County remains one of Nebraska's safer regions, with crime rates below many national benchmarks.