Elections

Madison County, NE had 23,456 registered voters as of 2024, with major parties including Republican (58%), Democratic (24%), and Nonpartisan/Other (18%). The county conducts primary, general, and special elections, with 14 polling locations across cities like Norfolk and Madison. In the 2022 general election, 65% turnout was recorded, with Republicans securing most county offices. Election administration is handled by the Madison County Election Commissioner. Key issues include property taxes and rural development. Full election results and polling site details are available on the county website.

Demographics

As of 2022, Madison County, Nebraska, had a population of approximately 35,585. The median age is about 38.5 years, with 50.8% female and 49.2% male residents. The county's racial and ethnic composition is 81.6% White, 3.3% Black or African American, 1.2% Native American, 1.2% Asian, and 12.5% from other races; 22.9% of residents identify as Hispanic or Latino.

Education, Employment and Housing

Madison County, NE, hosts 21 public schools serving about 6,000 students, with a high school graduation rate of 92% and around 21% of adults holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. The county features Norfolk Senior High and Madison High among its prominent high schools. Average standardized test scores are close to the state mean. School safety is prioritized with comprehensive emergency protocols. Educational offerings include advanced placement, vocational, and dual-credit programs. Adult education is supported by Northeast Community College, which enrolls approximately 5,000 learners annually in credit and non-credit courses.

As of 2023, Madison County, NE, has an employment rate of approximately 64.7%. The leading industries are health care and social assistance (18%), manufacturing (16%), and retail trade (13%). Major occupation types include production (11%), office and administrative support (10%), and sales (9%). About 80% of residents commute by car with an average travel time of 17 minutes, and around 65% of workers are employed within the county, particularly in the cities of Norfolk and Madison.

Madison County, NE, has a homeownership rate of around 68%, with median home values near $175,000 in 2023. Median gross rent is approximately $830 per month. The housing market has seen a 5% increase in property values year-over-year. Most homes are single-family, but there are also duplexes and apartments, especially in towns like Norfolk. Popular neighborhoods include Woodland Park and Downtown Norfolk. Property tax rates average 1.7% of assessed value, higher than the national average.

County Crime & Safety

Madison County, NE reports a moderate crime rate compared to state averages. In 2023, the county recorded approximately 215 total reported crimes, including 28 violent crimes and 187 property crimes, yielding a crime rate of 1,175 per 100,000 residents—lower than the national average. The Madison County Sheriff’s Office emphasizes community policing and encourages public reporting of suspicious activities, contributing to a generally safe environment. Residents benefit from responsive emergency services and active crime prevention programs.