Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Saunders County, Nebraska, had a population of 22,278. The median age was 41.6 years, with 49.6% male and 50.4% female residents. Racially, the county is predominantly White (95.7%), with small proportions of Hispanic or Latino (2.6%), two or more races (1.5%), and other groups such as Black or African American (0.4%), Asian (0.3%), and Native American (0.3%).

County Crime & Safety

Saunders County, NE, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported a total of 180 crimes, including 12 violent crimes and 168 property crimes, according to FBI data. The violent crime rate stood at approximately 1.2 per 1,000 residents, while property crime was 17.3 per 1,000. Local law enforcement emphasizes community policing and prompt reporting, contributing to lower crime rates. Regular safety reports and statistical tracking ensure residents remain informed and engaged in maintaining public safety.

Elections

Saunders County, NE, had 13,564 registered voters as of 2024, with approximately 55% Republican, 20% Democrat, and 25% nonpartisan/other. The county holds primary, general, and special elections, with the most recent general election (2022) showing GOP candidates winning county offices by a margin of over 60%. Voting takes place at 13 polling locations, including schools and community centers. Key issues in recent elections included property taxes and school funding. The election is administered by the Saunders County Clerk’s Office, ensuring transparency and adherence to Nebraska’s electoral laws.

Education, Employment and Housing

Saunders County, NE, has approximately 8 public K-12 schools, with a high school graduation rate near 94%. Around 20% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, below the national average. Schools in the county score an average of 7/10 on public school review sites. School safety is considered above average, with few reported incidents annually. Adult education opportunities include GED and community college courses, primarily through Southeast Community College. Educational programs in STEM and vocational training are available, supporting career readiness for students and adults alike.

Saunders County, NE, has an employment rate of approximately 65.3%. Major industries include Education & Health Services (21%), Manufacturing (15%), and Retail Trade (11%). Most common occupations are in management, sales, and office/administration roles. About 85% of employed residents commute to work, with an average commute time of 25 minutes. A significant portion, nearly 60%, work outside the county, notably in Lincoln and Omaha. The labor force participation rate is around 67%, with an unemployment rate consistently below 2.5%.

Saunders County, NE has a homeownership rate around 80%, notably higher than the national average. Median home values are approximately $235,000 as of 2023, reflecting a steady market increase over recent years. Typical housing includes single-family homes, with some apartments and townhomes, especially in Wahoo and Ashland. Gross median rent stands at about $980 per month. Neighborhoods are largely suburban and rural, featuring quiet streets and family-friendly environments. Property tax rates average 1.7% of home value, resulting in annual taxes near $4,000 for median-priced homes.