County Crime & Safety

Stanton County, NE, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. In 2022, the county recorded approximately 45 total offenses, mostly related to property crimes, with violent crimes remaining minimal (less than 5 incidents). The crime rate is around 7 per 1,000 residents, significantly lower than the state average. Local law enforcement actively promotes crime reporting and community policing, contributing to a high clearance rate of over 80%. Overall, Stanton County is considered a safe community with proactive safety measures and thorough incident reporting.

Education, Employment and Housing

Stanton County, NE, has 3 public schools, including Stanton High School and elementary facilities, serving approximately 650 students. Around 89% of adults have a high school diploma, and about 15% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average standardized test scores are near the Nebraska state average. School safety is prioritized with anti-bullying initiatives and security upgrades. Educational programs include vocational training, dual-credit, and adult learning classes, fostering lifelong education and skill development for residents.

As of 2022, Stanton County, NE, had an employment rate of approximately 65.8%. The leading industries are agriculture (21%), manufacturing (15%), and education/health services (14%). The most common occupations include production (18%), management (15%), and office/administrative support (12%). About 82% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 21 minutes; over 45% of residents work outside the county, mainly in Norfolk. Unemployment remained low, near 2.5%, reflecting broad workforce participation.

Stanton County, NE, has a homeownership rate of approximately 80%, with median home values around $130,000 and median gross rents near $750. The property market has seen modest annual growth of about 3% in recent years. Housing consists mainly of single-family homes, with some multi-family units. Popular neighborhoods include Stanton and Pilger, known for their quiet, rural charm. Property tax rates average 1.6% of assessed value, aligning with Nebraska’s statewide average. The area remains affordable compared to larger cities, making it attractive for families and retirees.

Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Stanton County, Nebraska, had a population of 6,129. The median age was approximately 41.3 years. The gender distribution was nearly balanced, with 50.2% male and 49.8% female. The racial makeup was predominantly White (93.5%), followed by Other Races (3.4%), Two or More Races (2.6%), and smaller representations of Black, Asian, and Native American. Hispanic or Latino residents comprised about 7.4% of the population, reflecting moderate ethnic diversity within the county.

Elections

Stanton County, Nebraska, has about 4,440 residents and approximately 2,900 registered voters as of 2024. Elections include local, state, and federal races, with the county predominantly voting Republican—over 75% in recent presidential elections. There are 7 polling locations across the county. Key issues include agriculture, rural healthcare, and education funding. Voter administration is overseen by the Stanton County Clerk’s office. Major parties are Republican and Democratic, with over 65% registered as Republicans, 20% Democrats, and the rest nonpartisan or third party. Voter turnout in general elections averages 62%.