Thomas County Public RecordsNebraska

Thomas County, NE, has limited educational facilities, with only 1 public K-12 school district—Thedford Public Schools. The high school graduation rate is approximately 94%, but only about 19% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, below state average. School safety is rated above average, with minimal reported incidents. Educational programs focus on core academics with some vocational offerings, and Adult Education opportunities are scarce locally. The average standardized test score for the district typically falls close to the state mean.

As of 2022, Thomas County, NE, had an employment rate of approximately 61.6% among residents aged 16 and over. The leading industry is agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting, employing about 40% of the workforce, followed by education, health care, and social assistance (18%). Management, business, science, and arts occupations comprise around 32% of jobs. Most workers (75%) drive alone to work, with an average commute time of 11.2 minutes, and the majority are employed within the county, reflecting its rural character and localized employment opportunities.

Thomas County, NE, has a high homeownership rate of about 77%, with median home values around $93,000 as of 2022. Rental options are limited, reflecting the county’s rural setting and low population density; median gross rents are approximately $690 monthly. Most homes are single-family detached houses, primarily in small communities like Thedford. Property values have remained relatively stable, with slight appreciation in recent years. Property tax rates average 1.34% of home value, higher than the national average. Neighborhoods are close-knit, with spacious lots and predominantly owner-occupied residences.

As of the 2020 Census, Thomas County, Nebraska had a population of 669. The median age was about 50 years, indicating an older population. Around 52% were male and 48% female. The county is predominantly White (over 97%), with very small percentages of Native American, Asian, and other races; individuals of Hispanic or Latino origin account for approximately 1.5% of residents. The population density is low, reflective of its rural character.

Thomas County, Nebraska, is known for its exceptionally low crime rate. According to recent FBI data, the county recorded zero violent crimes and only 4 property crimes in 2022, resulting in a crime rate of 388 per 100,000 residents—far below state and national averages. Law enforcement presence remains strong, with regular patrols and community outreach programs. Crime reporting is efficient, and the county’s safe environment reflects the proactive efforts of local authorities and community engagement, making Thomas County one of the safest rural areas in Nebraska.

Thomas County, Nebraska, had 532 registered voters as of 2022, with Republicans comprising about 90%, Democrats 7%, and nonpartisan 3%. The county conducts general, primary, and special elections, primarily at the Thomas County Courthouse in Thedford. In the 2020 presidential election, over 85% voted Republican. Elections are overseen by the Thomas County Clerk. Voter concerns typically include agriculture policies and rural infrastructure. Two main parties—Republican and Democratic—are represented, but Republicans dominate local results. Voter turnout often exceeds 70%, reflecting strong civic engagement in this small, rural county.