Webster County Public RecordsNebraska

As of the 2020 Census, Webster County, Nebraska, had a population of 3,411. The median age was 47.6 years, with 22% under 18 and 24% age 65 or older. The population was 50.2% female and 49.8% male. Racially, the county was 95.7% White, 1.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.5% African American, 0.3% Native American, and 1.8% from two or more races.

Webster County, NE, had 2,345 registered voters as of 2022, with 58% Republican, 18% Democrat, 24% Nonpartisan. The county administers federal, state, local, and school board elections, with the Red Cloud Community Center and Bladen Village Hall as primary polling locations. In the 2020 Presidential election, Webster County voters supported the Republican candidate with 77.1% of the vote. Election administration is overseen by the County Clerk, addressing issues like ballot access and voter ID compliance. Voters’ main concerns include agricultural policy and rural healthcare access. The county consistently favors Republican candidates.

Webster County, Nebraska maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported 32 total crimes, including 2 violent crimes and 30 property crimes, according to the Nebraska Crime Commission. The crime rate stands at approximately 7.1 crimes per 1,000 residents, well below the state average. The Webster County Sheriff's Office actively reports and investigates incidents, supporting community safety efforts. Residents generally consider the area safe, with infrequent major offenses and responsive law enforcement presence.

Webster County, NE, has a limited number of schools, with 2 main public school districts serving K-12 students. High school graduation rate is approximately 91%, while only about 19% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety is generally strong, with low reported incidents. Educational programs focus on basic academics and some vocational training. Adult education opportunities are available, often in partnership with regional colleges. Average standardized test scores are close to state averages. Due to its rural nature, specialized programs are fewer than in urban areas, but community involvement in education remains strong.

As of 2022, Webster County, NE had an employment rate of approximately 56.4%. Major industries include agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting (25%), health care and social assistance (13%), and educational services (10%). The most common occupations are management, business, science, and arts (28%), as well as production, transportation, and material moving (20%). Nearly 73% of workers commute alone by car, with an average commute time of 19 minutes, and the majority work within the county or neighboring areas such as Adams and Hall counties.

Webster County, NE, has a homeownership rate of about 77%, with median home values around $93,000 in 2023. Rental occupancy is low, with median rents approximately $681 monthly. The housing stock consists mainly of single-family homes, with few apartment complexes. Key communities include Red Cloud and Bladen, featuring quiet, rural neighborhoods. Property values have remained stable, with slight annual increases of 2-3%. Property taxes average 1.5% of assessed value, aligning with state norms. The county offers affordable, spacious housing ideal for families and retirees seeking a small-town atmosphere.