Brown County, Nebraska Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Brown County is located in Nebraska with a total population of 2,739. It is the 69th most populous county out of 93 in Nebraska. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Brown County is 45.9 years. This is 24% higher than the state median of 37.1 years. 11.9% of residents are 75 or older, suggesting a significant retirement-age population with implications for healthcare services and senior housing.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Brown County is $51,538. This is 31% lower than the state median of $74,985. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 34% lower. The poverty rate stands at 12.2%. This is 18% higher than the state poverty rate of 10.3%. The unemployment rate is 0.8%. This is 73% lower than the state rate of 3.0%. The median home value is $100,200. Housing costs are 55% lower than the state median of $223,800. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 1.9x, Brown County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 73.8% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 11% higher than the state average of 66.5%.

Race & Ethnicity

Brown County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 89.1% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 5.8%. The Black or African American population (0.0%) is well below the state average of 4.6%. The Hispanic or Latino population (5.8%) is well below the state average of 12.3%. The Asian population (0.0%) is well below the state average of 2.5%.

Education

21.2% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 38% lower than the state rate of 34.1%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 92.3%.