Dakota County, Nebraska Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Dakota County is located in Nebraska with a total population of 21,331. It is the 16th most populous county out of 93 in Nebraska. The county encompasses 2 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Dakota County is 32.1 years. This is 13% lower than the state median of 37.1 years. With 29.3% of the population under 18, Dakota County has a notably young demographic profile, suggesting a family-oriented community.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Dakota County is $71,655. This is 4% lower than the state median of $74,985. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 9% lower. The poverty rate stands at 11.2%. This is 8% higher than the state poverty rate of 10.3%. The unemployment rate is 4.3%. This is 43% higher than the state rate of 3.0%. The median home value is $168,100. Housing costs are 25% lower than the state median of $223,800. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.3x, Dakota County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 64.6% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 3% lower than the state average of 66.5%.

Race & Ethnicity

Dakota County is a highly diverse community where no single racial or ethnic group constitutes a majority of the population. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 41.2%. The Black or African American population is significantly higher than the state average (8.1% vs 4.6%). The Hispanic or Latino population is significantly higher than the state average (41.2% vs 12.3%).

Education

15.1% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is among the lowest rates in the state, which may correlate with employment and income patterns. This is 56% 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 81.1%.