Harlan County, Nebraska Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Harlan County is located in Nebraska with a total population of 3,006. It is the 65th most populous county out of 93 in Nebraska. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Harlan County is 47.1 years. This is 27% higher than the state median of 37.1 years. 12.6% 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 Harlan County is $70,536. This is 6% lower than the state median of $74,985. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 10% lower. The poverty rate stands at 7.2%. This is 30% lower than the state poverty rate of 10.3%. The unemployment rate is 1.7%. This is 45% lower than the state rate of 3.0%. The median home value is $147,200. Housing costs are 34% lower than the state median of $223,800. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.1x, Harlan County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 84.8% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 27% higher than the state average of 66.5%.

Race & Ethnicity

Harlan County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 93.6% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 2.3%. The Black or African American population (0.2%) is well below the state average of 4.6%. The Hispanic or Latino population (2.3%) is well below the state average of 12.3%.

Education

24.2% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 29% 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 92.5%.