Hooker County, Nebraska Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Hooker County is located in Nebraska with a total population of 613. It is the 89th most populous county out of 93 in Nebraska.

Age Demographics

The median age in Hooker County is 44.8 years. This is 21% higher than the state median of 37.1 years. 15.2% 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 Hooker County is $45,854. This is 39% lower than the state median of $74,985. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 42% lower. The poverty rate stands at 7.7%. This is 26% lower than the state poverty rate of 10.3%. The unemployment rate is 3.9%. This is 32% higher than the state rate of 3.0%. The median home value is $85,400. Housing costs are 62% lower than the state median of $223,800. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 1.9x, Hooker County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 59.9% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 10% lower than the state average of 66.5%.

Race & Ethnicity

Hooker County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 87.1% of all residents. Black or African American residents account for 1.8%. The Black or African American population (1.8%) is well below the state average of 4.6%.

Education

20.8% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 39% 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 93.7%.