Jefferson County, Nebraska Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Jefferson County is located in Nebraska with a total population of 7,155. It is the 40th most populous county out of 93 in Nebraska. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Jefferson County is 44.7 years. This is 20% higher than the state median of 37.1 years. 11.1% 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 Jefferson County is $60,568. This is 19% lower than the state median of $74,985. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 23% lower. The poverty rate stands at 9.9%. This is 4% lower than the state poverty rate of 10.3%. The unemployment rate is 1.1%. This is 64% lower than the state rate of 3.0%. The median home value is $117,600. Housing costs are 47% lower than the state median of $223,800. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 1.9x, Jefferson County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 72.2% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 8% higher than the state average of 66.5%.

Race & Ethnicity

Jefferson County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 91.1% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 5.3%. The Black or African American population (0.6%) is well below the state average of 4.6%. The Hispanic or Latino population (5.3%) is well below the state average of 12.3%. The Asian population (0.0%) is well below the state average of 2.5%.

Education

19.7% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 42% 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 93.1%.