Keith County, Nebraska Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Keith County is located in Nebraska with a total population of 8,239. It is the 35th most populous county out of 93 in Nebraska. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Keith County is 49.0 years. This is 32% higher than the state median of 37.1 years. 12.9% 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 Keith County is $58,132. This is 22% lower than the state median of $74,985. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 26% lower. The poverty rate stands at 10.7%. This is 4% higher than the state poverty rate of 10.3%. The unemployment rate is 2.0%. This is 32% lower than the state rate of 3.0%. The median home value is $157,000. Housing costs are 30% lower than the state median of $223,800. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.7x, Keith County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 70.8% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 6% higher than the state average of 66.5%.

Race & Ethnicity

Keith County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 86.1% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 9.0%. The Black or African American population (1.3%) is well below the state average of 4.6%. The Asian population (0.6%) is well below the state average of 2.5%.

Education

21.3% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 37% 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 90.8%.