Thayer County, Nebraska Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Thayer County is located in Nebraska with a total population of 4,938. It is the 56th most populous county out of 93 in Nebraska. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Thayer County is 46.2 years. This is 25% higher than the state median of 37.1 years. 11.0% 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 Thayer County is $63,095. This is 16% lower than the state median of $74,985. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 20% lower. The poverty rate stands at 9.0%. This is 13% lower than the state poverty rate of 10.3%. The unemployment rate is 3.0%. This is 1% higher than the state rate of 3.0%. The median home value is $106,200. Housing costs are 53% lower than the state median of $223,800. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 1.7x, Thayer County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 75.6% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 14% higher than the state average of 66.5%.

Race & Ethnicity

Thayer County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 93.4% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 3.1%. The Black or African American population (0.1%) is well below the state average of 4.6%. The Hispanic or Latino population (3.1%) is well below the state average of 12.3%. The Asian population (0.0%) is well below the state average of 2.5%.

Education

23.0% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 33% 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 94.4%.