McLean County, North Dakota Demographics 2026

Population Overview

McLean County is located in North Dakota with a total population of 9,807. It is the 15th most populous county out of 53 in North Dakota. The county encompasses 11 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in McLean County is 47.4 years. This is 33% higher than the state median of 35.7 years. 10.4% 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 McLean County is $81,847. This is 8% higher than the state median of $75,949. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 4% higher. The poverty rate stands at 8.3%. This is 21% lower than the state poverty rate of 10.6%. The unemployment rate is 1.6%. This is 45% lower than the state rate of 2.8%. The median home value is $233,100. Housing costs are 3% lower than the state median of $241,100. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.8x, McLean County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 83.4% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 32% higher than the state average of 63.4%.

Race & Ethnicity

McLean County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 88.4% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 2.0%. The Black or African American population (0.2%) is well below the state average of 3.2%. The Hispanic or Latino population (2.0%) is well below the state average of 4.5%. The Asian population (0.4%) is well below the state average of 1.5%.

Education

23.9% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 26% lower than the state rate of 32.3%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 93.6%.