Nelson County, North Dakota Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Nelson County is located in North Dakota with a total population of 3,015. It is the 34th most populous county out of 53 in North Dakota. The county encompasses 7 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Nelson County is 50.4 years. This is 41% higher than the state median of 35.7 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 Nelson County is $68,051. This is 10% lower than the state median of $75,949. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 13% lower. The poverty rate stands at 10.0%. This is 6% lower than the state poverty rate of 10.6%. The unemployment rate is 1.2%. This is 59% lower than the state rate of 2.8%. The median home value is $114,500. Housing costs are 53% lower than the state median of $241,100. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 1.7x, Nelson County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 76.9% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 21% higher than the state average of 63.4%.

Race & Ethnicity

Nelson County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 92.6% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 2.9%.

Education

28.1% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 13% 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 93.3%.