Nobles County, MN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
22,041
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$66,101/yr
0.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,396
-0.0% year-over-year change

Nobles County population

How many people live in Nobles County

Nobles County is home to 22,041 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 52.5% of Nobles County locals are male, and 47.5% are female.

Total population
22,041
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
52.5%
11,572
Female
47.5%
10,469
Value Percent YoY change
Male 11,572 52.5% 1.6%
Female 10,469 47.5% -1.9%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Nobles County is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 24.3% are children under 15, then 13.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23% of the population, while another 21.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
24.3%
15 to 24
13.8%
25 to 44
23%
45 to 64
21.7%
Over 65
17.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,358 24.3% 1.6%
15 to 24 3,034 13.8% -0.6%
25 to 44 5,081 23% 0.1%
45 to 64 4,779 21.7% -1.6%
Over 65 3,789 17.2% -0.6%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Nobles County, 76.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 10% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 13.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 56.2% of locals are Caucasian, 5.2% are African American and 4.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 14.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
76.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
10%
Non-citizens
13.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 16,854 76.5% -0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,208 10% 12.9%
Non-citizens 2,979 13.5% -7.5%
Racial breakdown
White
56.2%
Black or African American
5.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
3.2%
Asian
4.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
14.2%
Other
17%
Value Percent
White 12,383 56.2%
Black or African American 1,148 5.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 695 3.2%
Asian 934 4.2%
Two or more races 3,130 14.2%
Other 3,751 17%

Households in Nobles County

A peek inside Nobles County households

Nobles County has 7,674 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 67.3% are families, while the remaining 32.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,674
-0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,512
Family households
5,162
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,512 32.7% -0.7%
Family households 5,162 67.3% 0.1%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Nobles County

The housing landscape of Nobles County

Nobles County's housing consists of 8,396 units, with 79.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.1% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 1.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,396
-0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,665 79.4%
1 unit, attached 264 3.1%
2 units 118 1.4%
3 or 4 units 184 2.2%
5 to 9 units 82 1%
10 to 19 units 316 3.8%
20 to 49 units 302 3.6%
50 or more units 318 3.8%
Mobile home 147 1.8%
Homes built since 2020
24
9.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Nobles County

In Nobles County, the median construction year is 1967. About 22.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,926 22.9% -1.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 521 6.2% 0.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,149 13.7% 8.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 845 10.1% 1.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,559 18.6% -7.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 630 7.5% -2.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 720 8.6% -9.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 516 6.2% 19.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 506 6% 15.5%
Built in 2020 or later 24 0.3% 9.1%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Nobles County occupancy rates

Out of the 7,674 occupied housing units in Nobles County, 74.2% are owner-occupied, while 25.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,674
-0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,982
Owner occupied
5,692
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,982 25.8% -8.2%
Owner occupied 5,692 74.2% 2.9%
Unoccupied housing units
8.6%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Nobles County housing costs

Housing costs in Nobles County come to a median of $875 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $896.

Median housing costs per month
$875/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Nobles County
$896/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Nobles County

Nobles County education at a glance

About 39.8% of the population in Nobles County went to high school, while 20.8% pursued college studies. Another 10.9% earned an associate degree and 11.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,911 12.2% -11.6%
High school diploma 6,226 39.8% 0.5%
College diploma 3,262 20.8% 7.0%
Associate degree 1,713 10.9% -3.5%
Bachelor's degree 1,851 11.8% -5.7%
Graduate degree 695 4.4% 9.8%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Nobles County

How much people earn in Nobles County

The average annual household income in Nobles County was $87,038 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $66,101, reflecting a +0.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Nobles County
$87,038/year
4.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Nobles County
$66,101/year
0.9% year-over-year change

Nobles County income by age

In Nobles County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $72,181. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $70,449 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $58,542, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $55,273 in earnings. Overall, 86.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $58,542 -8.6%
25 - 44 $72,181 7.7%
45 - 64 $70,449 -9.3%
Over 65 $55,273 7.9%
Above poverty level
18,447
Below poverty level
2,923
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 18,447 86.3% -1.4%
Below poverty level 2,923 13.7% 8.9%

Employment in Nobles County

Workforce and job types in Nobles County

The job market in Nobles County is powered by 9,941 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 62% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 38% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.8% run their own businesses, 64.7% are employed by private companies, and 16.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,941
-3.0% year-over-year change
White collar
6,158
Blue collar
3,783
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,158 62% -3.5%
Blue collar 3,783 38% -2.0%
Employer type
Self employees
11.8%
Private companies
64.7%
Governmental workers
16.3%
Not for profit companies
7.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,177 11.8% 0.3%
Private companies 6,433 64.7% -5.0%
Governmental workers 1,623 16.3% 15.8%
Not for profit companies 708 7.1% -21.2%
Unemployment rate
3.2%
21.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Nobles County stands at 3.2%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Nobles County

How people get around in Nobles County

In Nobles County, the average commute time is 20 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 87.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
20 min
2.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 8,560 87.4% -2.1%
Bus or trolleybus 160 1.6% 44.1%
Bicycle 26 0.3% -3.7%
Walk 321 3.3% -31.4%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Nobles County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
56110 1,633 643 $77,875 $90,543
56117 400 155 $63,438 $97,204
56119 1,188 400 $83,583 $95,954
56129 761 271 $62,614 $97,163
56131 2,238 961 $73,063 $84,349
56147 135 64 $66,250 $98,333
56153 173 58 $78,750 $93,688
56155 411 186 $59,363 $82,889
56158 322 142 $53,462 $72,930
56165 333 137 $106,250 $117,077

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FAQs about Nobles County demographics 

What is the total population of Nobles County?

Nobles County has a total population of 22,041 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Nobles County?

The gender ratio in Nobles County is as follows:
  • 52.5% males (11,572 residents)
  • 47.5% females (10,469 residents)

What is the median age in Nobles County?

The median age in Nobles County is 35.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Nobles County?

The age distribution in Nobles County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 24.3% (5,358 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.8% (3,034 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23% (5,081 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.7% (4,779 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.2% (3,789 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Nobles County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Nobles County is as follows:
  • White: 56.2% (12,383 residents)
  • Black or African American: 5.2% (1,148 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 3.2% (695 residents)
  • Asian: 4.2% (934 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 14.2% (3,130 residents)
  • Other: 17% (3,751 residents)

What percentage of the population in Nobles County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 76.5% of the population in Nobles County.

How many housing units are there in Nobles County?

There are 8,396 housing units in Nobles County, reflecting a -0.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Nobles County and what is the average household size?

Nobles County has a total of 7,674 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Nobles County?

Nobles County has a median household income of $66,101, representing a +0.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Nobles County?

The employment rate is 96.8% in Nobles County, with a workforce of 9,941 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 62% (6,158 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 38% (3,783 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.8% (1,177 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.7% (6,433 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.3% (1,623 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.1% (708 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025