Nelson County, ND demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
3,016
0.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$67,193/yr
-1.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,783
-0.8% year-over-year change

Nelson County population

How many people live in Nelson County

Nelson County is home to 3,016 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.6% of Nelson County locals are male, and 49.4% are female.

Total population
3,016
0.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.6%
1,527
Female
49.4%
1,489
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,527 50.6% 1.2%
Female 1,489 49.4% -1.1%
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 Nelson County is 50, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.9% are children under 15, then 8.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 19.7% of the population, while another 26.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 28.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
50.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.9%
15 to 24
8.4%
25 to 44
19.7%
45 to 64
26.7%
Over 65
28.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 510 16.9% 3.9%
15 to 24 253 8.4% -4.5%
25 to 44 595 19.7% 1.4%
45 to 64 805 26.7% -3.2%
Over 65 853 28.3% 1.6%
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 Nelson County, 95.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 92.7% of locals are Caucasian, 0.5% are African American and 0.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.6%
Non-citizens
2.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 2,893 95.9% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 49 1.6% -16.9%
Non-citizens 74 2.4% 4.2%
Racial breakdown
White
92.7%
Black or African American
0.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.3%
Other
0.8%
Value Percent
White 2,795 92.7%
Black or African American 14 0.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 29 1%
Asian 22 0.7%
Two or more races 131 4.3%
Other 25 0.8%

Households in Nelson County

A peek inside Nelson County households

Nelson County has 1,338 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 59.9% are families, while the remaining 40.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,338
3.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
536
Family households
802
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 536 40.1% 6.3%
Family households 802 59.9% 1.4%
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 Nelson County

The housing landscape of Nelson County

Nelson County's housing consists of 1,783 units, with 83.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.2% 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 3.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,783
-0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,486 83.3%
1 unit, attached 3 0.2%
2 units 13 0.7%
3 or 4 units 58 3.2%
5 to 9 units 126 7.1%
10 to 19 units 26 1.5%
50 or more units 4 0.2%
Mobile home 67 3.8%
Homes built since 2020
1
0.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Nelson County

In Nelson County, the median construction year is 1963. About 26.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 479 26.9% -1.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 142 8% -5.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 207 11.6% 1.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 241 13.5% -12.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 318 17.8% -7.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 121 6.8% 14.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 91 5.1% 3.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 75 4.2% 27.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 108 6.1% 25.6%
Built in 2020 or later 1 0.1% 0.0%
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.

Nelson County occupancy rates

Out of the 1,338 occupied housing units in Nelson County, 75.1% are owner-occupied, while 24.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 25% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,338
3.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
333
Owner occupied
1,005
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 333 24.9% 11.4%
Owner occupied 1,005 75.1% 0.9%
Unoccupied housing units
25.0%
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.

Nelson County housing costs

Housing costs in Nelson County come to a median of $640 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $582.

Median housing costs per month
$640/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 Nelson County
$582/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 Nelson County

Nelson County education at a glance

About 31.2% of the population in Nelson County went to high school, while 22.4% pursued college studies. Another 16.7% earned an associate degree and 22.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 32 1.3% -21.9%
High school diploma 746 31.2% -8.2%
College diploma 535 22.4% 3.5%
Associate degree 399 16.7% 6.7%
Bachelor's degree 529 22.1% 8.0%
Graduate degree 150 6.3% -6.8%
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 Nelson County

How much people earn in Nelson County

The average annual household income in Nelson County was $100,705 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +14.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $67,193, reflecting a -1.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Nelson County
$100,705/year
14.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Nelson County
$67,193/year
-1.3% year-over-year change

Nelson County income by age

In Nelson County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $79,375. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $87,589 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $28,750, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $58,426 in earnings. Overall, 92.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $28,750 3.4%
25 - 44 $79,375 -7.8%
45 - 64 $87,589 5.6%
Over 65 $58,426 5.6%
Above poverty level
2,647
Below poverty level
204
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 2,647 92.8% 3.3%
Below poverty level 204 7.2% -29.2%

Employment in Nelson County

Workforce and job types in Nelson County

The job market in Nelson County is powered by 1,427 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 77.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 26.4% run their own businesses, 40.8% are employed by private companies, and 20% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,427
4.9% year-over-year change
White collar
1,106
Blue collar
321
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,106 77.5% 3.1%
Blue collar 321 22.5% 11.8%
Employer type
Self employees
26.4%
Private companies
40.8%
Governmental workers
20%
Not for profit companies
12.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 376 26.4% 14.6%
Private companies 583 40.8% -10.6%
Governmental workers 285 20% 25.6%
Not for profit companies 183 12.8% 19.6%
Unemployment rate
1.1%
0.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Nelson County stands at 1.1%, 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 Nelson County

How people get around in Nelson County

Commuting methods vary: 80.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 9.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,135 80.4% 7.2%
Bus or trolleybus 2 0.1% 0.0%
Bicycle 22 1.6% 4.8%
Walk 130 9.2% -8.4%
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 Nelson County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
58212 312 183 $60,972 $97,338
58224 28 12 $128,125 $113,167
58254 588 250 $86,563 $101,474
58259 393 222 $55,000 $66,660
58266 74 38 $88,889 $82,479
58272 177 71 $76,875 $97,455
58321 140 44 $95,000 $99,752
58344 1,115 442 $66,957 $116,750
58361 220 93 $131,106 $137,073
58380 423 191 $67,083 $73,177

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FAQs about Nelson County demographics 

What is the total population of Nelson County?

Nelson County has a total population of 3,016 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 +0.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Nelson County?

The gender ratio in Nelson County is as follows:
  • 50.6% males (1,527 residents)
  • 49.4% females (1,489 residents)

What is the median age in Nelson County?

The median age in Nelson County is 50.1.

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

The age distribution in Nelson County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.9% (510 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 8.4% (253 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 19.7% (595 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.7% (805 residents)
  • Over 65: 28.3% (853 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Nelson County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Nelson County is as follows:
  • White: 92.7% (2,795 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.5% (14 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1% (29 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (22 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.3% (131 residents)
  • Other: 0.8% (25 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.9% of the population in Nelson County.

How many housing units are there in Nelson County?

There are 1,783 housing units in Nelson County, reflecting a -0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Nelson County has a total of 1,338 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Nelson County?

Nelson County has a median household income of $67,193, representing a -1.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 98.9% in Nelson County, with a workforce of 1,427 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 77.5% (1,106 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22.5% (321 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 26.4% (376 residents)
  • Private companies: 40.8% (583 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20% (285 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.8% (183 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