Buffalo County, NE demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
50,579
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$75,911/yr
1.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
21,286
0.5% year-over-year change

Buffalo County population

How many people live in Buffalo County

Buffalo County is home to 50,579 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.4% of Buffalo County locals are male, and 49.6% are female.

Total population
50,579
0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.4%
25,490
Female
49.6%
25,089
Value Percent YoY change
Male 25,490 50.4% 0.7%
Female 25,089 49.6% 0.3%
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 Buffalo County is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.8% are children under 15, then 18.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.3% of the population, while another 20.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.8%
15 to 24
18.4%
25 to 44
25.3%
45 to 64
20.9%
Over 65
16.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 9,521 18.8% -1.1%
15 to 24 9,321 18.4% -0.1%
25 to 44 12,787 25.3% 0.5%
45 to 64 10,556 20.9% -0.3%
Over 65 8,394 16.6% 4.3%
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 Buffalo County, 94.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 86.6% of locals are Caucasian, 0.9% are African American and 1.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.5% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 4.7% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 5.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.6%
Non-citizens
2.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 47,893 94.7% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,292 2.6% -5.1%
Non-citizens 1,394 2.8% 9.6%
Racial breakdown
White
86.6%
Black or African American
0.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
5.6%
Other
4.7%
Value Percent
White 43,775 86.6%
Black or African American 467 0.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 259 0.5%
Asian 827 1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 76 0.2%
Two or more races 2,812 5.6%
Other 2,363 4.7%

Households in Buffalo County

A peek inside Buffalo County households

Buffalo County has 19,984 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 58.8% are families, while the remaining 41.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
19,984
1.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
8,232
Family households
11,752
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 8,232 41.2% 5.1%
Family households 11,752 58.8% -0.7%
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 Buffalo County

The housing landscape of Buffalo County

Buffalo County's housing consists of 21,286 units, with 66.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.6% 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 5.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
21,286
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 14,175 66.6%
1 unit, attached 1,190 5.6%
2 units 555 2.6%
3 or 4 units 1,089 5.1%
5 to 9 units 942 4.4%
10 to 19 units 858 4%
20 to 49 units 847 4%
50 or more units 441 2.1%
Mobile home 1,189 5.6%
Homes built since 2020
321
80.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Buffalo County

In Buffalo County, the median construction year is 1980. About 14.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 12% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,173 14.9% 3.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 522 2.4% -24.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,344 6.3% -0.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,757 8.2% -3.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,840 18% -2.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,045 9.6% -2.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,988 14% -3.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,745 12.9% 4.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,551 12% 10.2%
Built in 2020 or later 321 1.5% 80.3%
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.

Buffalo County occupancy rates

Out of the 19,984 occupied housing units in Buffalo County, 66.4% are owner-occupied, while 33.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
19,984
1.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
6,715
Owner occupied
13,269
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 6,715 33.6% -2.0%
Owner occupied 13,269 66.4% 3.6%
Unoccupied housing units
6.1%
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.

Buffalo County housing costs

Housing costs in Buffalo County come to a median of $1,071 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $936.

Median housing costs per month
$1,071/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 Buffalo County
$936/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 Buffalo County

Buffalo County education at a glance

About 29.2% of the population in Buffalo County went to high school, while 29.5% pursued college studies. Another 9.3% earned an associate degree and 20.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 670 1.7% -1.2%
High school diploma 11,426 29.2% -1.1%
College diploma 11,522 29.5% 3.0%
Associate degree 3,635 9.3% -0.6%
Bachelor's degree 8,177 20.9% 3.0%
Graduate degree 3,657 9.4% -2.4%
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 Buffalo County

How much people earn in Buffalo County

The average annual household income in Buffalo County was $94,897 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $75,911, reflecting a +1.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Buffalo County
$94,897/year
1.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Buffalo County
$75,911/year
1.8% year-over-year change

Buffalo County income by age

In Buffalo County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $86,047. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $93,998 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $42,659, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $54,043 in earnings. Overall, 90% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $42,659 8.4%
25 - 44 $86,047 2.0%
45 - 64 $93,998 4.9%
Over 65 $54,043 -4.3%
Above poverty level
42,950
Below poverty level
4,766
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 42,950 90% 1.8%
Below poverty level 4,766 10% -10.0%

Employment in Buffalo County

Workforce and job types in Buffalo County

The job market in Buffalo County is powered by 27,821 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.7% run their own businesses, 63.9% are employed by private companies, and 16.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
27,821
0.9% year-over-year change
White collar
21,221
Blue collar
6,600
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 21,221 76.3% 0.6%
Blue collar 6,600 23.7% 1.9%
Employer type
Self employees
10.7%
Private companies
63.9%
Governmental workers
16.3%
Not for profit companies
9.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,977 10.7% -4.0%
Private companies 17,772 63.9% 1.0%
Governmental workers 4,546 16.3% 4.3%
Not for profit companies 2,526 9.1% 0.4%
Unemployment rate
2.6%
-7.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Buffalo County stands at 2.6%, 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 Buffalo County

How people get around in Buffalo County

Commuting methods vary: 91.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.1% 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 25,143 91.8% -0.3%
Taxicab 12 0% 200.0%
Bus or trolleybus 48 0.2% 9.1%
Ferryboat 10 0% 100.0%
Bicycle 111 0.4% 85.0%
Walk 571 2.1% 13.1%
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 Buffalo County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
68812 642 256 $69,808 $78,936
68836 1,908 673 $86,806 $107,116
68840 2,624 1,051 $76,394 $89,534
68844 328 109 $67,303 $94,226
68845 20,536 8,561 $76,978 $101,104
68847 18,354 7,527 $73,818 $94,711
68849 1,385 0 $0 $0
68858 328 117 $82,083 $95,253
68861 138 60 $39,792 $60,453
68866 1,168 423 $94,792 $103,370

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FAQs about Buffalo County demographics 

What is the total population of Buffalo County?

Buffalo County has a total population of 50,579 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 +0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Buffalo County?

The gender ratio in Buffalo County is as follows:
  • 50.4% males (25,490 residents)
  • 49.6% females (25,089 residents)

What is the median age in Buffalo County?

The median age in Buffalo County is 35.1.

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

The age distribution in Buffalo County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.8% (9,521 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 18.4% (9,321 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.3% (12,787 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.9% (10,556 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.6% (8,394 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Buffalo County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Buffalo County is as follows:
  • White: 86.6% (43,775 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.9% (467 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (259 residents)
  • Asian: 1.6% (827 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (76 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.6% (2,812 residents)
  • Other: 4.7% (2,363 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.7% of the population in Buffalo County.

How many housing units are there in Buffalo County?

There are 21,286 housing units in Buffalo County, reflecting a +0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Buffalo County has a total of 19,984 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Buffalo County?

Buffalo County has a median household income of $75,911, representing a +1.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97.4% in Buffalo County, with a workforce of 27,821 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.3% (21,221 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.7% (6,600 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.7% (2,977 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.9% (17,772 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.3% (4,546 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.1% (2,526 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