Chadron, NE demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
5,160
-0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,590/yr
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,456
0.8% year-over-year change

Chadron population

How many people live in Chadron

Chadron is home to 5,160 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.1% of Chadron locals are male, and 51.9% are female.

Total population
5,160
-0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.1%
2,481
Female
51.9%
2,679
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,481 48.1% 6.4%
Female 2,679 51.9% -6.8%
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 Chadron is 30, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.5% are children under 15, then 28% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.9% of the population, while another 18.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
30.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.5%
15 to 24
28%
25 to 44
23.9%
45 to 64
18.1%
Over 65
15.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 746 14.5% -5.0%
15 to 24 1,445 28% -10.7%
25 to 44 1,232 23.9% 3.9%
45 to 64 932 18.1% 6.0%
Over 65 805 15.6% 8.9%
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 Chadron, 98.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. As for race, 87.2% of locals are Caucasian, 0.7% are African American and 1.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.9%
Non-citizens
0%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,061 98.1% -1.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 98 1.9% 28.9%
Non-citizens 1 0% -83.3%
Racial breakdown
White
87.2%
Black or African American
0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
3.6%
Asian
1.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.7%
Other
0%
Value Percent
White 4,500 87.2%
Black or African American 38 0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 187 3.6%
Asian 89 1.7%
Two or more races 346 6.7%

Households in Chadron

A peek inside Chadron households

Chadron has 2,097 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 46.3% are families, while the remaining 53.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,097
2.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,127
Family households
970
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,127 53.7% 5.8%
Family households 970 46.3% -1.2%
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 Chadron

The housing landscape of Chadron

Chadron's housing consists of 2,456 units, with 72.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.9% 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 3.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,456
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,787 72.8%
1 unit, attached 47 1.9%
2 units 135 5.5%
3 or 4 units 201 8.2%
5 to 9 units 31 1.3%
10 to 19 units 15 0.6%
20 to 49 units 158 6.4%
Mobile home 82 3.3%
Homes built since 2020
15
-11.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Chadron

In Chadron, the median construction year is 1953. About 36% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 2.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 1.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 884 36% 9.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 232 9.4% 2.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 373 15.2% -17.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 192 7.8% 10.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 321 13.1% 13.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 238 9.7% -2.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 104 4.2% 10.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 59 2.4% -28.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 38 1.6% -34.5%
Built in 2020 or later 15 0.6% -11.8%
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.

Chadron occupancy rates

Out of the 2,097 occupied housing units in Chadron, 56.2% are owner-occupied, while 43.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 14.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,097
2.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
919
Owner occupied
1,178
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 919 43.8% 15.7%
Owner occupied 1,178 56.2% -6.0%
Unoccupied housing units
14.6%
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.

Chadron housing costs

Housing costs in Chadron come to a median of $923 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $881.

Median housing costs per month
$923/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 Chadron
$881/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 Chadron

Chadron education at a glance

About 24.4% of the population in Chadron went to high school, while 30.8% pursued college studies. Another 10.4% earned an associate degree and 18.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 14.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 51 1.2% -10.5%
High school diploma 1,033 24.4% -2.9%
College diploma 1,302 30.8% 13.3%
Associate degree 438 10.4% -14.1%
Bachelor's degree 792 18.7% -16.5%
Graduate degree 617 14.6% 17.5%
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 Chadron

How much people earn in Chadron

The average annual household income in Chadron was $70,693 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +9.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $54,590, reflecting a +1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Chadron
$70,693/year
9.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Chadron
$54,590/year
1.0% year-over-year change

Chadron income by age

In Chadron, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $94,716. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $50,417 overall. Overall, 86.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $94,716 39.7%
45 - 64 $50,417 -11.1%
Over 65 $49,706 -0.6%
Above poverty level
3,850
Below poverty level
588
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,850 86.8% -0.0%
Below poverty level 588 13.2% -5.2%

Average renter income in Chadron

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Chadron, their median household income was $38,440 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 27.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$38,440
Rent-to-income ratio
27.5%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Chadron

Workforce and job types in Chadron

The job market in Chadron is powered by 2,884 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 80.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 19.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10% run their own businesses, 39.6% are employed by private companies, and 38.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,884
0.6% year-over-year change
White collar
2,311
Blue collar
573
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,311 80.1% -0.3%
Blue collar 573 19.9% 4.6%
Employer type
Self employees
10%
Private companies
39.6%
Governmental workers
38.5%
Not for profit companies
11.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 287 10% 135.2%
Private companies 1,142 39.6% 1.7%
Governmental workers 1,111 38.5% -19.2%
Not for profit companies 344 11.9% 39.8%
Unemployment rate
1.8%
13.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Chadron stands at 1.8%, 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 Chadron

How people get around in Chadron

Commuting methods vary: 86.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 10.1% 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 2,479 86.5% 1.0%
Bicycle 11 0.4% 0.0%
Walk 289 10.1% 5.1%
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 Chadron by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
69337 6,466 2,710 $54,306 $74,342

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FAQs about Chadron demographics 

What is the total population of Chadron?

Chadron has a total population of 5,160 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 -0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Chadron?

The gender ratio in Chadron is as follows:
  • 48.1% males (2,481 residents)
  • 51.9% females (2,679 residents)

What is the median age in Chadron?

The median age in Chadron is 30.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Chadron?

The age distribution in Chadron is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.5% (746 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 28% (1,445 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.9% (1,232 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 18.1% (932 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.6% (805 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Chadron?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Chadron is as follows:
  • White: 87.2% (4,500 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.7% (38 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 3.6% (187 residents)
  • Asian: 1.7% (89 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.7% (346 residents)
  • Other: 0% (0 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.1% of the population in Chadron.

How many housing units are there in Chadron?

There are 2,456 housing units in Chadron, 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 Chadron and what is the average household size?

Chadron has a total of 2,097 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Chadron?

Chadron has a median household income of $54,590, representing a +1.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Chadron?

The employment rate is 98.2% in Chadron, with a workforce of 2,884 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 80.1% (2,311 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 19.9% (573 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10% (287 residents)
  • Private companies: 39.6% (1,142 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 38.5% (1,111 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.9% (344 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