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

Total population
5,498
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$66,270/yr
4.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,009
0.2% year-over-year change

Cherry County population

How many people live in Cherry County

Cherry County is home to 5,498 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.4% of Cherry County locals are male, and 48.6% are female.

Total population
5,498
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.4%
2,824
Female
48.6%
2,674
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,824 51.4% 0.0%
Female 2,674 48.6% 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 Cherry County is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.1% are children under 15, then 9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25% of the population, while another 23.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.1%
15 to 24
9%
25 to 44
25%
45 to 64
23.6%
Over 65
22.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,104 20.1% 5.8%
15 to 24 492 9% -13.1%
25 to 44 1,374 25% 7.2%
45 to 64 1,298 23.6% -5.5%
Over 65 1,230 22.4% 2.3%
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 Cherry County, 95.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 83.9% of locals are Caucasian, 1% are African American and 1.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2%
Non-citizens
2.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,258 95.6% -1.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 112 2% 64.7%
Non-citizens 128 2.3% 141.5%
Racial breakdown
White
83.9%
Black or African American
1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
5.2%
Asian
1.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.6%
Other
3.6%
Value Percent
White 4,613 83.9%
Black or African American 55 1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 286 5.2%
Asian 95 1.7%
Two or more races 253 4.6%
Other 196 3.6%

Households in Cherry County

A peek inside Cherry County households

Cherry County has 2,233 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.6% are families, while the remaining 36.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,233
0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
812
Family households
1,421
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 812 36.4% 12.3%
Family households 1,421 63.6% -5.6%
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 Cherry County

The housing landscape of Cherry County

Cherry County's housing consists of 3,009 units, with 81% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.2% 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 7.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,009
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,436 81%
1 unit, attached 36 1.2%
2 units 100 3.3%
3 or 4 units 12 0.4%
5 to 9 units 72 2.4%
10 to 19 units 54 1.8%
20 to 49 units 12 0.4%
50 or more units 68 2.3%
Mobile home 219 7.3%
Homes built since 2020
7
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Cherry County

In Cherry County, the median construction year is 1971. About 19.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 576 19.1% -1.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 271 9% 2.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 306 10.2% -7.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 319 10.6% -8.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 465 15.4% 17.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 237 7.9% -29.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 235 7.8% -20.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 410 13.6% 35.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 183 6.1% 24.5%
Built in 2020 or later 7 0.2% N/A
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.

Cherry County occupancy rates

Out of the 2,233 occupied housing units in Cherry County, 61.4% are owner-occupied, while 38.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 25.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,233
0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
863
Owner occupied
1,370
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 863 38.6% 1.9%
Owner occupied 1,370 61.4% -0.9%
Unoccupied housing units
25.8%
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.

Cherry County housing costs

Housing costs in Cherry County come to a median of $778 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $916.

Median housing costs per month
$778/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 Cherry County
$916/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 Cherry County

Cherry County education at a glance

About 34.8% of the population in Cherry County went to high school, while 27% pursued college studies. Another 11% earned an associate degree and 17.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 81 1.9% 50.0%
High school diploma 1,465 34.8% -0.4%
College diploma 1,137 27% 4.6%
Associate degree 465 11% -16.2%
Bachelor's degree 722 17.2% 2.7%
Graduate degree 339 8% 13.0%
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 Cherry County

How much people earn in Cherry County

The average annual household income in Cherry County was $80,876 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $66,270, reflecting a +4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Cherry County
$80,876/year
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Cherry County
$66,270/year
4.0% year-over-year change

Cherry County income by age

In Cherry County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $60,750. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $74,570 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $66,467, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $55,526 in earnings. Overall, 91.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $66,467 -2.3%
25 - 44 $60,750 -12.2%
45 - 64 $74,570 2.3%
Over 65 $55,526 9.7%
Above poverty level
4,942
Below poverty level
451
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 4,942 91.6% -0.8%
Below poverty level 451 8.4% 15.9%

Employment in Cherry County

Workforce and job types in Cherry County

The job market in Cherry County is powered by 2,918 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 23.9% run their own businesses, 57.3% are employed by private companies, and 13.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,918
-0.2% year-over-year change
White collar
2,056
Blue collar
862
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,056 70.5% -3.0%
Blue collar 862 29.5% 7.2%
Employer type
Self employees
23.9%
Private companies
57.3%
Governmental workers
13.7%
Not for profit companies
5.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 697 23.9% -0.3%
Private companies 1,671 57.3% 12.1%
Governmental workers 400 13.7% -21.4%
Not for profit companies 150 5.1% -33.3%
Unemployment rate
0.4%
0.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Cherry County stands at 0.4%, 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 Cherry County

How people get around in Cherry County

Commuting methods vary: 77.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 9.1% 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 2,188 77.8% -0.3%
Bus or trolleybus 2 0.1% 0.0%
Motorcycle 43 1.5% -21.8%
Bicycle 10 0.4% 0.0%
Walk 255 9.1% 33.5%
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 Cherry County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
69135 29 6 $0 $0
69152 743 359 $49,107 $66,433
69161 53 35 $36,583 $48,746
69166 603 294 $58,929 $68,225
69201 4,012 1,651 $62,101 $70,010
69211 201 89 $74,688 $120,496
69212 315 139 $0 $40,384
69216 221 70 $53,500 $65,797
69218 429 185 $78,672 $117,271
69219 40 22 $0 $222,873

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FAQs about Cherry County demographics 

What is the total population of Cherry County?

Cherry County has a total population of 5,498 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 +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Cherry County?

The gender ratio in Cherry County is as follows:
  • 51.4% males (2,824 residents)
  • 48.6% females (2,674 residents)

What is the median age in Cherry County?

The median age in Cherry County is 41.4.

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

The age distribution in Cherry County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.1% (1,104 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9% (492 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25% (1,374 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.6% (1,298 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.4% (1,230 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Cherry County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Cherry County is as follows:
  • White: 83.9% (4,613 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1% (55 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 5.2% (286 residents)
  • Asian: 1.7% (95 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.6% (253 residents)
  • Other: 3.6% (196 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.6% of the population in Cherry County.

How many housing units are there in Cherry County?

There are 3,009 housing units in Cherry County, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Cherry County has a total of 2,233 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Cherry County?

Cherry County has a median household income of $66,270, representing a +4.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 99.6% in Cherry County, with a workforce of 2,918 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.5% (2,056 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.5% (862 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 23.9% (697 residents)
  • Private companies: 57.3% (1,671 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.7% (400 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.1% (150 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